GYP students joined Austrian Space Forum experts for an interactive introduction to Mars analog missions, spacesuit technology, astronaut training, and youth opportunities.
Global Youth Philanthropy’s Chapter of the Mars Society and the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF) co-hosted “Live Mars Mission Simulation for Youth,” a virtual educational event introducing students to the science, technology, and teamwork behind Mars analog missions.
The event was hosted by GYP student leader David Wang and Manfred Xirinachs, president of the Mars Society Costa Rica Chapter. Speakers from the Austrian Space Forum included Reinhard Tlustos, Willibald Stumptner, Guillaume Thirion, and analog astronaut Olivia Dresen. Ron Storie, Director of Chapters and Membership for the Mars Society, also joined the program.
Simulating Mars on Earth
Mars analog missions use locations on Earth to recreate some of the conditions and operational challenges that future astronauts may face on Mars. Researchers use these missions to test equipment, scientific procedures, communication systems, crew cooperation, and emergency responses.
The Austrian Space Forum has nearly three decades of experience in space research and education. Its teams have conducted more than 14 analog missions in deserts, glaciers, mountains, caves, and crater-like environments.
Unlike organizations with permanent analog stations, OeWF travels to different locations for its missions. This allows researchers to examine a variety of Mars-like landscapes while involving local scientists, students, and organizations.
One distinctive feature of OeWF missions is a simulated ten-minute communication delay in each direction between the field crew and the Mission Support Center. Because astronauts on Mars cannot receive immediate instructions from Earth, they must be able to make decisions independently.
The Mission Support Center brings together flight directors, scientists, medical experts, psychologists, communications officers, information-technology specialists, and media teams. The presentation showed students that Mars exploration requires contributions from many professions—not only astronauts and engineers.
Training as an Analog Astronaut
Olivia Dresen shared her experience joining OeWF’s 2026 Analog Astronaut Corps. Her background includes physics, aerospace engineering, biology, and research into the effects of space radiation on the brain.
OeWF’s selection process included interviews, medical evaluations, physical-fitness tests, teamwork exercises, rover operations, and engineering challenges. Six candidates were ultimately selected from approximately 100 applicants.
Their training covered planetary science, mission operations, radio communication, first aid, firefighting, engineering, physical conditioning, and spacesuit operations.
A highlight of Dresen’s presentation was the approximately 50-kilogram Aouda spacesuit simulator. Its systems monitor temperature, oxygen, carbon dioxide, communications, and the astronaut’s physical condition. An internal exoskeleton also makes movement more difficult, helping reproduce some of the challenges of working in a pressurized spacesuit.
Dresen described a spacesuit as a “one-person spacecraft.” Even simple activities—such as handling tools, folding paper, or tying shoelaces—become difficult while wearing three layers of gloves.
Opportunities for Young People
During the discussion, students asked what qualities are needed to become an analog astronaut. Dresen emphasized curiosity, adaptability, teamwork, and a willingness to leave one’s comfort zone. Young people do not necessarily need advanced qualifications to begin exploring analog-mission opportunities.
Manfred Xirinachs also shared his experience participating in a five-day analog mission in Brazil at age 19. He encouraged students, including those outside traditional STEM fields, to apply for programs and find ways to contribute.
OeWF has previously supported analog missions for high school students. Young adults can also become involved through research, education, communications, media, and Mission Support Center activities.
The event supported GYP’s plan to develop the Youth Space Analog Hub, which will include a worldwide analog directory and a youth-led media desk. Through this initiative, students will research active programs, interview scientists and mission organizers, and identify educational and volunteer opportunities for young people.
The program demonstrated that preparing for Mars begins on Earth—with scientific testing, international cooperation, and young people willing to explore new possibilities.
Watch the full event: [Insert YouTube link]
Learn more or get involved: [Insert GYP program or contact link]
On August 26, 2026, Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP) hosted a special online conversation with Dr. Robert Zubrin, founder and president of The Mars Society and one of the world’s most influential advocates for human exploration and settlement of Mars.
The event was presented as part of the 2026 “Voices for Mars: Global Youth Roundtable” initiative under the theme “From Earth to Mars: Why It Matters for Humanity.” It was jointly organized by GYP, the GYP Chapter of The Mars Society, and the Costa Rica Chapter of The Mars Society.
