We Have the Power to Effect Change!
By Nickie, Member, International Youth Leadership Council, Advocates for Youth
 My name is Nickie and I am originally from Baku, Azerbaijan. Six years ago my family moved to the United States. We spent the first three years in New Orleans, and then moved to Rockville, MD. I am a student at the University of Maryland College Park. Besides my work with IYLC, I am one of the Student Advocates For Education about Rape (SAFER), Alternative Spring Break, and the HELP Center hotline. SAFER and the HELP Center provide students on campus with information about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), STI prevention, pregnancy resources, sexual assault, and other information. I also volunteered at a hospital in New Orleans. These activities have all been great learning experiences and led me to where I am today.
I first became passionate about sexual health issues when I was twelve, right after my mother returned from her six-month long trip to South Africa. During her stay, she worked with HIV-positive patients. After that I started reading about HIV/AIDS policies around the world. And to be honest, I was really amazed. Even in the era of AIDS, governments believe they have the right to control our bodies and withhold basic human rights. The only way to do stop this is to fight for what you believe in. This is why I joined the IYLC. The IYLC has given a chance to be better informed and to become an effective advocate, spokesperson, and youth educator on issues concerning adolescent sexual and reproductive health. I believe that it is the duty and responsibility of all young people to help shape the world into a place we want our children and grandchildren to live in. We have the power to effect change!
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