Hyderabad, India – August 11, 2025: The youth of South Asia are gearing up to present their daring and inspiring visions for the future of the region at the 1st Southasian Commemoration of The Doyens of Peace, scheduled to be streamed live on YouTube on August 12, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon IST.
The event, hosted under the banner of Doyens of Peace, is a tribute to three towering champions of peace—Admiral L. Ramdas (India), Karamat Ali (Pakistan), and Tapan Bose (India)—who dedicated their lives to fostering harmony, cooperation, and mutual understanding across South Asia’s diverse nations.
A Youth-Driven Challenge with a Visionary Twist
The central theme of the commemoration is “My Vision for Southasia if I am the President / Prime Minister of my Country”. The contest saw 198 young participants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, aged between 15 and 25, submit 2- to 5-minute videos showcasing innovative and transformative blueprints for the region’s future.
From sustainable economic models to cross-border cultural exchanges, and from climate resilience strategies to inclusive governance reforms, the entries offer fresh, unfiltered, and thought-provoking perspectives on what a united and thriving South Asia could look like.
The top two videos from each country—16 in total—will be live-casted during the event, giving audiences a rare opportunity to witness the hopes, priorities, and creativity of the region’s next generation of leaders.
Panel of Young Leaders to Debate the Way Forward
Following the video showcase, a panel discussion will bring together eight dynamic youth under the age of 30, one from each South Asian country, to deliberate on the visions presented in the videos and chart out possible steps toward turning these dreams into reality.
This cross-border youth dialogue aims to spark collaboration over competition and foster mutual trust, breaking down stereotypes and promoting the idea that peace and development in South Asia are shared responsibilities.
Why This Matters for South Asia’s Future
South Asia, home to over 1.8 billion people, faces complex challenges—from poverty and climate change to political instability and social divisions. Yet, it is also a region of immense potential, rich cultural heritage, and youthful energy. Over 60% of the population is under 30, making platforms like this not just relevant, but essential, for shaping policies and relationships that will define the region’s future.
“These young voices are not bound by the baggage of the past—they dare to imagine a South Asia that works for everyone,” said Mazher Hussain, Executive Director of COVA (Confederation of Voluntary Associations), the Hyderabad-based organization coordinating the event.
Event Details
-
Date: August 12, 2025
-
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 noon IST
-
YouTube Live Link: https://youtube.com/live/hjb5ijczXmc
-
Alternate Access: Search “Doyens of Peace” on YouTube
-
Website: www.peacedoyens.org
-
Contact Email: peacedoyepnssouthasia@gmail.com
The Doyens of Peace initiative hopes to inspire governments, civil society organizations, and individuals across the eight countries to support youth-led peacebuilding and development efforts, turning vision into action.
“South Asia’s young people hold the keys to its peace and prosperity. This event is a reminder that their dreams can—and must—be part of our policy roadmaps,” added Mazher Hussain.