UNDP Arab States has announced that its NextGenYouth platform, managed under the Shababeek initiative, has surpassed 7,700 members as it marks its second anniversary. Launched during a period of regional uncertainty, the platform has evolved into a critical digital public good, providing a virtual bridge for young entrepreneurs, activists, and professionals across the Arab world. By centralizing resources for economic empowerment and policy dialogue, the initiative serves as a foundational ecosystem for the next generation of MENA-based innovators and startup founders.
Bridging the Gap Between Entrepreneurship and Civic Engagement
The NextGenYouth platform acts as “connective tissue” for the region’s youth, intentionally linking diverse sectors such as climate action, peacebuilding, and entrepreneurship. For young founders and tech professionals, the platform offers a curated hub of opportunities and a growing e-library of open-source toolkits and learning materials. These resources are designed to help youth navigate the complexities of the Arab region’s market, characterized by both high fragility and high potential, enabling them to transition from ideation to active civic and economic participation.
Data-Driven Insights and Networking for Regional Growth
Beyond its role as a resource repository, NextGenYouth provides specialized youth factsheets featuring age-disaggregated data across the Arab region, offering valuable insights for VCs and policymakers focused on demographic trends. The platform also features a comprehensive mapping of UNDP and partner-led youth initiatives, alongside a dedicated networking and mentorship space. By allowing users to publish blogs and showcase projects, it amplifies success stories that might otherwise remain siloed, fostering a sense of community among founders facing shared regional challenges.
Expanding Horizons for 2026
As it enters its third year, the platform has set an ambitious target to reach 10,000 members by the end of 2026. The UNDP Regional Youth Team plans to deepen engagement by expanding Arabic-language content and introducing interactive formats, including podcasts and digital journeys. These updates aim to lower the barrier to entry for youth in underserved areas, ensuring that the platform remains an inclusive, youth-friendly space that supports the resilience of the regional startup ecosystem even in times of crisis.
About NextGenYouth
NextGenYouth is a digital platform launched by the UNDP Regional Youth Team under the Shababeek initiative to empower young people across the Arab States. Designed as a youth-driven hub, it provides access to knowledge, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The platform focuses on fostering economic empowerment, civic engagement, and leadership among youth, aiming to provide them with the tools necessary to contribute to sustainable development and peacebuilding within their respective communities.
Source: UNDP in the Arab States region
