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 aimed to explore effective implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlight Hong Kong youth's achievements in international affairs.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, underscored the club's longstanding commitment to youth development. He noted the support of the Hong Kong SAR Government and partnerships with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN to deliver the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP), which offers 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 societal contributions and policy recommendations for Hong Kong and the nation. Mr. Lam reaffirmed the club's dedication to fostering youth development and contributing Chinese wisdom to global sustainability.
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 such as land degradation, climate change, and droughts, and outlined initiatives like the 'Pfumvudza/Intwasa' climate-smart agriculture programme, promotion of drought-tolerant grains, and improved water management. He emphasized that sustainability is an investment that creates jobs, ensures food security, and attracts responsible investment, welcoming 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, detailing Nigeria's sustainable development practices. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming, drought-resistant crops, and agroforestry, as well as expanding solar and wind power through initiatives like 'Solar Power Naija' to provide clean electricity and create green jobs. She stressed that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.
Youth participants shared their UNYDP experiences. Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, recounted his first Model UN at age twelve, which inspired his dedication to youth international education. He introduced UNYDP as a strategic initiative with UNITAR, one of the few programmes granting direct access to UN resources. Delegate Chu Wai Lun detailed integrating UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, focusing on experiential learning and conservation of endangered species. Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working in youth mental health, advocated for inclusive values and empathy. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen called for stronger public education on SDGs, citing 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 empowerment, respectively.
The launch ceremony marks the beginning of a series of forums that will bring together stakeholders across regions to share sustainable development efforts. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainability and ensure Hong Kong youth's voices are heard internationally.
