In a world obsessed with views and likes, real impact isn’t about how many people are watching. It’s about what they do afterward, one small action at a time.
This is a core belief of YouthTopia, a global youth movement that channels its energy into tangible action. On a recent episode of Compassiviste Dialogues, we had the privilege of speaking with two of its passionate leaders, Lily Lim and Freya Hore. They shared how YouthTopia empowers young people by turning their compassion and passion into a clear purpose.
We released this conversation to celebrate International Youth Day. The lessons are timeless, reaching far beyond a single day on the calendar.
Why This Conversation Matters
Gen Z is uniquely aware, engaged, and unwilling to wait for permission to act. They’re leading by example, showing us that change doesn't have to be complicated or centralized. It can start with a single spark—your spark. YouthTopia exists to help answer the question young people everywhere are asking: “How can I do what you do?”
The truth is that every one of us, no matter our age, can learn from their courage.
The Spark Behind a Movement
What began as a dream to accelerate positive change has become a thriving global community. Today, YouthTopia engages over 15,000 young people across 70 countries through hundreds of programs, from global storytelling initiatives to international film screenings.
It's proof that when young people are given the tools, the encouragement, and the belief that their voice matters, they don't just dream…they act.
Key Lessons from YouthTopia
What Matters More: Views or Movements?
Lily and Freya reminded us that 10 million views can be exciting. But it’s the student-led initiative, the movement that grows roots in a community, that genuinely changes the world. Real impact isn’t measured in fleeting metrics; instead, it's found in the lives touched and the downstream effects created.
How a Small Youth Team Sparked a Global Network
YouthTopia's "Circle of Youth" is a living example of this. Like a tree, the team's passion has branched outward, inspiring many others to take action in their own corners of the world. Change grows when we empower others, not just by amplifying the loudest voices.
Redefining What It Means to Create Change
Here’s one of the most powerful reminders: you don’t have to protest in the streets or write legislation to make a difference. Maybe you’re a storyteller, a musician, a researcher, or a teacher. As Freya said, “Look inward. Discover what you love. That’s where your power lies.” Change isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s deeply personal, and that’s why it’s so powerful.
Balancing Impact with Joy
Even as they work on some of the world’s biggest challenges, Lily and Freya reminded us not to lose sight of joy. Laughter, play, and living fully aren’t distractions from activism—they’re what fuel it. Joy sustains the work and makes it contagious.
Watch & Reflect
🎥 Watch the full Compassiviste Dialogues episode with YouthTopia here.
As you listen, ask yourself:
What seed of change can you plant today?
How can you align your passions with action?
Compassion in action is born from authenticity, strengthened by community, and fueled by the courage to keep showing up.
Today’s youth are reminding us that the future isn’t something to wait for. It’s something we build together, right now.
With compassion,
The Compassiviste Team
