The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, convened on July 31, 2026, in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in engaging youth in global sustainable development. The event attracted Consuls-General and representatives from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit, and leaders from various sectors including politics, property development, aviation, banking, trade, tourism, finance, innovation, healthcare, law, and education. Together, they explored strategies for Hong Kong to effectively implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and showcased the achievements of Hong Kong youth in international affairs.
In his welcoming speech, Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, emphasized the club's long-standing dedication to youth development. With support from the Hong Kong SAR Government, Mytheast Youth Club has organized numerous youth programs and partnered with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN to deliver the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP). This program 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 offer 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.
The summit featured international perspectives, starting with H.E. Mr. Ellias Mutamba, Consul General of Zimbabwe in Hong Kong, who shared his country's experiences in sustainable agriculture and community-based natural resource management. Zimbabwe faces challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and recurring droughts. Through initiatives like the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture program, promotion of drought-tolerant traditional grains, improved water management, and integrated farming systems, Zimbabwe has successfully enhanced agricultural productivity and ensured food security. Mr. Mutamba emphasized that sustainability is an investment, not a cost, as it 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, sharing Nigeria's practical experiences in advancing sustainable development. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming practices, promoting drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation systems, and agroforestry initiatives that 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 reliance on fossil fuels and creating green jobs. Mrs. Onuoha emphasized that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.
Youth participants shared their experiences from UN training to local action. 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 jointly launched by GBAMUN and UNITAR, one of the few programs granting direct access to core UN resources. He remarked, "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." Several UNYDP participants presented their action plans. Delegate Chu Wai Lun detailed integrating UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, where he leads initiatives on experiential learning and conservation of endangered Chinese species. Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working in youth mental health, called for societal consensus to support victims of hidden bullying and sexual violence. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of SDGs, drawing on Geneva's low-carbon living examples. 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 empowerment.
The Launch Ceremony marks the official commencement of a series of youth sustainable development forums, which will bring 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, ensuring Hong Kong youth's voice is heard internationally.
