On November 18, Othering & Belonging Institute Director john a. powell served as the keynote speaker at the 2024 Global Opportunity Youth Network (GOYN) convening in Pune, Maharashtra, India. His keynote presentation, "Belonging in Practice: Shaping Inclusive Systems Throughout the World," reflects on the many forms of othering as well as the tactics, frameworks, and infrastructures that we must build to make belonging a global norm.
The fifth annual convening — which took place November 17 to 21, 2025 — was presented under the theme: "Transforming Youth Livelihoods: Pathways to Full Potential." GOYN's mission is to guide youth toward personal success, wellbeing, financial sustainability, and help them become change-makers with a strong sense of agency. They focus on providing the tools, opportunities, and resources they need to shape their futures — building strong identities, life assets, and dignified livelihoods. Central to this mission is creating sustainable economic opportunities, ensuring every young person can contribute to and benefit from a thriving global economy. Together, we address systemic barriers like inequality and discrimination, fostering equitable outcomes for Opportunity Youth.