Youth
Youth representatives from MenEngage networks around the world have been convening as the global Youth Reference Group since 2016. The Youth Reference Group comprises young activists, experts and leaders who hold a crucial role in steering the Alliance’s work at local, national, regional and international levels.
Members of the Youth Reference Group are nominated by regional MenEngage networks and representatives of At-Large members.
Youth Reference Group
Irene Ogeta (she/her)
Irene Ogeta is a passionate young feminist advocate and Program Officer for Young Women's Advocacy, Membership, and Development at ATHENA Network. With a strong commitment to gender justice and youth leadership, she also serves on the MenEngage Global Alliance Board and Youth Reference Group, where she works to ensure that youth voices—especially those of young women—are meaningfully represented in global conversations around gender justice, masculinities, and accountability.
It’s a rare and powerful experience to be in spaces where leadership, expertise, and lived experience—especially from young people—are truly valued. I’m proud to serve as one of the youngest members of the MenEngage Global Board, a space that actively embraces feminist principles of inclusion, equity, and shared power. Being part of this cross-generational leadership space is not only an honor, but a reminder of the importance of centering youth voices in our collective struggle for gender and social justice.
Alex Nelson (he/him)
Alex Nelson is a gender justice advocate with a Master's in International Human Rights at the University of Denver. With a strong foundation in qualitative research, writing, and community organizing, he seeks to integrate intersectional feminism across spaces and contexts. As a member of the YRG, Alex spearheads a MenEngage NAMEN Chapter at the Korbel School. He is also an avid public speaker and learner of foreign languages.
Oppressions may differ in form but can also produce overlapping frustrations. This is why we must start engaging with men within spaces and contexts that are most familiar to them. That way, conversations around gender justice can achieve relevance within the fabric of their daily lives.
Shalinee Bahadur (she/her)
Shalinee Bahadur is a young Indo-Caribbean activist committed to the struggle for gender justice and social change. Based in Trinidad and Tobago, Shalinee is the Administrator for the Caribbean Male Action Network (CariMAN) which is a network of individuals and organizations in the Caribbean working on transforming masculinities. She is also a youth representative on the Global MenEngage Youth Reference Group. As an advocate in the space for over five years, she continues to use her knowledge to help empower others.
The work being done to transform masculinities in the Caribbean is not just important, it's essential. It's about creating a future where everyone can thrive and it’s inspiring to see the impact this work is having on individuals, families, and communities.