The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, convened on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, attracting a diverse assembly of Consuls-General from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, and leaders from politics, business, and academia. The event underscored Hong Kong's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and showcased youth contributions to international affairs.
Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, delivered the welcoming address, emphasizing the club's long-standing dedication to youth development. With support from the Hong Kong SAR Government, Mytheast Youth Club has partnered with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN to deliver the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP), which offers immersive training at the UN European Headquarters in Geneva. The launch ceremony marks a follow-up initiative, 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 commitment to youth development 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. Zimbabwe has faced challenges like land degradation and climate change, but through initiatives such as the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture programme and promotion of drought-tolerant traditional grains, it has enhanced agricultural productivity and food security. He stressed that sustainability is an investment that creates jobs, ensures food security, and attracts responsible investment. 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, spoke on behalf of the Consul General, highlighting Nigeria's sustainable development practices. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming, drought-resistant crops, and agroforestry to secure food supplies and restore degraded lands. In renewable energy, the "Solar Power Naija" initiative aims to deliver clean electricity to millions of households, 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 a strategic initiative with UNITAR, granting young people 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, Biology Panel Head at Hong Kong True Light College, integrates his UN training into education, focusing on experiential learning and conservation of endangered Chinese species. He stated, "Education is not merely about imparting knowledge. It is about cultivating empathy, evidence-based thinking, and the agency to change the world." Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working in youth mental health, hopes to bring UN inclusive values back to Hong Kong to illuminate forgotten corners with empathy. 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. Ms. Wan Man Yan and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth development, emphasizing education and empowerment.
The launch ceremony marks the official start of a series of youth sustainable development forums, which will bring together representatives from different regions and industries to share their contributions. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainable development and youth empowerment, ensuring Hong Kong youth have a voice on the international stage.