Youth representatives David Wang and Manfred Xirinachs led the discussion. Ron Storie, Director of Chapters and Membership at The Mars Society, also participated and shared insights about the continued development of Mars analog research stations.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Zubrin encouraged young people to see Mars exploration not simply as a distant scientific mission, but as a powerful opportunity to advance knowledge, inspire innovation, and open a new chapter in human civilization.
Dr. Zubrin identified three major reasons for exploring Mars: science, challenge, and future development.
Scientifically, Mars is one of the most important destinations in the solar system. Billions of years ago, the planet may have had environmental conditions similar to those of early Earth. It once had liquid water, a thicker atmosphere, and conditions that may have supported life.
Studying Mars could therefore help humanity address one of its greatest scientific questions: Did life ever develop on another planet?
Dr. Zubrin explained that all known life on Earth uses DNA and RNA to store and transmit biological information. However, life elsewhere in the universe might use a different information system. Discovering evidence of an independent form of life on Mars would greatly expand our understanding of biology and the universe.
He compared the possible diversity of biological information systems to the different alphabets and writing systems used by human societies. They may look different, but each can carry complex information.
Dr. Zubrin also emphasized the importance of challenge. In his view, sending humans to Mars would be a much greater challenge than returning to the Moon—and that challenge could inspire an entire generation.
He compared this potential impact with the influence of the Apollo program. The race to the Moon inspired many young people to study science, engineering, and mathematics. Those students later contributed to major technological developments, including the growth of Silicon Valley and the modern technology economy.
A bold Mars program, he argued, could create a similar wave of interest and achievement. Even young people who never travel to Mars could be inspired to enter scientific, technical, entrepreneurial, or creative fields that benefit society on Earth.
Another important subject was biotechnology, which Dr. Zubrin described as one of the key engineering sciences of the 21st century.
Living and working on Mars would require people to develop new methods of producing food, recycling materials, maintaining healthy environments, and using limited resources efficiently. These challenges could accelerate innovations that also address problems on Earth.
Dr. Zubrin challenged the idea of a “closed future,” in which population growth must inevitably result in fewer resources for everyone. He explained that resources are not determined only by the raw materials found in nature. Human knowledge and invention transform natural materials into useful resources.
As science and technology advance, societies can discover new ways to create food, energy, transportation, medicine, and other necessities. Mars exploration could become a powerful engine for this process by presenting problems that require entirely new solutions.
The discussion also addressed the difficult physical realities of living on Mars.
Mars has an atmosphere only about one percent as dense as Earth’s. People living there would need spacesuits when working outside and carefully pressurized habitats for daily life. A leak in a habitat could quickly become a serious emergency.
Radiation, extreme temperatures, distance from Earth, food production, transportation, and medical care would also create significant challenges. However, Dr. Zubrin argued that solving these problems would drive human innovation.
He compared the potential influence of Mars settlement to the historical role of the American frontier, where new conditions and practical needs contributed to technological and economic developments. In the same way, communities on Mars would be required to invent, adapt, and become increasingly self-reliant.
These inventions would not necessarily remain on Mars. New technologies developed for food production, energy efficiency, recycling, construction, medicine, and transportation could also improve life on Earth.
Ron Storie asked Dr. Zubrin about Mars analog stations—research facilities on Earth that recreate some of the environmental and operational challenges of a human mission to Mars.
Dr. Zubrin compared the pioneering role of these analog stations to Galileo’s telescope. Just as the telescope created a new way to study the universe, Mars analog stations have introduced new methods for studying how people might live, work, conduct research, and cooperate during future planetary missions.
The Mars Society has operated two primary analog research stations for approximately 25 years. Together, they have involved more than 2,000 participants serving in approximately 350 crews.
At these stations, crew members practice scientific fieldwork, test equipment, follow mission procedures, experience isolation, and learn how small teams perform under conditions designed to resemble a Mars expedition.
Dr. Zubrin expressed hope that the success of these early stations will encourage organizations such as NASA and other institutions to build larger and more advanced facilities. Future analog stations could serve as research centers, training locations, and educational practice facilities for students and future Mars explorers.
The discussion also noted the development of additional analog projects, including a station connected to a former Titan missile silo and other facilities being planned around the world.
A central message of the roundtable was that Mars exploration will require people with many different talents.
