International Youth Alliances for Peace (IYAP) is a youth-led organization founded on November 21, 2013, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. IYAP believes young people are vital to community development, possessing energy, creativity, and leadership potential. We facilitate platforms between youth and stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector, through various initiatives.
IYAP was founded by Mr. Thirukumar Premakumar with six individuals, aiming to empower youth to lead projects addressing urgent global issues.
Today, IYAP has grown into a structured organization, proud of our commitment to volunteerism and dedicated volunteers. This dedication has made us one of the leading youth-led organizations in the country.
Our goal is to see young people in leadership roles, supported by their communities, civil society, government, and businesses. Each year, we train 500 to 1,000 young leaders, providing support for community development initiatives, engaging thousands of youths across the country.
The mission of the International Youth Alliance for Peace (IYAP) is to empower young people to become leaders in promoting peace, democracy, and social cohesion. Through advocacy, education, and innovative programs, we aim to foster active citizenship, inclusivity, and positive change in communities worldwide.
A world embracing mutual understanding & respect
Since its founding in 2013, the International Youth Alliance for Peace (IYAP) has grown from a small vision to a powerful movement that empowers young people to lead change. From uniting over 1,000 youth on a national stage in 2015 to expanding across South Asia, IYAP has fostered inclusive programs, created platforms for disabled youth, and built strong communities in 24 districts. Through innovative internships, leadership training, and youth-led research, IYAP has helped thousands of young people take control of their futures. Celebrating a decade of impact in 2023, IYAP continues to inspire and uplift youth across borders.
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International Youth Alliance for Peace (IYAP) was founded on November 21, 2013, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, as a youth-focused, volunteer-driven, and inclusive organization. We engage with young people aged 16 to 35, believing in their potential as key drivers of community development and positive change. Through various youth-centered initiatives, we connect these young leaders with stakeholders from the government, civil society, and the private sector.
Founded by Mr. Thirukumar Premakumar, IYAP began with a vision shared by six committed individuals who wanted to create a platform for youth to actively address global challenges. Today, IYAP stands as a leading youth-focused organization, grounded in respect and inclusivity. We are committed to a culture where every voice is valued and acknowledged.
Our volunteer-driven approach involves continuous training for young people, preparing them for leadership roles within their communities. Annually, we train and support 500 to 1,000 young leaders, helping them spearhead community development projects that engage thousands of youths across Sri Lanka. Our goal is to foster inclusive leadership and empower young people to tackle global issues with the support of their communities, government, and businesses.
IYAP is founded by Mr. Thirukumar Premakumar with a vision to empower and develop young people as decision-makers, ensuring they have a voice in shaping their future.
On International Peace Day, IYAP gathered over 1,000 young people from 22 districts for the 'One Nation, One Youth' event, becoming a national partner for Youth, Peace, and Security (UNSCR 2250).
IYAP announces its South Asia expansion and launches IYAP Bangladesh.
Focused work begins in 14 districts, and IYAP inducts an all-women board in the Pakistan IYAP Team.
IYAP launches its Interfaith Program, introduces sign language as part of its inclusive approach, and establishes the Ability Forum to unite disabled youth and organizations.
IYAP reaches 24 districts with 2,500 volunteers actively involved.
Operations expand to Nepal and Afghanistan.
The SYA program launches, offering 280 full-time internships across 9 provinces and 14 districts, in partnership with over 140 organizations, to combat youth unemployment and advocate for youth inclusion and policy.
IYAP introduces the Active Youth Program, offering experiential courses in Democracy, Leadership, Media, and Gender, and publishes youth-led research from 18 districts.
IYAP celebrates 10 years of impact, reaching over 100,000 young people directly and indirectly across Sri Lanka.
Learn about the structure of IYAP and how we empower youth leaders worldwide.
Hear what our volunteers and participants have to say about their experience with IYAP.