Ishaan Shah
A 23 year-old young human-rights advocate working to strengthen youth influence in global decision-making. He combats modern slavery and human trafficking while promoting gender-equal policies in international forums.
BACKGROUND
Ishaan Shah, 23, from India, is a young human rights advocate who, from an early age, recognised the need for youth voices in shaping global policies. Driven by a commitment to justice and inclusion, he works to combat modern slavery and human trafficking while creating accessible spaces for young leaders to engage meaningfully in policy and advocacy processes.
WORK & IMPACT
Ishaan builds bridges between youth, feminist, and human rights movements, connecting these voices with decision-makers and international institutions. Through his involvement with the Women’s Major Group and broader UN processes, he strengthens youth participation in global decision-making and protects inclusive political spaces at a time of growing resistance to gender equality and human rights. His work demonstrates how strategic, collaborative youth leadership can advance justice, equality, and sustainable societies.
WHY ISHAAN IS A FINALIST
The jury selected Ishaan Shah as a finalist for the WIN WIN Youth Award 2026 for his bridge building, strategic, generous, and collaborative leadership, demonstrating how youth voices can strengthen justice, equality, and long term sustainable societies.
"I am deeply honored by this recognition, and I would like to underscore that this reflects the work of a much larger movement that has raised me. Young people across the world are working every day to advance gender equality, alongside intergenerational partners who have paved the way before us. Our efforts must be sustained, resourced, and strengthened to continue pushing forward progress on rights, justice, and equality for all."
- Ishaan Shah