On Day 3 of the Global Learning Forum 2026, conversations turned to power, governance and advocacy – with adolescents continuing to lead the way.
The day opened with a focus on how young people shape decisions in their cities.
In the Making Space for Our Views session, adolescents from Ghana and Vietnam shared their experiences of influencing urban spaces – not as symbolic participants, but as active partners in city-making. Their stories sparked thoughtful cross-country discussions on trust, participation and what it takes for systems to genuinely open up to youth voices.
This was followed by the Cities That Listen session, where projects from Ecuador, Vietnam and Senegal explored how city institutions respond to adolescent advocacy. Discussions highlighted both progress and remaining gaps, offering honest reflections on how cities can become more responsive and inclusive.
Advocacy took centre stage in the afternoon. Participants heard a youth-led advocacy journey from ACT Indore (India), before taking part in a Gallery Walk showcasing photos, quotes and messages from projects across the HCA network. Together, these moments made learning visible, shared and grounded in real experience.
The day also featured a Youth-Led Film and Story Showcase, where adolescents used film and storytelling as tools for expression and influence, bringing local realities into the Forum space.
As the day drew to a close, key reflections were captured on the Learning Wall, with the evening set to end on a lighter note through a World Knowledge Quiz – blending learning, connection and shared curiosity.
Three days into the Forum, conversations are growing deeper, more confident and more connected, setting the stage for the days ahead!
