Post by Pratima T. Narayan

It was special to return to the United Nations last week to support former colleagues and join a conversation about youth mental health, sports, and FIFA World Cup 2026™ - Canada, Mexico and the United States. 🇺🇳 ⚽️ For young people navigating conflict, displacement, or uncertainty, healing doesn't always begin with a complicated policy solution. A game on the field or an afternoon in an art studio can spark confidence, purpose, leadership, lifelong friendships, and hope for a different future. As someone who has spent much of my career working in human rights, it was a reminder that rights aren't only protected through laws and institutions but realized every day in communities where young people feel safe, included, and able to thrive. It was also inspiring to hear FIFA President Gianni Infantino speak about football's ability to bring people together across borders. At a time when the world could use a little more understanding and connection, it felt like a timely reminder of what sport can do. Looking forward to celebrating the world's game today! 🇪🇸🇦🇷 One world. One game. One goal... One hope. 🫶🌎✨ #YouthMentalHealth #UnitedNations #FIFAWorldCup #HumanRights