Durban Summit Report (2025)

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

TRANSFORM: Engaging with Young People for Social Change is supported through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). Project number: 895-2024-1003

© McGill University, 2026

For more information, contact: Claudia Mitchell – Principal Investigator, Distinguished James McGill Professor at claudia.mitchell@mcgill.ca

INTRODUCTION

In February 2025, in Durban, South Africa, the TRANSFORM project hosted the Transnational Youth Summit, a landmark gathering of over 40 young leaders representing Canada, Malawi, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa, and Sierra Leone. More than a traditional conference, the summit served as a dedicated sanctuary for reflection, learning, and the unlearning of traditional norms.

By fostering a deep sense of community across international borders, the event focused on two primary pillars. First, it prioritized youth leadership and collaboration through the establishment of the TRANSFORM Leadership Committee a youth-led body designed to sustain cross-site collaboration. This initiative provided a platform to examine the evolving role of youth in research and advocacy while strengthening peer-to-peer networks. Second, the summit facilitated a shared understanding across various contexts, allowing participants to map the project’s global footprint, investigate the specific challenges faced by different regions, and engage in critical dialogues regarding the diverse interpretations of gender and gender transformation.

TRANSFORM- What is it?

TRANSFORM: Engaging with Young People for Social Change is a SSHRC-funded global partnership that positions young people as leaders, innovators, and critical thinkers in advancing gender transformation and social justice. Working across a number of countries including Canada, India, Malawi, Mali, Mexico, Argentina, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and South Africa, TRANSFORM uses participatory visual and arts-based methods from photovoice to performance to zine-making to explore how gender norms are challenged and reimagined in practice. Through Youth-to -Youth (Y2Y) spaces, it connects local interventions with global dialogues and intergenerational collaboration. Grounded in feminist, decolonial, and intersectional approaches, TRANSFORM amplifies youth voices to disrupt gender norms and influence gender transformative practices across concerns such as gender violence and climate justice.

PRE-SUMMIT

Local Photovoice Activities

In the months leading up to the Summit, the Participatory Cultures Lab hosted two online introductory webinars (October 16 and 22, 2024) on Photovoice, discussing the process and impacts of the method. These webinars were attended by the site and youth leaders who then conducted photovoice activities in their communities. These local gatherings took place in Canada, Malawi, Mali, Mexico, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania, where young people participated in photovoice workshops

A total of 100 photovoice images and captions were produced by 200 young people in 11 sites, all responding to the prompt Gender issues in my community: Challenges and Issues. All 100 photos were then shared with the participants on the second day of the summit.

DAY 0 - ARRIVAL & WELCOME TO SOUTH AFRICA

Youth participants arrived progressively throughout the day from all over the world!

Top left: Sani Abdullahi, Blessing Azhime Moses, and Bilkisu Ibrahim. Top middle: Brenda Ojinaga Zapata, and Miguel Ángel Sosme Campos. Top right: Khalid Muhammad, Blessing Azhime Moses, and Sani Abdullahi. Bottom left: Marian Murray, and Keira O’Brien. Bottom middle: Ellah Tambalaweko, and Taonga Mtambo. Bottom right: Abdulai Sahid Tencoid Conteh, Bintu Dumbuya, and Ruby Boston GriMiths.

Consent forms

Each group of youth worked with a site mentor (usually the researcher associated with their site), to walk through the art and media release forms, informed consent form, and Safeguarding Guidelines & Code of Conduct. Youth had the chance to ask clarifying questions and had the opportunity to opt out of any activities.

Welcome Dinner + Meet & Greet

During the meet and greet the group had the opportunity to customize their names tags and pick up their TRANFORM t-shirt.

Hands for Change

For this participatory visual activity, participants photographed their hands and wrote messages on the photos in response to the prompt: What are your priorities, your visions for the future, and your agendas for gender transformative change? The photos were hung on a collective and creative display.

