The idea for the DIYC Movement was conceived in 2010 and launched in 2012 with the inauguration of the Diversity & Inclusion Youth Camp in Johor, Malaysia by DYMM Raja Zarith Sofiah, Permaisuri Johor. The intent was to develop a core group of youth leaders, from across the ASEAN region, who will create an epicenter for an educational movement and drive it towards building bridges for economic progress and peace for society based on the strength of diversity. Upon engaging with the youth of ASEAN, the DIYC Movement committed itself to the following thematic focuses: Entrepreneurship, Sustainability, Community Development, and Youth Advocacy.  

The result of these focuses led the Movement to create several not-for-profit programs, events, and opportunities for the ASEAN Youth to engage with various socio-economic issues. Our flagship event, the Diversity and Inclusion Youth Congress, is a biannual conference that brings together youth from the ASEAN region as well as from other participating nations to discuss diverse perspectives and potential solutions to socio-economic challenges. Inviting young leaders from different walks of life to share their thoughts enriches our ability to perceive these challenges through a lense that is inclusive of diverse perspectives. In the leadup to the Congress, the Movement is also home to its very own Business Plan Challenge, Youth Council, Roundtable Podcast, and digital community.

Our programs and events, supported by their respective strategic partners and participants, come together to form an ecosystem that is built upon the principles of diversity and inclusion. This ecosystem empowers youth from different regions, cultures, languages, and mindsets to equip themselves with the knowledge and experience to make an impact in their respective communities. The Movement’s commitment to empowering the youth to be today’s leaders is driven by our belief that the strength of this Movement lies in the abundance of differences between the individuals that make up who we are. We believe that empowering opportunities for the youth must be driven by the youth themselves. Be a part of the change that you wish to see in the world by joining the Diversity and Inclusion Youth Movement today!