The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, took place on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, bringing together Consuls-General from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, and leaders from politics, business, and academia. The event focused on how Hong Kong can 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 the support of 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), which provides immersive training at the UN European Headquarters in Geneva. The launch ceremony serves as a follow-up initiative, enabling participants to transform their UN learning into tangible contributions to society and offer 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 noted challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and recurring droughts, and highlighted initiatives like the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture programme, which has enhanced agricultural productivity and food security. He emphasized that sustainability is an investment that creates jobs, ensures food security, and protects ecosystems, and welcomed Hong Kong enterprises to explore partnerships in climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, and eco-tourism.
Mrs. Millicent U. Onuoha, Consul of the Consulate General of Nigeria in Hong Kong, spoke on behalf of the Consul General, sharing Nigeria's practices in advancing sustainable development. She highlighted investments in climate-smart farming, drought-resistant crops, and agroforestry, as well as the "Solar Power Naija" initiative to expand renewable energy and create green jobs. She encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration for a sustainable future.
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 jointly launched by GBAMUN and UNITAR, one of the few programs granting 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 detailed integrating UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, leading initiatives on experiential learning and conservation of endangered Chinese species. He emphasized, "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, called for society to become attentive companions for those suffering from hidden bullying or violence. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of SDGs and advocated for stronger public education on low-carbon living. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the "H.E.A.L." initiative supporting female refugees through online courses and art therapy. Ms. Wan Man Yan and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth development, respectively.
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 to share their contributions. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainable development and youth empowerment, ensuring the voice of Hong Kong youth is heard internationally.