DAY 1 – GETTING STARTED

The summit commenced bright and early with a warm welcome from the MCs, Nkonzo Mkhize and Samkelisiwe Luthuli. To provide a foundation for the days ahead, Claudia Mitchell and Relebohile Moletsane presented an introduction to the TRANSFORM project, outlining its core mission and objectives.

Following these introductory remarks, Nkosi Sbonelo N. Mkhize of the AbaMbo Traditional Council, Hlathikhulu, offered formal opening words. As a gesture of thanks, Nkosi Mkhize was presented with a hand-beaded medallion by Angelo Bernard, a member of the Eskasoni First Nation in Canada, a gesture that highlighted the international and collaborative nature of the gathering.

Who’s in the room?

To foster a sense of community, the 40 young participants and 17 facilitators engaged in a “Who’s in the Room?” Circle activity. This allowed everyone to introduce themselves, share their place of origin, and express what they hoped to gain from the summit experience.

Introducing Our Sites

The morning concluded with a series of presentations from each site. Representatives from each location shared the Photovoice activities that had taken place at their respective sites, providing essential context for their local work and the creative outputs produced.

Youth-Led Agendas

The afternoon session began with the development of Youth-Led Agendas, an activity designed to center the voices of the participants. The young people moved into small groups to discuss their specific goals and expectations for the project.

They were asked to respond to two primary prompts: “What do you want to learn through the TRANSFORM project?” and “What are your priorities?” The groups collaborated to identify their collective needs, ensuring Example of the responses from participants the summit’s direction reflected their personal and community interests.

Unpacking Sex, Gender, and Sexuality

Following the development of the Youth-Led Agendas, the afternoon continued with an introductory workshop on Sex, Gender, and Sexuality. This session was facilitated by Brian Bongani Sibeko-Ngidi, Director of the Uthingo Network.

The workshop aimed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the distinctions between sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, and sexual practices. By exploring biological, social, and cultural perspectives, the session fostered an inclusive and respectful environment for diverse identities. Through interactive discussions and group activities, attendees worked to unpack common misconceptions, gaining the tools necessary to create safer, more inclusive spaces within their own communities. Additionally, the session covered the spectrum of sexual orientations and consensual practices, placing a strong emphasis on the principles of respect, consent, and personal autonomy.

Beach!

At the end of Day one the whole group took a walk to the Whale Bone Pier to unwind, take some group photos and hang out by the sea.

DAY 2 – DIGGING IN

Engaging with the Photovoice – Co - Curating the Travelling Exhibition

Day 2 began with a check-in question and a chance for participants to view the photovoice panels. The goal was to being to get participants to look at the photos from each site, and to look across the photos from each site. Participants placed comments or questions on the panels using post-it notes. The participants were then engaged in a 5-step activity to engage more deeply with the questions and gender concepts raised in the discussion and to cocreate the travelling exhibition.

Step 1: Walkabout & Discussion

Participants were given 15-20 minutes to walk around the panel exhibition to look at the photos, read captions, and see the questions and comments raised. During this time, they were invited to reflect on (and/or jot down some quick notes about): What do you think? What stands out to you as you look at the entire collection of photos? Facilitators Jen Thompson and Lisa Wiebesiek then facilitated a discussion about the questions and insights that came up for participants.

Step 2: Working with the Photos

Participants formed small groups (5-6 people) mixed across sites. Each group received a package that contained the entire collection of 100 photos and captions.

Looking across all the photos, the groups were asked to reflect on the following participatory analysis questions:

a. What are some key themes that you identified across the photos?

b. What do you think these photos say about gender transformation (disrupting gender norms)?

c. What do you think is missing from the photos?

d. Why do you think this work is important?

e. What questions come up for you as you look at the photos?

Each group found a quiet place to engage with the photos, spreading them on the floor, hanging them up, or posting them on walls.

Step 3: Discussion

Each group was invited to report back their analysis of the photos to the larger group. Key questions were:

• What themes were most present across sites?