Scientists and engineers will be essential for designing spacecraft, conducting research, creating habitats, and developing life-support systems. However, Dr. Zubrin explained that successful space initiatives also require business leaders, financial professionals, educators, journalists, artists, filmmakers, public-relations specialists, and political advocates.
A company such as SpaceX, for example, requires technical expertise, but it also needs financing, management, public communication, and the ability to build support for an ambitious vision.
Culture is equally important. Books, films, visual art, journalism, and other forms of storytelling can influence how the public understands space exploration. They can help transform Mars from an abstract scientific subject into a shared human goal.
This message is particularly important for young people who are interested in space but may not plan to become engineers. There are many possible ways to contribute to the future of space exploration.
Dr. Zubrin also shared his personal career journey. He studied mathematics and then spent seven years teaching high school science before becoming an aerospace engineer and a leading advocate for Mars exploration.
His experience demonstrated that career paths are not always direct. A person may begin in one field, gain valuable experience, and later move toward a deeper passion.
He encouraged young people to identify what genuinely inspires them and to develop the knowledge, skills, and determination needed to pursue it. Practical considerations are important, but they should not prevent students from exploring meaningful goals.
The conversation also included the story of Elon Musk’s early involvement with The Mars Society. Dr. Zubrin explained that Musk attended a Mars Society fundraising event in Silicon Valley in 2001, contributed $5,000, and later joined the organization’s board. His growing interest in Mars eventually became central to the vision behind SpaceX.
Manfred Xirinachs, an undergraduate studying mechanical engineering with a concentration in aerospace, asked about the concern that Mars travel might initially be accessible only to wealthy people.
Dr. Zubrin discussed how the expansion of private space companies could gradually reduce the cost of reaching space. Reusable rockets and, eventually, a market for used spacecraft could make transportation more affordable over time.
He predicted that future Mars settlement may not take the form of one enormous city. Instead, Mars could develop through dozens of smaller communities, each experimenting with different technologies, economic models, and forms of social organization.
Government missions may lead the first phase of human exploration, but private companies and independent settlers could play a growing role in long-term settlement.
Dr. Zubrin strongly rejected the idea that Mars should be treated as an “escape hatch” in case Earth is destroyed.
A Mars settlement would depend on Earth for many years and could not remain secure if human civilization on Earth completely collapsed. Therefore, Mars exploration should not be promoted as an alternative to protecting our home planet.
Instead, he described Mars as an opportunity to create a new branch of human civilization—one that remains connected to Earth while developing new knowledge, technologies, and cultural possibilities.
This new branch could benefit all humanity by creating inventions that make societies more productive, sustainable, and capable of addressing difficult global challenges.
When asked to summarize the meaning of Mars exploration in one sentence, Dr. Zubrin said it would:
“Open up a new world, which is going to be a tremendous engine of invention for all humanity.”
The roundtable offered young participants a broad and hopeful vision of Mars exploration.
Mars is not only a destination for astronauts. It is also a subject for scientists seeking evidence of life, engineers building new systems, entrepreneurs developing new industries, educators inspiring future generations, and journalists and artists helping society understand the meaning of exploration.
By introducing young people to leaders such as Dr. Robert Zubrin, GYP’s “Voices for Mars” initiative seeks to encourage curiosity, international cooperation, scientific learning, and thoughtful discussion about humanity’s future.
The recorded conversation will be available through the GYP YouTube channel as an educational resource for students, teachers, families, and space enthusiasts worldwide.
Viewers are invited to watch the full interview, share their reflections in the comments, and subscribe to the GYP YouTube channel for more youth-led interviews, global roundtables, humanitarian stories, and educational programs.
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GYP student volunteers bridge digital and generational divides through technology, language, and wellness activities
Calgary, Canada — July 23, 2026 — Boston GYP Student Board member David Ren led a group of high school students in a special community service event for older adults at the Calgary Central Library.
Organized in partnership with Happy 50 Plus, a senior service network in Western Canada, the event aimed to help seniors build confidence in using modern technology while creating meaningful connections between younger and older generations.
This was the third time David and his student team had organized this type of senior service activity in Calgary, demonstrating their continued commitment to supporting older members of the community.
During the event, student volunteers provided patient, one-on-one guidance on using mobile phones and other smart electronic devices. They showed seniors how to communicate with family and friends, search for useful information, access online services, learn new skills, and enjoy digital entertainment.
