Highlights
- One Young World is an annual summit that invites young adults from all over the world, who are working to accelerate social impact, to come together
- This year's summit focuses on conflict prevention, gender equality, oceans, ethical leadership and health
- During the four-day experience, Australia’s representative, Elvis Martin drew much inspiration
This year's One Young World summit is taking place at the Manchester Central Conference Centre, in the United Kingdom.
The global forum for young leaders focuses on conflict prevention, gender equality, oceans, ethical leadership and health.
The opening ceremony, held at Bridgewater Hall, featured a keynote address from Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, accompanied by the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry.
Markle spoke about her involvement with the summit, serving as a counsellor since 2014 and the changes in her life that expanded her worldview exponentially. She explained that the important work of the summit cannot wait for tomorrow.
Youth advocate Elvis Martin, who is representing Australia, agrees with that sentiment.
As part of his involvement at the summit, he shares his perspective on topics like mental health, international students, family and domestic violence, LGBTIQ+ rights and homelessness.
Martin spoke to SBS Hindi about his experience at the event and how it is a "big thing" to attend as a returning ambassador.
His returning ambassador's address urges people to never question their ability to make a positive difference in the world.
You don't need a language to think, you don't need a particular accent to be creative, you can just be you and change the world for the better.Elvis Martin
This year, 202 countries including island and territory regions, are participating in the summit.
Elvis Martin attends the Summit as part of the latest cohort of One Young World peace ambassadors. Supplied by Elvis Martin
“One Young World Summit is the only platform that gathers so many international countries including regions that are currently in conflict and do not participate in other events. So being part of that network and that platform is definitely an honour for me,” Martin says.
Discussing international students on a global stage is important to Martin who came to Australia in that capacity 10 years ago.
He says his personal experiences of difficulty endured as a student enhance his ability to understand what others go through, though maintains that he believes Australia is the best country for international students.
I know international students had a lot of problems during and before Covid but we have a new [federal] government and they have new policies and a new vision for international students.Elvis Martin
He found many inspiring moments during the summit, however, his highlight was the "heartfelt" address from the representative from Ukraine who spoke on the challenges and hardships faced by people from the country.
He was particularly touched when the Russian speaker stood up and applauded the Ukrainian representative when she finished her speech.
“Usually, that does not happen when there is a high conflict like that."
Martin went on to discuss that his first speech during the summit focussed on mental health and his returning ambassador address which would allow him to share the story of his life and achievements and how he has turned his scars into strengths.
Touching base on his personal struggles when he arrived in Australia as an international student, Martin shared how he went through depression and anxiety and had no one to speak to about his problems.
He even reached a point where he wanted to take his own life.
“No one should have to wait to reach that point before they get support."
He explained how experiences like this as well as exposure to domestic violence, homelessness and racism went on to motivate him to work in those fields.
Elvis speaks about his life, work and achievements at the One Young World Summit 2022 . Supplied by Elvis Martin
Besides being involved in multiple boards and organisations, including the Victorian Anti-racism Taskforce and the Victorian Government’s LGBTIQ+ Taskforce, Martin co-founded the Cohealth Youth Action Council for people experiencing mental health challenges.
That also prompts his offer to help and support anyone who needs help through his social media profile.
He is open to assisting people with referral letters, giving information on the availability of support and services and how to be involved in any sector like mental health, immigration, housing, domestic violence, students or LGBTQI+ communities.
“I am more than happy for people to reach out and I am happy to be that information booth,” Martin says.
“Remember though that I am not a migration agent,” he added with a laugh.
Readers seeking support can contact Lifeline crisis support on 13 11 14, Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467 and Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 (for young people aged 5 to 25).
