At the 2026 Copenhagen Summit, a panel called 'Youth & AI: Where We Go' brought together researchers and youth advocates to talk honestly about AI and kids.
The clearest takeaway? Technology isn't the biggest risk factor for a child's mental health. Weak relationships are.
The experts pointed to one thing that consistently protects young people as they navigate screens, algorithms, and an AI-shaped world: strong IRL connections. Real people. Consistent presence. Someone who shows up.
That's exactly what our volunteers do every week.
We give the children we support access to devices and digital tools so they're not left behind. But it's the volunteer sitting with them, preparing for an exam, talking through a problem, just being there, that builds the kind of resilience no app can replicate.
If you're in Japan and want to be that person for a young person who needs it, we'd love to have you. DM us or visit youmewenpo.org to learn how to get involved.
#YouMeWeNPO #YouthEmpowerment #DigitalInclusion #SocialImpact #fortheyouth