The students also helped participants learn basic English and practice everyday conversation. These friendly exchanges gave seniors an opportunity to strengthen their language skills in a relaxed and encouraging environment.
Technology and language learning were not the only activities offered. Students and seniors also practiced tai chi and yoga together, bringing movement, wellness, and enjoyment to the gathering. These shared activities created a welcoming atmosphere filled with learning, laughter, and friendship.
For the participating students, the event was also an important learning experience. By listening patiently and responding to each senior’s individual needs, they developed stronger communication, leadership, and community-service skills. At the same time, the seniors shared their experiences and perspectives with the younger volunteers, making the program a genuine exchange between generations.
The event demonstrated how young people can use their knowledge, energy, and compassion to support older adults. Through simple but meaningful acts of service, David and his team helped seniors feel more comfortable with technology, encouraged lifelong learning, and strengthened connections across generations.
By organizing these activities three times, the students have shown that youth-led service can grow from a single event into an ongoing community commitment.
This is GYP Brief—sharing stories of young people taking action and making a positive difference around the world.
Watch more youth service and community activity videos on the GYP YouTube channel.
Mars Society Founder and President Will Lead “Orbit Your Future: Space Careers” on August 26
Boston, MA, USA — GYP is honored to welcome Dr. Robert Zubrin, Founder and President of The Mars Society, as the distinguished speaker for a key session of the 2026 Voices for Mars: Global Youth Roundtable.
Dr. Zubrin will headline an online session of “Orbit Your Future: Space Careers” on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. New York time. The event will be co-organized by the GYP Chapter and the Costa Rica Chapter of The Mars Society.
As a leading advocate for human exploration of Mars, Dr. Zubrin has helped bring the possibilities and importance of Mars exploration into public discussion. His participation will offer young people a valuable opportunity to hear directly from one of the most prominent voices in the global movement to make humanity a spacefaring civilization.
During the session, Dr. Zubrin will discuss how Mars and space exploration are influencing career development for young people in today’s rapidly changing world. The conversation will highlight opportunities across science, engineering, technology, sustainability, policy, entrepreneurship, communications, and other fields supporting the future of space exploration.
The session forms part of the 2026 roundtable theme, “From Earth to Mars: Why It Matters for Humanity.” The theme approaches Mars not only as a scientific frontier, but also as a way to examine humanity’s future through innovation, sustainability, ethics, and global cooperation.
By connecting Dr. Zubrin’s vision for Mars with the interests and ambitions of a new generation, the event will encourage young participants to consider how they can contribute to space exploration—and how the knowledge, technologies, and international partnerships developed for Mars could help address challenges on Earth.
The Voices for Mars Global Youth Roundtable provides a platform for young people to engage with influential thinkers, exchange ideas, and explore their potential roles in humanity’s journey from Earth to Mars.
Additional information about registration and participation will be announced on the GYP website.
Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP) recently had the opportunity to interview The Mars Society educator and science leader Nicole Willett about the organization’s annual Mission to Mars Engineering Design Competition — an international STEM program that challenges students to design realistic human missions to Mars.
With participants from around the world, the competition combines science, engineering, teamwork, leadership, and creativity while encouraging students to think critically about the future of space exploration.
“Science Is for Everyone”
During the interview, Nicole emphasized that one of the program’s core missions is accessibility and inclusion.
“Science is for everyone, not just an elite few who can afford it.”
The competition welcomes middle school and high school students from all backgrounds, including those with little or no prior engineering experience. According to Nicole, curiosity, dedication, and teamwork matter more than technical expertise.
Students work in teams to design a 1.5-year human mission to Mars while balancing real-world constraints such as:
astronaut safety
food and water systems
power generation
habitat design
scientific exploration
communication delays with Earth
crew psychology and teamwork
The experience encourages students to combine scientific research with practical problem-solving.
A Real-World STEM Experience
Unlike many traditional STEM competitions, the Mission to Mars program simulates the complexity of actual aerospace mission planning.
Students must:
write a 25-page technical report
prepare a professional presentation
defend their mission proposal
critique other teams’ designs
respond to constructive feedback
Nicole explained that one of the most valuable parts of the competition is learning how to collaborate and adapt:
“It’s okay to accept constructive criticism. It’s also okay to defend your reasoning. And sometimes it’s okay to change your mind.”
The competition also teaches students how to divide responsibilities effectively across engineering, science, and human operations teams — similar to real aerospace missions.
