By Jessica (17) and Andrea (17), from Guatemala
Every day, thousands of adolescents leave behind their homes, their schools, their friends, and their stories to migrate to another country. They do so with the hope of a better future, seeking opportunities they might not find in their homeland. For many families, migration has become something common, almost a necessity. But behind every suitcase and every goodbye, there is a story of courage, dreams, and challenges.
What do adolescents who migrate experience?
Migrating as an adolescent is not easy. It means starting over, adapting to a different world, and facing realities that can be painful. Sometimes, migration comes with vulnerability, because young people may be more prone to labor exploitation, abuse, or discrimination.
There is also the challenge of integration, learning new rules, languages, and customs, which can cause anxiety or stress. Some adolescents face barriers in accessing health care, education, or emotional support, especially if they lack documentation or if language becomes a barrier. And of course, there is isolation, the loneliness of not having friends, of feeling “from another place.” All of this can affect mental health, motivation, and even dreams.
But despite everything, migrant adolescents have enormous strength. They adapt, learn, fight, and build new paths. And if they receive the support they deserve, they can reach their full potential.
In Guatemala, migration is a common experience for many youth as they seek better opportunities abroad.
How can others help migrating adolescents’ identity and hope?
- Emotional and psychological support programs: Migrant adolescents need safe spaces where they can express what they feel, heal, and adapt with guidance. Mental health and sexual health are deeply connected.
- Inclusive education and training: Teaching the language, culture, and rights of the new country helps strengthen their confidence and facilitates integration.
Cultural workshops, language classes, and educational guidance can change lives. - Protection and safety: Creating prevention and support programs for victims of abuse or exploitation is essential. No adolescent should migrate in fear.
- Access to health and rights: Every adolescent, regardless of nationality or migratory status, must be able to access confidential, safe, and high-quality health services: contraception, care during pregnancy, STI prevention, and support in cases of sexual violence. The right to health has no borders.
- Joining forces: When governments, organizations, and communities work together, bridges of hope are built.
Monitoring, improving, and strengthening programs for migrant adolescents ensures that their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Migrating should not mean losing oneself, but finding oneself.
Adolescent migration is not a game, but neither is it a sentence. It is a complex reality that can be transformed if we act with empathy, solidarity, and commitment. Every young migrant has the right to a dignified, safe life full of opportunities. Because protecting their identity also means protecting their dreams, their roots, and their future.
Global Catalyst mentors girls around the world to become powerful advocates and confident leaders. Our signature program, GLOW Club, connects girls in some of the world’s most underserved areas with trusted local mentors and a safe space to express themselves as they develop their agency, find their voice, and build their power. Since our founding, we’ve ignited the power of more than 100,000 girls, sparking a growing movement of youth-led change that is transforming communities — and the world — for the better.
