USICD Youth Advisory Committee

A diverse group of youth with disabilities standing together outdoors, smiling and confident. One person uses a wheelchair, another holds a white cane, and one wears hearing aids. A participant wears a t-shirt with pride colors, while another sports a pride pin on their jacket. The scene radiates energy, solidarity, and joy—capturing the spirit of USICD’s new Youth Advisory Committee.

USICD is proud to launch the Youth Advisory Committee (UYAC)—a dynamic platform for emerging leaders with disabilities ages 18–30 who are passionate about global disability rights, inclusion, and the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).

This committee offers youth a unique opportunity to collaborate, advocate, and shape USICD’s international work. Members will engage in monthly virtual meetings and contribute to projects that empower youth globally to create lasting change.

Purpose & Objectives

The UYAC exists to:

  • Amplify youth voices within USICD’s governance and programming.
  • Promote awareness and global implementation of the CRPD.
  • Propose and lead international disability rights projects.
  • Build youth advocacy and leadership capacity through collaboration.
  • Identify and develop youth-led initiatives that align with the committee’s mission.

Committee Structure

  • Members will represent diverse backgrounds and disability experiences.
  • The committee will be supported by USICD’s Board of Directors and staff.
  • Projects developed by the UYAC will be submitted for board approval and supported through potential fundraising efforts

Eligibility

Applicants must:

  • Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
  • Identify as a person with a disability.
  • Demonstrate a passion for disability rights and international advocacy.
  • Commit to attending virtual meetings and participating in committee activities.

We strongly encourage applications from youth of diverse ethnicities, identities, and experiences—including LGBTQIA+ youth and those with disabilities across all communities and regions.

Application Deadline

Submit your completed application by 11:59 PM ET on August 1, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified in August and invited to begin their one-year term.

Download the application [MS Word Format]

Questions?

Please reach out to the UYAC Chair, Jakeel Abdullah, at jakeel.abdullah@usicd.org with questions or access needs. We are committed to ensuring a fully inclusive application process and committee experience.

Donate to Support the UYAC

Please consider donating to:

  • Support the Committee’s youth-led initiatives.
  • Cover administrative expenses.
  • Fund reasonable accommodations for the UYAC, e.g. Sign Language Interpreters and CART captioning
DONATE