Impact Points:
- Founder of Afghan Youth Ambassadors for Peace Organization (AYAPO): Leading grassroots efforts to promote sustainable peace and gender equality in Afghanistan.
- Global Advocate and Speaker: Recognized by the UN as a Young Leader for the SDGs, with speaking engagements in over 22 countries.
- Champion for Women and Youth: Trained nearly 100 young girls on leadership and gender equality, and advises governments on strategies to empower women and girls globally.
Heela Yoon, a 24-year-old Afghan refugee currently residing in the United Kingdom, is a formidable force in the realms of peacebuilding and gender equality. As the founder and executive director of the Afghan Youth Ambassadors for Peace Organization (AYAPO), she has dedicated her life to creating a peaceful and just Afghanistan through youth-led initiatives and advocacy.
A Journey of Purpose and Resilience
Born in Afghanistan, Heela’s journey has been one marked by purpose and resilience. As a first-generation refugee and a vocal advocate for climate action and mental health, she reflects: “My journey has been one of purpose, resilience, and impact.” With over five years of experience in communications and marketing for leading international NGOs, she has championed initiatives that amplify brand visibility and drive meaningful engagement on an international scale, impacting lives across countries like Myanmar, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and beyond.
Founding AYAPO: Fostering Peace and Gender Equality
Heela founded AYAPO, a grassroots NGO working in the eastern provinces of Afghanistan, focusing on UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 on Women, Peace, and Security, and 2250 on Youth, Peace, and Security. Through AYAPO, she has:
- Trained nearly 100 young girls in Nangarhar, Laghman, and Kabul on gender equality and leadership.
- Launched transformative programs that foster peace and promote gender equality, directly aiding over 7,500 families.
- Engaged religious and tribal leaders through community peacebuilding dialogues to advocate for Afghan girls’ education.
Global Advocacy and Recognition
Heela’s influence extends beyond Afghanistan. She serves as an External Board Member for the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), advising the UK government on strategies for empowering women and girls globally. Recognized by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe as a prominent peacebuilder, she also serves as a One Young World Ambassador, advocating for change and cooperation worldwide.
In 2022, Heela was appointed as a United Nations Young Leader for the Sustainable Development Goals, a testament to her significant contributions to peace and community welfare. She is also part of the UN Women Asia Pacific 30 for 2030 Youth Leadership Network.
A Voice on the Global Stage
Heela has shared her insights and experiences in over 22 countries, speaking alongside global leaders and changemakers. “My work has led me to speak in over 22 countries, sharing stages with global leaders and change-makers,” she notes. Her advocacy has been featured on international platforms like Al Jazeera and the BBC, bringing attention to critical issues such as peacebuilding, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
Continuing Education and Fellowships
Supported by prestigious Chevening and Fulbright Scholarships, Heela continues to advance her knowledge and impact. She has been honored as a recipient of the Cora Weiss Peacebuilding Fellowship and recognized as a young emerging peacemaker by the Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice. Her commitment to learning is evident in her roles:
- Research Consultant with Amnesty International, focusing on the human rights situation in Afghanistan.
- Trainee with Oxfam Great Britain.
- Afghan Coordinator for the International Parliamentary Network for Education.
A Call for Collaboration
Heela’s passion for making a real difference is contagious. She invites others to join her in collaborative efforts: “Let’s connect and explore how we can collaborate on initiatives that make a real difference. Whether over a cup of coffee or a skydiving adventure, I’m all in for a conversation that sparks action.”
Conclusion
Heela Yoon embodies the spirit of resilience, leadership, and global citizenship. Her dedication to empowering youth, advocating for peace, and promoting gender equality continues to inspire many around the world. As she navigates her journey from a refugee to a global advocate, Heela remains steadfast in her mission to create meaningful change and encourages others to join her in these transformative efforts.
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