• Was there anything that wasn’t present that surprised you?

Step 4: Creating a Travelling Exhibition

At the end of the discussion each group was asked to choose 4 photos that they thought were the most important to showcase, thus generating the 30 photos that then became the travelling exhibition.

Using a pop-up brainstorm, the group also generated ideas for the title and curatorial statement from the following questions:

a. The photos in the exhibition tell a story of

b. These photos invite audiences to ask a number of different questions….....

c. These photos invite audiences to take the following actions…..

Youth United Will Never Be Defeated

Empowered by a shared vision, the youth participants titled their collective work Youth

United Will Never be Defeated The following curatorial statement was collectively crafted by facilitators using direct quotes and reflections gathered throughout the curation process.

We are a group of young people from different communities around the world, including Canada, Malawi, Mali, Mexico, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Africa, and Tanzania. This exhibition features photographs taken young people from our communities about gender issues that matter to us.

The photos tell a story of our experiences, emotions, and struggles. In talking about the challenges that we face in different countries, we can see how similar we are even though the issues might look a little bit different. Working together as agents of change, we have a larger and wider perspective and are coming up with solutions. Change starts with us.

The more we come together, the more our voices become louder. Photovoice gives us a platform to share and discuss our knowledge in our communities and with our leaders, and to hold them accountable. We are inspired for change, knowing that we’re not the only ones facing these kinds of problems.

As young people how do we come together to confront the challenges we face? As community members? As leaders? What is your contribution in changing the societal problems we are facing? Why should anyone be silent when there is a lot that they can say? When will change occur? Will it be centuries, or months? What can you do to spread love, not hate?

Our photos urge you to be a part of our vision for change.

Our photos urge you to be a part of our vision for change.

After reading the captions, don’t just keep it in your head: Be open-minded. Be willing to hear and adapt. Start by making a small change. Go out and take action. Learn what strategies exist. Implement policies. Work across generations, so that change can be sustainable.

We want people to start daring conversations to shift destructive societal norms. Focus on the future. We want change that will create a more inclusive, equal, and welcoming society.

We believe in the power of love.

First

Click here to view the full exhibition.

Making Cellphilms on Gender Futures

The second half of day 2 started with a cellphilm making workshop led by Shannon Walsh, UBC. Making a cellphilm is all about creating short, impactful films using mobile phones or tablets. Originally developed as a participatory method to explore social issues, cellphilms give everyone a voice and a chance to experiment, collaborate, and express themselves.

In the workshop cellphilms were used to explore how gender showed up in the participants everyday life, and what it could look like in the future. The session was divided into 7 steps:

Step 1: Hunting for Gender in the World

Participants got into small groups and explored the areas around the hotel. They observed and documented gender representation in objects, advertisements, behaviours, or spaces.

Step 2: Group (Popcorn) Discussion

Once the groups returned from their explorations, they gathered to share their observations. The conversation focused on two main areas:

• What did you find in terms of representations of gender?

• What felt different or unexpected?

Step 3: Intro to the Cellphilming and Key Themes

The group was introduced to the following questions: Where do we see gender, both here and at home? What alternative futures might we imagine?

Followed by a brief presentation on what is cellphilming, the steps required to make a cellphilm and how these videos can be used for social change.

Step 4: Storyboarding and Concept Development

Following the presentation, participants organized into groups to begin the planning phase. Each group focused on the prompt “Imagine Gender Futures,” working together to create storyboards for their cellphilms. This step allowed the teams to refine their concepts and map out a visual plan before starting the production process.

Step 5: Cellphilm Production

Once the storyboards were complete, groups moved into the production phase, filming in various locations around the hotel and the surrounding area. The participants were encouraged to be resourceful with their environments, using available props and incorporating improvisation to bring their scripts to life. This session focused on hands-on creativity and experimental storytelling.

