The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, was held on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong. The event brought together Consuls-General and representatives of Zimbabwe and Nigeria, several 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. The focus was on how Hong Kong can effectively implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlight 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 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 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.
H.E. Mr. Ellias Mutamba, Consul General of Zimbabwe in Hong Kong, shared his country's experience in sustainable agriculture and community-based natural resource management. Zimbabwe faces challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and droughts. Through initiatives like the 'Pfumvudza/Intwasa' climate-smart agriculture program, promotion of drought-tolerant grains, improved water management, and integrated farming systems, Zimbabwe has enhanced agricultural productivity and food security. He emphasized that sustainability is an investment, creating jobs, ensuring food security, attracting responsible investment, and protecting 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, spoke on behalf of the Consul General, sharing Nigeria's sustainable development practices. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming, promoting drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation, and agroforestry. In renewable energy, the 'Solar Power Naija' initiative aims to deliver clean electricity to millions of households, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and creating green jobs. She emphasized that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.
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 the UNYDP as a strategic initiative with UNITAR, one of the few programs giving young people direct access to 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 shared their learning outcomes and action plans. Delegate Chu Wai Lun, Biology Panel Head at Hong Kong True Light College, integrates UN training into education, focusing on experiential learning, conservation of endangered species, and citizen science. "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, hopes to bring the UN's inclusive values to Hong Kong. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of SDGs, drawing from UN simulations 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, respectively.
The launch ceremony marks the start of a series of youth sustainable development forums. Future forums will bring together representatives from enterprises, organizations, and young people to share their contributions to sustainable development. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges with UNITAR and other partners, ensuring the voice of Hong Kong youth is heard on the international stage.
