It's a wrap! Youth Media Forward concludes its first year
Over the past year, thirty youth aged 15-17 based in Guadalajara, Los Angeles, Toronto and New York New Jersey have been reporting on the impacts of sports in their lives, neighborhoods and beyond.
As the first cohort of Generation 2026: Youth Media Forward closes it is a good moment to pause and celebrate their achievements so far.
The young journalists and creators have interviewed coaches and athletes, and shared their own experiences of the highs and lows of sports - from cricket to kendo, ballet to basketball, soccer to wrestling.
“A major skill I’ve strengthened through Youth Media Forward is interviewing.”
They have explored ways that sports infrastructure and financial models shape who does and who does not have access to opportunities. And as their cities prepare to host the 2026 World Cup they have lifted up the huge potential of the event as well as the risks that have to be managed for workers, local populations and fans.
Participants strengthened media skills and connected with each other through four virtual sessions with professionals: “Whose Story?”, “Sports, our neighborhoods and cities”, “Sports and accountability” and “The future of sports media”. In their host cities, they visited studios and met with practicing journalists, learning about “reporting without harm”, developing story ideas, and careers in journalism.
At times of growing division and concerns about the future, Youth Media Forward is creating space for youth to share stories that are important to them and to connect across boundaries and borders.
“I loved getting to meet new people from the different host cities. As a high school student, I don’t get many opportunities to interact with students from different states.”
“Previously, I was a little bit afraid to speak up and talk to people that I don't know but through this initiative, I have improved that dramatically.”
In July 2026, Canada, the United States and Mexico will host 48 competing teams in the FIFA World Cup. As we prepare for the second year of the program we look forward to deepening and expanding its impact, with sports storytelling as a powerful arena for social change.
“A big thank you for creating a space where youth voices are actually heard and valued. It’s rare, and it means a lot.”
Youth Media Forward is part of the Centre for Sport and Human Rights’ “Generation 2026” program, advancing safer and youth inclusive sports. Find out more about the program here.
Read, listen to and share the Youth Media Forward participants’ stories here!