The UNODC Youth Initiative Magazine, Butterfly Wings, is a three-month project through which Youth Forum alumni meet weekly to work together on the magazine’s overall plan, draft articles, discuss visuals, and share their thoughts and perspectives on substance use prevention, youth empowerment and health promotion.
Carlos, from El Salvador, is a Youth Forum participant from 2022, and a contributor to the 4th issue of the UNODC Youth Initiative Magazine. This week, Carlos shares a bit of what goes on behind the scenes throughout the making of the magazine, and his contribution.
What sparked your interest in participating in the Butterfly Wings magazine?
It interested me, because from my point of view, communicating substance use prevention and social awareness through any channel is one of the most important actions for the community. A magazine is an engaging yet formal way of presenting information, which helps important topics such as substance use prevention be portrayed in an appealing manner for people who read it.
Could you please describe your role in this magazine?
My role in the Youth Magazine is that of a writer. I wanted to contribute to the Magazine with this role because I believe it is important to express positive messages whenever there is the opportunity to do so. And I am grateful for having the possibility of communicating the importance of substance use prevention and social awareness through the Youth Magazine.
What has it been like participating in the Youth Magazine?
My experience has been wonderful, because I’ve had the opportunity to learn from my fellow participants involved in the magazine. Also, our weekly meetings helped me learn more about setting goals, organization and teamwork. Experiences such as this helps one grow in an integral way. We worked over the past two months on the overall outline, content, and writing of the articles; and in each weekly meeting, we learn more about structuring precise, informative and engaging documents. Engaging with all the young leaders from past Youth Forums is also extremely beneficial for everyone involved since it facilitates and enhances the exchange of ideas and perspectives on substance use prevention!
Can you give us a sneak peek into your article?
My article is on the relationship between youth empowerment, social awareness and substance use prevention, and how these terms complement each other and help to have better understanding on our role as young leaders.