On May 31, 2017, Hurford Youth Fellow, Johnson Yeung facilitated an online discussion on how to advance mutual understanding within democratic movements and maintain effective communication between masses. The online discussion explores how horizontal leadership structures within movements influence the effectiveness of broader democracy building efforts. Additionally, the conversation examines strategies for strengthening and consolidating democracy, looking at lessons learned and best practices from South Africa’s student-led Fees Must Fall Movement, and Taiwan’s Sunflower Movement.

Yeung, who shares his experience as a student leader in Hong Kong’s 2014 Umbrella Movement, is accompanied by Kgotsi Chikane, President of South Africa’s InkuluFreeHeid and Eeling Chiu, Secretary General of the Taiwan Association for Human Rights. The discussants share their experiences using inclusivity and solidarity to drive successful mobilization for social justice issues as well as advocate for youth participation in democratic reforms.

Click here to learn more about the pro-democracy youth activists and watch the discussion.