Learning from NASA Scientists and Space Experts
One of the program’s most unique features is direct interaction with professionals in the space industry.
Students can attend live online talks from:
NASA scientists
aerospace engineers
Mars researchers
industry professionals
leaders from The Mars Society
Nicole shared that students even have opportunities to ask questions directly to Robert Zubrin, one of the world’s leading Mars exploration advocates.
Many guest experts continue answering student questions even after presentations, giving participants rare mentorship opportunities that are often unavailable in standard classroom settings.
More Than Engineering: The Human Side of Space Exploration
The competition is not only about technology. Nicole repeatedly stressed the importance of understanding human needs and emotions during long-duration space missions.
Students are challenged to think about questions such as:
What happens if astronauts disagree?
How should crews manage stress and isolation?
What happens if a medical emergency occurs on Mars?
How do astronauts maintain mental well-being millions of kilometers away from Earth?
These discussions encourage students to develop interdisciplinary thinking that combines science, psychology, communication, leadership, and ethics.
The Importance of Storytelling and Media
As GYP continues promoting youth storytelling, journalism, and digital media projects, Nicole also highlighted the role of films, media, and storytelling in inspiring future scientists.
She referenced popular science-fiction works such as:
The Martian
Interstellar
Project Hail Mary
According to Nicole, storytelling helps transform complicated scientific concepts into exciting and relatable human experiences.
“Films, podcasts, and journalism can turn technical mission designs into compelling visions of future exploration.”
She also emphasized that media representation can inspire younger students to explore STEM careers and participate in scientific programs.
Building Future Careers in STEM
Nicole shared that many former participants continue contributing to the competition years later as mentors and team leaders.
Students have also used their competition experience:
in college applications
for recommendation letters
in STEM scholarship applications
to pursue careers in aerospace and planetary science
The program encourages innovation, systems-level thinking, and interdisciplinary collaboration — skills that are increasingly important for the future workforce in space exploration, robotics, medicine, and engineering.
Scholarships and Global Participation
To ensure wider accessibility, the competition offers scholarship opportunities for students who may not be able to afford registration costs.
Nicole emphasized that the goal is to make STEM education available internationally regardless of financial background.
The competition is fully online, allowing students from around the world to participate collaboratively across time zones.
Looking Ahead
The Mars Society plans to continue expanding the program internationally by:
adding more expert guest speakers
increasing mentorship opportunities
publishing student mission designs
integrating emerging Mars technologies
building new educational partnerships
Nicole also expressed excitement about previous participants continuing to mentor future students, helping create a growing global STEM community.
Final Thoughts
The interview highlighted how programs like the Mission to Mars Engineering Design Competition are helping students move beyond textbooks and into real-world scientific thinking.
By combining engineering, teamwork, leadership, storytelling, and mentorship, the program offers students a unique opportunity to imagine — and design — humanity’s future beyond Earth.
For students interested in STEM, aerospace, planetary science, or science communication, the competition represents not only an educational experience, but also an invitation to become part of the next generation of explorers.
We are delighted to welcome Dhairya Sharma, a 14-year-old student from Jammu and Kashmir, India, as the first participant from India to join Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP).
Dhairya brings with him a strong passion for journalism, geopolitics, and global affairs. He has actively participated in seven Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, where he has developed a keen interest in diplomacy, international dialogue, and problem-solving. Alongside his MUN experience, Dhairya has contributed to his school’s journalism initiatives, building valuable skills in research, critical analysis, and structured writing.
Growing up in Jammu and Kashmir, Dhairya has cultivated a thoughtful perspective on the complex global challenges people face today. His curiosity about world issues and dedication to understanding diverse viewpoints align closely with GYP’s mission to promote accurate, unbiased, and impactful reporting.
We are especially excited to welcome Dhairya as our first student member from India, marking an important step in expanding GYP’s global youth network. His enthusiasm for diplomacy and storytelling will undoubtedly enrich our community.
Please join us in welcoming Dhairya Sharma to GYP—we look forward to seeing his contributions and growth as part of our international youth initiative.
We are excited to announce that Manfred Xirinachs Ugalde has joined the GYP Student Board — marking several meaningful “firsts” for our global community.
Manfred is the first university-level student to join the GYP Student Board, the first representative from Costa Rica, and notably, the first member bringing extensive hands-on experience in space science and engineering.
