Nadia Sarkis, a 23-year-old law student at the University of Costa Rica received the Outstanding Youth Delegate Award at the 29th Session of the AFS Youth Assembly, which took place on August 16-18, 2024 in New York City. Through her work, Nadia aims to contribute to creating an inclusive, sustainable, and just future. Her commitment to social progress and her efforts to strengthen the intersection between business and social responsibility underscore her dedication to making a positive impact both in Costa Rica and beyond.
Upon accepting the Award, Nadia addressed her fellow Delegates at the AFS Youth Assembly by saying, “I call upon you to continue pushing boundaries, forging partnerships, and advocating for change. Let’s not just dream of a better world—let’s work towards it with determination and unity. Together, we can build a future where dignity is respected, communities thrive, and every goal is within reach.”
Currently in her fourth year of legal studies, Nadia works as a legal assistant with a focus on corporate law. Her experience spans advising national and multinational companies and collaborating with various civil associations to advance corporate social responsibility and sustainable practices.
Nadia is an active member of Young Leaders Costa Rica, an NGO focused on fostering leadership among young Costa Ricans. She leads the project for the “Clinic + Humanos”. This initiative provides free medical care to vulnerable populations in San José, including the homeless, migrants, and people in poverty.
Her background in association law has enabled her to collaborate with various national organizations dedicated to social aid, sustainable development, health, and education, all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Her passion lies in technological innovation, equitable access to health and education, and advising private companies to enhance national development.
Find out more in our interview with Nadia:
What does the Outstanding Youth Delegate Award mean for you?
Receiving this award represents not just a personal achievement but it is also a reflection of the collective effort and support of everyone who has been part of Young Leaders Costa Rica. This recognition validates the hard work and dedication we have put into our various projects, and it is a reminder of the positive impact we can make when we are passionate and committed. More than anything, it motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to use this platform to inspire others to get involved in valuable initiatives.
What did you enjoy most at the AFS Youth Assembly this year?
The highlight of the AFS Youth Assembly for me was the opportunity to engage with such a diverse and dynamic group of young leaders from around the world. The workshops and discussions were incredibly insightful, offering new perspectives on global issues and innovative solutions. I particularly enjoyed the interactive sessions where we could brainstorm and collaborate on real-world problems. It was inspiring to see the passion and creativity of my peers and to work together on projects that have the potential to drive meaningful change. The sense of community and the exchange of ideas made this experience truly unforgettable.
What advice would you give to young people worldwide who are looking to make a difference in their communities?
To young people who are eager to make a difference, my advice is to start small but think big. Begin by identifying a cause or issue you are passionate about and look for ways you can contribute locally. Sometimes, the most impactful changes start with simple actions from your daily activities. Look for mentoring in experienced people and collaborate with others who share your vision; diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions. But mainly, prioritize learning and growing, this implies keeping an open mind to accept all lessons that come your way. Identifying issues is easy, however the more we learn and engage with different viewpoints, the more effective we’ll be in creating solutions.