![youth-eng](https://ird.global/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/youth-eng.jpg)
Increasing investment in young people is key. As shapers and leaders of our global future, they pave the way for the development of healthier generations. The ability of young people to connect and counsel each other allows them to share and scale their own solutions. The youth engagement program at IRD is at the forefront of educating and empowering adolescents,young adults and at-risk populations.
IRD provides a safe space to develop leadership and other life skills and then connects them to existing programs so their entire community can benefit from these young leaders.
United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Population Division (2013). World Population Prospects: The 2012 Revision, Highlights and Advance Tables. Working Paper No. ESA/P/WP.228.