Step 6: Reflection and Wrap-Up

After filming concluded, the groups gathered to discuss the experience. The conversation centered on the practicalities of the process, including the specific challenges and unexpected successes encountered in the field. The session closed with a broader reflection on the project’s impact, specifically addressing the question: “What did you learn?”

DAY 3 – GOING FORWARD

Day 3 began with the screening of the cellphilms produced during Day 2. The screening process involved having each of the 6 groups come up and introduce their cellphilms. After screening the film, makers had a chance to talk about their process.

Youth Leadership Through Zine Making

Naomi Nichols (Trent University) led this workshop, beginning with a presentation about youth leadership and youth engagement. This then transitioned into a Zine making Workshop.

The activity encouraged groups to reflect on their existing expertise, while highlighting how their perspectives had evolved during the Summit. Participants were asked to make the Zine based of the following questions:

• What strategies have enabled effective advocacy?

• What strategies have enabled impactful public education or awareness raising?

• What strategies have resulted in changes (e.g., to policies or practices)?

• What practices or approaches have felt empowering to you?

Introduction to the Travelling Exhibition

After lunch participants had the opportunity to walk around and see the exhibition they had curated.

The Travelling Exhibition Kit

Building on the momentum of the afternoon, the group was introduced to the Travelling Exhibition Kit by Lisa Wiebesiek and Jen Thompson. Thoughtfully designed for portability, the kit included essential supplies such as rope and bulldog clips, alongside A4-sized prints of the 30 primary exhibition images and the full collection of 100 Photovoice photos.

These materials were provided so that participants could host their own exhibitions and facilitate local activities within their respective communities.

What did we learn and what are next steps: Site based discussions

Each site, led by its designated site lead, participated in a planning session to outline future directions particularly in relation to the travelling exhibition.

Choosing Site Representatives

Following these sessions, each site elected a youth representative to join the TRANSFORM Leadership Committee.

Closing Session

The summit culminated in a memorable closing ceremony, where young leaders celebrated their dedication and invaluable contributions. Each participant proudly received official certificates, recognizing their active involvement and flourishing leadership in shaping the program.

Cultural Calabash

To wrap up the final day of the summit, Tuka Sikhakhane (Hlathikhulu) and Queeng (Uthingo Network) teamed up with other participants to host a “Cultural Calabash.” Together, they coordinated a vibrant runway presentation where each site had the opportunity to honour and represent their traditional cultural garments. The celebration continued with energetic dances performed by the participants, ending the summit on a truly fun and joyful note.

Want to listen to the play list? You can do it here.

DAY 4 – TRANSFORM LEADERSHIP COMMITTEEE

MEETING

The inaugural meeting of the TRANSFORM Leadership Committee (TLC) took place on Day 4 of the summit. As a core part of the TRANSFORM governance structure, the TLC was designed to inform a youth-informed agenda for the partnership’s activities. The TLC replaced the traditional “Steering Committee” model in favour this more dynamic, youthfriendly, and youth-informed framework. The committee strives to be a responsive and evolving entity that could best capture the momentum of young people’s involvement within TRANSFORM.

left to right:

Murray (Community Organizer), Brian Sibeko-Ngidi (Uthingo Network), Lindelani Zuma (Uthingo Network), Relebohile Moletsane (University of KwaZulu-Natal), Geetanjali Gil (University of the Fraser Valley), Claudia Mitchell (McGill University), Jen Thompson (McGill University, Keira O’brien (Wentworth, South Africa), Lisa Star (Lethbridge University) Shannon Walsh (University of British Columbia), Anne Cockroft (McGill University), Angelo Bernard (Canada) Middle: Abdulai Sahid Tencoid Conteh

Not Pictured: Brenda Cecilia Ojinaga Zapata (Mexico), Ellah Tambalaweko (Malawi), Mandisa Minenhle Mkhize (Uthingo Network), Khalid Moses (Jos, Nigeria), Bilkisu Ibrahim (Bauchi, Nigeria).

