Youth for Human Rights International Celebrates 25 Years of Global Impact with Washington, DC Leadership Conference During World Educational Tour 2026
The Washington, DC, chapter of Youth for Human Rights International was honored to host the Founder of Youth for Human Rights, Dr. Mary Shuttleworth
WASHINGTON, DC, March 12, 2026 -- Marking 25 years of advancing human rights education worldwide, more than 150 delegates, diplomats, veterans, attorneys, nonprofit executives, and civic leaders gathered on Capitol Hill for the launch of the World Educational Tour 2026 with Youth for Human Rights International. The Washington, DC, conference reaffirmed education as a practical tool for policy engagement and community protection.
The two-day conference highlighted actionable solutions, lived experience, and cross-sector collaboration to advance human dignity. Professionals working on the front lines of human rights education, human trafficking prevention, veterans' advocacy, and community protection strengthened partnerships designed to create measurable, prevention-focused impact.
Hosted in strategic partnership between Youth for Human Rights International and the U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights (USIDHR), the conference reinforced Washington, DC, as a vital hub for education-driven civic leadership.
"I have witnessed firsthand the power of education-based advocacy. Whether through school seminars, community engagement initiatives, partnerships with civic organizations, or direct dialogue with policymakers, we have seen how knowledge creates confidence—and confidence creates action." — Azhar Haq, Executive Director, Youth for Human Rights DC
The opening session was held inside the United States Congress, placing dialogue within the institution where national policy is shaped. The program featured three focused panels addressing human rights leadership on the global stage, human trafficking prevention strategy, and veterans' rights protections.
Speakers included Azhar Haq of Youth for Human Rights DC, who provided the welcome address, Porscha Lee Taylor, former Miss Africa USA and U.S. Delegate at the UN Human Rights Summit hosted annually by Youth for Human Rights International; Hollie Nadel of 3Strands Global Foundation; Joy Craig of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States; and Blanquita Cullum, co-founder of Voices Against Trafficking. Their contributions reflected a shared commitment to advancing practical, solution-oriented initiatives.
On the second day, delegates participated in a Human Rights Advocacy and Public Engagement Training led by Dr. Isabelle Vladoiu, Founder of USIDHR and DC Human Rights Commissioner, emphasizing legislative literacy, strategic mobilization, and responsible civic engagement. Anna Sineva, Director of Government Relations for the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, presented on effective congressional engagement and sustaining long-term institutional dialogue.
Throughout the conference, professionals from across the United States, alongside select international delegates, engaged in structured networking and partnership development. The gathering united experienced leaders committed not only to dialogue, but to disciplined implementation.
The conference concluded with a coordinated human rights walk to the White House, symbolizing peaceful civic participation and continued dedication to national awareness-building. The walk reinforced the principle that education must translate into visible, responsible action.
The Washington, DC, conference marked the first stop of the World Educational Tour 2026 and a significant milestone as Youth for Human Rights International celebrates 25 years of global impact.
Founded in 2001 by Dr. Mary Shuttleworth, the organization was established on the conviction that education reduces discrimination and builds lasting peace. Born and raised under Apartheid in South Africa, Dr. Shuttleworth committed her life to expanding access to human rights education across six continents and more than 90 nations.
"Human rights education builds bridges to peace. Don't just believe in peace — build it!" — Dr. Mary Shuttleworth, Founder and President, Youth for Human Rights International
The Youth for Human Rights DC Chapter leadership team includes Azhar Haq, Executive Director of Youth for Human Rights DC; Beth Akiyama, Executive Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office; and Porscha Taylor, Nation's Capitol Chapter President.
As part of this 25th anniversary year, Youth for Human Rights International will also participate in the 20th International Human Rights Summit at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, further advancing its global education mission and youth leadership development efforts.
For more information or to get involved, visit https://www.youthforhumanrights.org.
About Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI)
Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI) is a nonprofit organization with chapters around the world. Its mission is to teach youth about human rights, specifically the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and inspire them to become valuable advocates for tolerance, respect and peace. YHRI teaches human rights education both in the classroom and in nontraditional educational settings such as through international summits, art series, concerts, and other interactive community events.
To learn more go to https://www.youthforhumanrights.org.
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