Currently majoring in aerospace engineering, Manfred is recognized as the youngest analog astronaut in Costa Rica. His passion for space exploration is matched by a strong commitment to empowering others and expanding access to the field.
At a remarkably young stage in his career, Manfred has already founded and led multiple impactful initiatives:
President & Founder of Red PlaNet, an aerospace, engineering, and science organization at Texas Tech University – Costa Rica
Lead Engineer & Founder of Summit Tower, the first accessible microgravity tower in Central America
Chapter Director of The Mars Society Costa Rica, helping connect local talent with the global space industry
Beyond leadership titles, Manfred is deeply committed to hands-on learning and innovation. He leads student teams to design and build real-world projects — from microgravity simulators to underwater rovers — demonstrating that meaningful contributions to science and technology can begin long before graduation.
As he joins GYP, Manfred brings an inspiring vision: to encourage young people around the world to take initiative, explore boldly, and realize that they do not have to wait to make a real impact.
We warmly welcome Manfred to the GYP Student Board and look forward to the energy, creativity, and global perspective he will bring to our community.
As part of the global observance of Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Week (HNPW), Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP) successfully hosted its 2026 seminar, “Youth Storytelling for Humanitarian Impact: Journalism, Film, and Digital Media.” Marking its third consecutive year contributing to HNPW, GYP brought together a diverse panel of international speakers and student leaders to explore how youth-driven storytelling can inform, connect, and inspire humanitarian action worldwide.
The session, hosted by GYP student leaders David Wang and Molin Wang, featured five distinguished guest speakers joining from across multiple time zones, alongside student presenters from GYP’s global network. The seminar highlighted the growing role of youth in humanitarian journalism and media, emphasizing the power of authentic storytelling grounded in lived experience and community perspectives.
Among the featured speakers, Ali Latifi, an editor at The New Humanitarian, delivered compelling insights shaped by his experience reporting across regions including Afghanistan, the United States, and Europe. Drawing from his background growing up between Kabul and California, Latifi emphasized the importance of reporting from within communities rather than as outsiders. He underscored that youth journalists bring fresh perspectives and a strong commitment to inclusion, particularly in an era where digital platforms amplify diverse voices. He also highlighted the need to seek multiple perspectives and uncover shared human experiences—what he described as a “universal truth”—to create meaningful and responsible journalism.
Other speakers further expanded on the theme of storytelling as a catalyst for change. George Nalo addressed the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, emphasizing that personal narratives from affected individuals can often communicate urgency and empathy more effectively than statistics alone. Kito Mahania spoke about the unique role of artists and storytellers in shaping public understanding and driving long-term social change, complementing the immediate work of humanitarian responders. Nicholas Natalio introduced participants to documentary filmmaking techniques, encouraging young creators to tell stories “with an amateur heart”—authentically, compassionately, and in the moment.
A particularly inspiring highlight came from Cole Alan, a high school filmmaker and GYP member, who shared his award-winning documentary following a recovering addict at his uncle’s clinic. Originally created as a school project, the film has since been screened at more than 40 international festivals, demonstrating the real-world impact youth storytellers can achieve.
The seminar also featured presentations from five GYP student researchers, who explored how youth journalism can evolve into meaningful action through initiatives such as expanding student clubs and GYP’s digital media platforms. They emphasized the ethical responsibility of storytellers to work with communities rather than simply reporting about them, reinforcing the importance of empathy, accuracy, and multiple perspectives in humanitarian narratives.
Overall, the session reflected GYP’s growing leadership in youth engagement within the humanitarian sector. By combining professional expertise with student-led innovation, the seminar created a dynamic and inclusive dialogue that resonated with participants worldwide. As GYP continues to expand its global network, its contributions to HNPW highlight the organization’s commitment to empowering the next generation of storytellers to drive awareness, understanding, and action in addressing global challenges.
Boston, MA – February 2026 – Boston Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP) proudly announces its third consecutive year of participation in the Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Weeks (HNPW), the Geneva-based global forum that brings together humanitarian practitioners, United Nations agencies, NGOs, scholars, and youth leaders from around the world.
Photos are from 2025 HNPW events
Unlike previous years when GYP delegations traveled to Geneva, the organization will participate fully online during the week of March 2–6, 2026, expanding global access and youth engagement.
