The 'Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony,' organized by Mytheast Youth Club, took place on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, convening 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 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's development.
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. Zimbabwe faces challenges including land degradation, climate change, and recurring droughts. Through initiatives such as the 'Pfumvudza/Intwasa' climate-smart agriculture programme, promotion of drought-tolerant traditional grains, improved water management, and integrated farming systems, Zimbabwe has enhanced agricultural productivity and ensured food security. He stressed 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 the Consulate General of Nigeria in Hong Kong, delivered a speech on behalf of the Consul General, sharing Nigeria's practices in advancing sustainable development. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming, promoting drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation, and agroforestry to 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 for youth. 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 UNYDP, a strategic initiative jointly launched by GBAMUN and UNITAR, one of the few youth training programs granting direct access to core United Nations 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 how he integrates UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, where he leads initiatives on experiential learning, conservation of endangered Chinese species, and citizen science programs. 'Education is not merely about imparting knowledge,' he emphasized. 'It is about cultivating empathy, evidence-based thinking, and the agency to change the world.' Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, who works in youth mental health, hopes to bring the UN's inclusive values back to Hong Kong to support those affected by hidden bullying or sexual violence. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen drew on the 'Imacocollabo' simulation game and Geneva's low-carbon living to call for stronger public education in Hong Kong. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the 'H.E.A.L.' initiative to support female refugees and victims of domestic violence. 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 efforts and contributions. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainable development and ensure that the voice of Hong Kong youth is heard internationally.
