The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, took place on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, gathering political, business, and academic leaders to discuss the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlight youth achievements in international affairs. The event featured Consuls-General from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, and the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit, among other prominent figures.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, underscored the club's longstanding commitment to youth development. He highlighted the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP), a partnership with the UN Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN, which offers 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, enabling participants to translate their UN learning into societal contributions and policy recommendations for Hong Kong and the nation. Mr. Lam reaffirmed the club's dedication to supporting youth and contributing Chinese wisdom to global sustainable development.
H.E. Mr. Ellias Mutamba, Consul General of Zimbabwe, shared his country's experiences in sustainable agriculture and community-based natural resource management. He detailed challenges such as land degradation and climate change, and initiatives like the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture programme that have boosted productivity and food security. He emphasized that sustainability is an investment, creating jobs and protecting ecosystems, and welcomed Hong Kong enterprises to explore partnerships in climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and eco-tourism.
Mrs. Millicent U. Onuoha, representing the Consul General of Nigeria, discussed Nigeria's sustainable development practices, including climate-smart farming, drought-resistant crops, and renewable energy projects like the "Solar Power Naija" initiative. She stressed that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.
Youth participants shared their transformative experiences. Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, recounted his first Model UN conference at age twelve and introduced the UNYDP as a strategic initiative providing direct access to UN resources. He noted, "If visiting global institutions opens the door to the world of multilateralism, our expert training gives young people the keys to walk through it with confidence."
Delegate Chu Wai Lun detailed integrating his UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, focusing on experiential learning and conservation of endangered species. He emphasized that education cultivates empathy and evidence-based thinking. Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working in youth mental health, called for inclusive values to illuminate forgotten corners. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of SDGs, drawing on Geneva's low-carbon practices, while Ms. Yau Ho Laam introduced the "H.E.A.L." initiative supporting female refugees. Ms. Wan Man Yan and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth empowerment.
The ceremony marked the beginning of a series of youth sustainable development forums, bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to share contributions. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with UNITAR and partners to promote global sustainable development and ensure the voice of Hong Kong youth is heard internationally.