GYP Key Seminar
“Youth Storytelling for Humanitarian Impact: Journalism, Film, and Digital Media”
📅 Tuesday, March 3, 2026 🕓 4:00–5:30 PM (EST, Boston Time) 💻 Online via Zoom
🎟 Public Open Event – Everyone Is Welcome
This is a public online event, and anyone is welcome to join. Interested participants may visit the official HNPW website at www.hnpw.org for more information, or email info@globalyouthphilanthropy.org to request the Zoom link.
Hosted by Molin Wang and David Wang, 2026 Co-Chairs of the GYP Student Board, the seminar will explore how youth-driven storytelling across journalism, film, and digital platforms can generate awareness, empathy, and measurable humanitarian impact.
Program Highlights
Opening Remarks Molin Wang will open the session with reflections on youth leadership in global humanitarian dialogue.
Special Film Screening A three-minute flagship film, “GYP in HNPW,” will showcase GYP’s growing engagement in global humanitarian conversations.
Distinguished Guest Speakers
The seminar will feature five internationally respected professionals and youth leaders:
Ali Latifi, Asia Editor at The New Humanitarian – An experienced journalist reporting on crises from Washington DC to Kabul, offering frontline insight into humanitarian reporting.
George Nalo, Founder & Executive Director of Education in Crisis (EiC) – Leading efforts to address the global education crisis across five African countries.
Kieto Mahaniah, Co-founder of the Next Humanitarians Network at HNPW and Operations Coordinator at HELP Logistics, Germany – Specialist in humanitarian logistics and sustainable supply chains.
Nicholas Natalicchio, Associate Program Director, Film & Television, at Drexel University – Bringing academic and industry perspectives on socially engaged filmmaking.
Cole Adefuin Aylaian, 2026 GYP Student Board Member and director of “Becoming Jeremy,” winner of the GYP Rising Filmmaker Award at the 2025 GYP Youth Humanitarian Film Festival.
GYP Student Project Presentations
First-Stage Progress Showcase: “Youth Storytelling for Humanitarian Impact”
GYP student leaders will present collaborative research and media projects, including:
From Story to Action: Turning Awareness into Impact – Jenny Bu
Film: Emotional Power of Short Humanitarian Films – Julian Shi
Digital Media & Social Platforms: Impact in 60 Seconds – James Zhang
Project Summary: Ethics & Responsibility in Youth Storytelling – Connor Mi
The session will conclude with an open Q&A discussion led by David Wang.
Youth Representation in Additional HNPW Session
At the same time, Lucy Zhang, Senior Co-Chair of the GYP Student Board, will participate and present at another HNPW session titled “Young Humanitarian Voices,” hosted by the Next Humanitarians Network (USSG). Her participation reflects GYP’s commitment to elevating youth perspectives across multiple global humanitarian platforms.
Boston, MA — [Feb 3, 2026] — Global Youth Philanthropy (GYP) is proud to announce that its Mars Society GYP Chapter has officially received recognition from The Mars Society, marking an important milestone in GYP’s expanding youth-led STEM and space exploration initiatives.
The official recognition affirms the Mars Society GYP Chapter as an authorized youth chapter operating under The Mars Society’s global network, dedicated to advancing education, research, and youth engagement in space science, planetary exploration, and the future of human settlement on Mars.
“This recognition is a meaningful validation of our students’ dedication and vision,” said Michael Wang, Director of Global Youth Philanthropy. “It empowers young people to engage directly with real-world space advocacy, scientific curiosity, and global collaboration—while connecting humanitarian values with the future of space exploration.”
The Mars Society GYP Chapter is a youth-led initiative, designed to provide students with opportunities to:
Learn about Mars exploration, space technology, and planetary science
Engage with scientists, engineers, and space professionals
Develop leadership skills through student-led research, discussions, and public outreach
Explore the ethical, environmental, and humanitarian dimensions of space exploration
As part of Global Youth Philanthropy, the chapter also emphasizes storytelling, education, and interdisciplinary learning—bridging science, media, and global citizenship.
The recognition further strengthens GYP’s mission to empower youth through hands-on learning, international dialogue, and future-oriented education. It also opens new opportunities for collaboration with Mars Society chapters worldwide, participation in space-related programs, and youth involvement in global STEM initiatives.
More information about the Mars Society GYP Chapter and upcoming activities will be announced soon.
