The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, took place on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, bringing together political, business, and academic leaders to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The event featured speeches by Consuls-General of Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, and the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit, among others, highlighting the role of 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, emphasized the club's dedication to youth development. He noted the partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN to deliver the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP), which provides immersive training at the UN European Headquarters in Geneva. The launch ceremony serves as a follow-up, enabling participants to translate their UN learning into tangible societal contributions and policy recommendations for Hong Kong and the nation.
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. He highlighted challenges like land degradation and climate change, and initiatives such as the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture programme, which has enhanced agricultural productivity and food security. He stressed that sustainability is an investment that creates jobs and protects ecosystems, inviting Hong Kong enterprises to explore partnerships in climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and eco-tourism.
Mrs. Millicent U. Onuoha, Consul of Nigeria, delivered a speech on behalf of the Consul General, discussing Nigeria's sustainable development practices. She mentioned investments in climate-smart farming, drought-resistant crops, and agroforestry, as well as the "Solar Power Naija" initiative to expand renewable energy access. She encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration for a sustainable future.
Youth participants shared their UNYDP experiences. Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, recalled his first Model UN conference at age twelve, which inspired his dedication to youth international education. He introduced the UNYDP as a strategic initiative providing direct access to UN resources, stating, "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 how he integrates UN training into his teaching at Hong Kong True Light College, focusing on experiential learning and conservation of endangered species. "Education is not merely about imparting knowledge," he said. "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, called for societal consensus to support vulnerable youth. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of SDGs, drawing on Geneva's low-carbon practices. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the "H.E.A.L." initiative for female refugees and domestic violence victims. Ms. Wan Man Yan and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth empowerment.
The launch marks the beginning of a series of youth sustainable development forums, aiming to bridge international cooperation. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with UNITAR and other partners, ensuring Hong Kong youth voices are heard globally.
