HONG KONG – The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, took place on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in engaging youth in global sustainability efforts. The event convened Consuls-General from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit, and leaders from politics, property, aviation, banking, trade, tourism, finance, innovation, healthcare, law, and education. Their collective focus was on how Hong Kong can effectively implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and showcase the achievements of local youth in international affairs.
Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, opened the ceremony by highlighting the club's long-term 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). 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, enabling participants to turn their UN learning into tangible societal contributions and policy recommendations for Hong Kong and the nation. Lam reaffirmed the club's commitment to supporting youth 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 natural resource management. Zimbabwe faces challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and droughts. Through the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture program, promotion of drought-tolerant grains, improved water management, and integrated farming, Zimbabwe has enhanced agricultural productivity and food security. Mutamba emphasized that sustainability is an investment that 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 Nigeria, spoke on behalf of the Consul General, detailing Nigeria's sustainable development practices. Nigeria invests in climate-smart farming, drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation, 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, reducing fossil fuel reliance and creating green jobs for youth. She stressed that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.
Youth participants shared their UN learning and local actions. Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, recalled his first Model UN at age twelve, which inspired his dedication to youth international education. He introduced UNYDP as a strategic initiative granting direct access to UN resources. "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," he said.
Delegate Chu Wai Lun integrates his UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, leading experiential learning and citizen science programs. "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 works on youth mental health, advocating for inclusive values and empathy. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted SDG interconnectedness, drawing from Geneva's low-carbon practices. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the "H.E.A.L." initiative supporting female refugees and domestic violence victims through online courses and art therapy. Ms. Wan Man Yan and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth empowerment.
The Launch Ceremony marks the start of a series of youth sustainable development forums, bringing together enterprises, organizations, and young people to share their contributions. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges with UNITAR and other partners, ensuring Hong Kong youth's voice is heard internationally.