SUMMIT LEGACY

The summit has sparked a wonderful variety of projects including community events, magazines, workshops, documentaries, and exhibitions. These outputs are a testament to the work the young people continue to lead in their home communities. By sharing these creative pieces and public events, they are not just documenting the summit but are showcasing their ongoing commitment to making a real-world impact.

Stories from the Summit

There is no better way to understand the impact of this work than to hear it directly from the participants themselves. This webinar offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the summit’s real-world influence, allowing you to listen to the voices of the young people who are at the heart of this collaboration.

The recording of the webinar can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/ATsh-OZi-Jk

News Magazine Special Issue from the Summit

Issue 3 of the TRANSFORM News Magazine focused on the experiences and accounts of youth that attended the summit. In this issue there are pictures from the participants, and

their personal reflection on what they have learned and how it is impacting their lives in the months after the summit. Read the issue here.

TRANSFORM Documentary

Shot over three incredible days in Durban, South Africa, this short film captures the heart of the TRANSFORM Youth Summit where young leaders came together to reimagine gender and social change. Through art, storytelling, and participatory filmmaking, these powerful youth voices shared their visions, built global connections, and led bold conversations about transforming the future. Watch TRANSFORMING GENDER: Youth Voices for Social Change and experience the energy, creativity, and unstoppable momentum of a generation driving change together. Video created by Vinnie Salanji & Liam Whitcher.

Click here to watch the video.

RESOURCES

For additional resources and detailed information regarding our work, please visit the official TRANSFORM Project website: https://www.mcgill.ca/participatory-cultures-lab/transform

To receive the latest updates and stories from across our network, you can register for the TRANSFORM News Magazine here: https://e1.envoke.com/ext/pages/45d992a10b94167462966c4a57d3bf9c

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/participatorycultureslab/ pcl.education@mcgill.ca

APPENDIX

Participants who attended the Summit:

Hlathikhulu, South Africa

Kuhlekonke Ngobese

Andiswa Sikhakhane

Mexico

Brenda Cecilia Ojinaga Zapata

Miguel Ángel Sosme Campos

Snethezeko Khumalo Canada

Nomathemba Hlela

Londeka Nene

Anathi Dladla

Nompilo Mchunu

Mnqobi Sithole

Nontuthuko Hlomuka

Bauchi, Nigeria

Angelo Brenard

Uthingo Network

Sibusiso Mahlinza

Asanda Dlamini

Teboho Phutswana

Mandisa Minenhle Mkhize

Uyanda Sibisi

Bilkisu Ibrahim Joga Avuye Sapho

Muhammad Sani Abdullahi

Jos, Nigeria

Blessing Azhime Moses

Aphiwe Mathabela

Lungile Mthembu

Nomvelo Gumede

Kalid Muhammad Adam Lerato Sefumi

Sierra Leone

Abdulai Sahid Tencoid Conteh

OraGlwe Ngubeni

Ziyanda Mkhize

Bintu Dumbuya Malawi

Wentworth, South Africa

Ellah Tambalaweko

Keira O’brien Taonga Mtambo

Researchers & Facilitators

Lisa Starr Lethbridge University

Claudia Mitchell

McGill University

Shannon Walsh University of British Columbia

Anne Cockcroft

Relebohile Moletsane

McGill University

University of KwaZulu-Natal

Geetanjali Gil University of Fraser Valley

Naomi Nichols Trent University

Jen Thompson

Angela MacDonald

Ruby Boston-GriSiths

Banele Zulu

Nkonzo Mkhize

Samkelisiwe Luthuli

Marian Murray

Lindelani Zuma

Brian Sibeko -Ngidi

Lisa Weibesiek

Sadiyya Hafejee

McGill University

McGill University

Facilitator (Sierra Leone)

University of KwaZulu-Natal

University of KwaZulu-Natal

University of KwaZulu-Natal

Community Organizer (South Africa)

Uthingo Network

Uthingo Network

University of KwaZulu-Natal

University of Johannesburg