The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, was held on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong, marking a significant step in engaging youth in global sustainability efforts. The event brought together Consuls-General and representatives from Zimbabwe and Nigeria, Legislative Council members, the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive's Policy Unit, and leaders from sectors including property development, aviation, banking, trade, tourism, finance, innovation, healthcare, law, and education. Together, they explored how Hong Kong can effectively implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlighted 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 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. Mr. 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 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 droughts, but highlighted initiatives like the "Pfumvudza/Intwasa" climate-smart agriculture programme, which has enhanced productivity and food security. He emphasized that sustainability is an investment that creates jobs 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, presented Nigeria's sustainable development practices on behalf of the Consul General. Nigeria has invested 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 action plans. Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, introduced the UNYDP, one of the few programmes 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." Delegate Chu Wai Lun detailed integrating UN training into Hong Kong True Light College, focusing on experiential learning and citizen science. Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working in youth mental health, called for society to become attentive companions for those suffering from bullying or violence. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen highlighted the interconnectedness of the SDGs and promoted public education on low-carbon living. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the "H.E.A.L." initiative supporting female refugees. Ms. Wan Man Yan Silver and Ms. Xiao Ting shared visions on animal conservation and youth empowerment, respectively.
The Launch Ceremony marks the official start of a series of youth sustainable development forums, which will bring together representatives from enterprises, organizations, and young people across regions and industries. The event demonstrated the pathway for Hong Kong youth to actively participate in international affairs as Chinese citizens. 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 on the international stage.
