Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launches in Hong Kong, Uniting Global Leaders for SDG Action

The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, convened on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, marking a pivotal step in advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event gathered Consuls-General and representatives from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit, and leaders from diverse sectors including politics, property development, aviation, banking, trade, tourism, finance, innovation, healthcare, law, and education. Collectively, they explored practical pathways for Hong Kong to implement the SDGs, while highlighting the achievements of Hong Kong youth in international affairs.

In his welcoming address, Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, underscored the club's longstanding dedication to youth development. With support from the Hong Kong SAR Government, Mytheast Youth Club has organized numerous youth programmes and partnered with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN to deliver the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP). This programme provides immersive training at the UN European Headquarters in Geneva, equipping young people with international perspectives and diplomatic skills. The Launch Ceremony serves as a follow-up to the UNYDP, enabling participants to translate their UN learning into tangible societal contributions and policy recommendations for Hong Kong and the nation. Mr. Lam reaffirmed the club's commitment to supporting youth development and contributing Chinese wisdom to global sustainable development.

H.E. Mr. Ellias Mutamba, Consul General of Zimbabwe in Hong Kong, shared his country's experiences in sustainable agriculture and community-based natural resource management. Zimbabwe confronts challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and recurrent droughts. Through initiatives like the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture programme, promotion of drought-tolerant traditional grains, improved water management, and integrated farming systems, Zimbabwe has enhanced agricultural productivity and ensured food security. He emphasized that sustainability is an investment that creates jobs, ensures food security, attracts responsible investment, and protects ecosystems. He welcomed Hong Kong enterprises to explore partnerships in climate-smart agriculture, food processing, renewable energy, and eco-tourism.

Mrs. Millicent U. Onuoha, Consul (Head of Chancery / Education) of the Consulate General of Nigeria in Hong Kong, delivered a speech on behalf of the Consul General, highlighting Nigeria's sustainable development practices. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming, promoting drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation, and agroforestry to secure food supplies and restore degraded lands. In renewable energy, Nigeria's "Solar Power Naija" initiative aims to deliver clean electricity to millions of households, reducing fossil fuel reliance and creating green jobs for youth. She emphasized that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.

Youth participants shared their UNYDP experiences. Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, recalled his first Model United Nations conference at age twelve, which inspired his dedication to youth international education. He introduced UNYDP as one of the few programmes granting direct access to UN resources. Delegate Chu Wai Lun detailed integrating UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, leading initiatives on experiential learning, conservation of endangered Chinese species, and citizen science. He stressed that education cultivates empathy and agency to change the world. Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working on youth mental health, called for society to become attentive companions, bringing UN inclusive values to Hong Kong. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of SDGs, referencing the "Imacocollabo" simulation game and Geneva's low-carbon practices. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the "H.E.A.L." initiative supporting female refugees and domestic violence victims through online courses and art therapy. Ms. Wan Man Yan and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth development, respectively.

The Launch Ceremony marks the commencement of a series of youth sustainable development forums, bringing together representatives from enterprises, organizations, and young people across regions and industries. The event demonstrated the pathway for Hong Kong youth to actively participate in international affairs as Chinese citizens. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainable development and youth empowerment.