The Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony, organized by Mytheast Youth Club, took place on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong. The event gathered Consuls-General and representatives 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. The focus was on how Hong Kong can effectively implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and showcase the achievements of Hong Kong youth in international affairs.
In his opening remarks, 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 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 to UNYDP, enabling participants to apply their learning to societal contributions and policy recommendations. Mr. Lam reaffirmed the club's commitment to youth development 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. Zimbabwe faces challenges such as land degradation, climate change, and recurring droughts. Through initiatives like 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 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, spoke on behalf of the Consul General, sharing Nigeria's sustainable development practices. Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming, promoting drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation, and agroforestry. 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. She emphasized that sustainable development is a practical pathway to prosperity and encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration.
Youth participants shared their experiences. 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 with UNITAR, 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, where he leads initiatives on experiential learning, conservation of endangered Chinese species, and citizen science. He emphasized that education is about cultivating empathy, evidence-based thinking, and agency to change the world. Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa, working in youth mental health, called for society to become attentive companions to those suffering from hidden bullying or sexual violence. Mr. Ng Siu Yuen shared insights on SDG interconnectedness, referencing the 'Imacocollabo' simulation game and Geneva's low-carbon practices. Ms. Yau Ho Laam presented the 'H.E.A.L.' initiative supporting 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 ceremony marked the start of a series of youth sustainable development forums, bringing together representatives from enterprises, organizations, and young people across regions. Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainable development and youth empowerment, ensuring Hong Kong youth's voice is heard internationally.
