Youth Nexus Programme 2026 Inaugural Conference Venue: Auditorium, American University of Iraq – Baghdad (AUIB) Organised by: Ishtar Center for Democracy Support (ICDS) In Partnership with: British Council and the American University of Iraq – Baghdad (AUIB) Second Session: Inspiring Youth Success Stories The second session, titled "Inspiring Youth Success Stories," highlighted the remarkable journeys of young Iraqis who transformed challenges and adversity into inspiring achievements. Four outstanding young individuals took the stage to share their personal experiences, accomplishments, and lessons learned, receiving enthusiastic recognition and appreciation from the audience. Featured Speakers 1. Rafah Hassan – Baghdad A lecturer in the Department of Computer Engineering and founder of Tumooh IT Magazine, an initiative dedicated to simplifying technical concepts, promoting digital literacy, and making technology more accessible to the wider community. 2. Mohammed Ya'rub – Anbar Founder of the Iraqi Print Archive, an initiative dedicated to preserving Iraq’s printed heritage and safeguarding its national memory. The archive documents millions of pages covering a wide range of subjects, preserving historical publications dating from the 19th century to the present day. 3. Ihab Haider – Sinjar, Nineveh A young Yazidi who experienced the hardships of displacement and life in camps. He is the founder of Bork Trading Office, a writer specialising in behavioural and cognitive neuroscience, and the author of Healing Through Solitude. 4. Murtadha Hadi – Najaf An artist, activist, and dedicated volunteer with a disability who has participated in numerous humanitarian initiatives and international conferences. He holds a Master’s degree in English Linguistics from the University of Kufa and is currently pursuing religious studies at the Islamic Seminary in Najaf. Attendance and Participation The inaugural conference brought together a diverse group of young men and women actively engaged in their communities from various governorates across Iraq. The event also welcomed government officials, parliamentarians, political leaders, and policymakers, alongside ambassadors and representatives of diplomatic missions operating in Iraq. Researchers, academics, journalists, and other stakeholders interested in youth engagement and empowerment were also in attendance, reflecting the broad institutional and community engagement surrounding the launch of Youth Nexus in Iraq.
On the ground
