Who are we

Novar Network is a youth-led, policy-focused platform dedicated to giving young people a seat and a say in shaping the policies that govern their lives. Guided by the belief that diplomacy is a language and dialogue its method, Novar bridges diverse perspectives to transform ideas into action and influence into impact. Through meaningful dialogue, research, and collaboration, we empower the next generation of thinkers and leaders to not just participate in change, but to define it and shape the future of policy and diplomacy.

Our Motive, Mantra & Map

Our Motive (Why We Exist)

Novar Network was founded on a clear belief: young people deserve not just a seat at the table, but a voice that shapes the agenda. We exist to lift the barriers preventing youth from influencing diplomacy and policy, ensuring that the decisions shaping tomorrow reflect the creativity, courage, and perspectives of the next generation. Our motive is to turn dialogue into action, ideas into policy, and participation into genuine power.

Our Mantra (How We Work)

At Novar, we bring young leaders together across borders and disciplines to turn dialogue into action. We believe meaningful change begins with listening, exchanging ideas, and building understanding, and grows through collaborative research, policy-focused conversation, and constructive advocacy. Every interaction is designed to equip youth with the skills, networks, and confidence to influence decisions and shape the policies that govern their lives.

Our Map (Where We Are Going)

From a student initiative at the University of Birmingham to a global network of youth changemakers, Novar’s journey reflects both evolution and purpose. Our map spans local dialogues, national initiatives, and international platforms, guided by a single mission: empower young people to influence the policies and decisions that shape their lives. As we expand across regions, our direction remains clear — foster diplomacy rooted in dialogue, evidence, and collaboration, and turn youth voices into tangible action and impact.

Our Mission, vision & Values

Our Mission (What We Want)

Our mission is to make diplomacy accessible to young people, enabling them to shape the policies that define their future through meaningful and constructive dialogue.

Our Vision (Why It Matters)

We vision a world where youth voices are central to public policy and diplomacy, thus shaping fairer, more inclusive, and forward-thinking societies.

Our Values (What Guides Us)

  • Inclusion: Every voice matters, regardless of nationality, gender, or background.  

  • Integrity: We lead with honesty, transparency, and accountability.

  • Dialogue: Conversation is the foundation of understanding and peace.

  • Empowerment: We create opportunities for youth to learn, lead, and influence.

  • Collaboration: Progress is built through shared purpose and partnership.

  • Sustainability: We strive for long-lasting impact that respects people, culture, and the planet.

Our History

Novar Network is led by a diverse group of compassionate young activists, leaders, and policy advocates who, through years of social and political engagement, recognized a significant gap in the mainstream policy and diplomacy arenas: the voices of youth were largely absent. Too often, young people are excluded from shaping the policies and laws that will define their futures.

Guided by this insight, the founders envisioned a platform where youth perspectives are not only welcomed, but actively amplified. Their lived experiences of social and political exclusion, stemming from factors such as gender, nationality, ethnicity, and age, have fuelled a commitment to inclusion and equity. Novar is designed to provide young changemakers with the opportunity to raise their voices, be heard, and meaningfully participate in shaping policies, regardless of background or affiliation.

 

Novar Network began as an informal society at the University of Birmingham, bringing together a global cohort of enthusiastic young changemakers from dozens of nations across all continents. The initial aim was simple yet ambitious: to create a space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration among youth passionate about social change and policy.

Recognizing the potential for broader impact, the Founder Director, Rafiq Khalili, along with other members, formalized their vision and mission, establishing Novar Network in 2025 as a platform with aspirations to expand from the UK to regional and international levels. At its core, Novar combines dialogue and diplomacy with skill-building and opportunities for young people to influence policies at both national and international levels. The organization is committed to empowering youth across all continents to engage meaningfully with the systems that shape their world.

''Dialogue is our method. Diplomacy is our language. Policy is our outcome."

Rafiq Khalili - Novar Network's Founder and Director