In October 2023, the UNESCO Media and Information Literacy (MIL) Youth Hackathon brought together 95 teams from 40 countries, with over 400 participants addressing the theme of empowering youth in digital spaces. Among the standout winners was Jordan’s Youth Media Literacy Ambassadors Program (YMLAP), a testament to the potential of young leaders in fostering media literacy and combating misinformation.
Supported by UNESCO’s Multi-Donor Programme on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists, the event included a two-day online mentorship program led by global experts. This training equipped participants with crucial skills in media literacy and coding, preparing them for impactful community-based interventions.
An independent jury recognized four teams for their exceptional projects, with YMLAP earning accolades for its effective approach to enhancing media literacy in Jordan. The team, comprising Saja Sallam, Sama Qaddoumi, Mohammad Qudah, and Wasan Alabadi, demonstrated how youth-led initiatives can significantly influence their communities by promoting critical thinking and information literacy.
Saja Sallam’s personal experiences with the pervasive challenges of misinformation inspired the creation of YMLAP. The program has empowered urban youth in Jordan to become media literacy ambassadors, driving awareness and educating their peers through various campaigns and events.
A significant milestone for the team was participating in UNESCO’s mentorship program in September 2023, which underscored the importance of community engagement and culturally relevant initiatives. This experience propelled them to organize community forums and workshops, enhancing the sustainability of their efforts.
Since presenting at UNESCO’s General Conference, YMLAP has continued to evolve, integrating MIL with civic participation disciplines and participating in the U.S. Jordan Leadership Exchange program. These developments have not only expanded their network but also fortified their capacity to advance MIL education in Jordan, paving the way for new partnerships and collaborative opportunities.
The success of the Youth Media Literacy Ambassadors Program highlights the pivotal role of Jordanian youth in advancing digital literacy and fostering a more informed society, contributing to sustainable development in the digital age.
