In August 2025, more than 500 rangatahi from over 80 countries gathered in New York. Under the banner of ‘Defying Adversity: Empowering Young Global Citizens to Lead’ they engaged in workshops, panel discussions, networked and celebrated cultural diversity.
Among them, two representatives from AFS NZ; each contributing to the event in a different way, both gaining as much as they gave.
Event Logistics Team: Gypsy-Rose Koteka (Returnee NZ to Sweden)
“E ngā reo, e ngā mana, e ngā karangaranga maha, tēnā rā tātou katoa.
At the AFS Youth Assembly in New York City 2025, I was fortunate to be a part of the Logistics Team, which meant being involved in almost every behind the scenes aspect of the conference. From setting up rooms and preparing materials to packing down at the end of each day, we played a key role in keeping everything running smoothly. A big part of my role was simply being present, helping out wherever needed, looking after people, and stepping in with a hand when any issues came up.
Being part of this team gave me a new appreciation of what goes into creating an international conference, and it was exciting to see how our work contributed to the experience for everyone attending. What I enjoyed most was the fun and energy of working alongside such a diverse group of AFS team members and volunteers from all over the world.
The assembly was also a special opportunity for me to represent Aotearoa and share my Māori culture, while connecting with inspiring young people from many different countries. It was a meaningful experience that combined hard work with a lot of laughter, teamwork, and the chance to build friendships that went beyond the event itself.
Mauri Ora!”
Workshop Facilitator: Carla Rey Vasquez (Returnee Colombia to NZ, former AFS NZ and AFS International staff member)
“Attending the AFS Youth Assembly in New York City was a full-circle moment — equal parts professional growth and personal joy. It put me right at the center of a gathering where young leaders from over 80 countries came together to “defy adversity” and imagine new ways forward. From sitting at the UN headquarters for the opening plenary, to walking into NYU’s big halls, to the intimate workshops on offer, I got to witness the energy, passion, and creativity of changemakers who are not just talking about solutions but actively building them. I was impressed with the mahi of organisations like GirlUP, OkToday and Climate Cardinals. The conversations reminded me why I care so deeply about creating spaces where young people can lead with empathy, resilience, and vision.
My biggest takeaway? That inspiration isn’t just found in keynotes or panels, but in the connections, laughter, and small exchanges that shift how you see the world.
In the words of the closing speaker, 2025 National Youth Poet Laureate of the United States Evan Wang: “This is being madly in love with the world – seeing yourself reflected in everything and vice versa, thinking every aspect of life is reaching toward you like a cloud of hands. You see, with such clarity, the aesthetics of our living. As young people, this is our power: we care for more than we have control of.”
I returned home deeply grateful, more determined than ever to support young people in growing their voices and their impact and carrying a little bit of NYC’s fire in my heart.”
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Gypsy-Rose and Carla for giving so generously to the Youth Assembly and for being wonderful ambassadors for Aotearoa at this global event.
If you will be between the ages of 18 and 35 next August, watch out for opportunities to attend the AFS Youth Assembly 2026!
youthassembly.org