World Leaders Applaud Youth Power in Driving Positive Global Change

Image Credit: UN News/SDG Fund

Each year, young people around the world step up as innovators, activists, and leaders, shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and peaceful global society. In recent months, world leaders at the United Nations and beyond have underscored the extraordinary contributions youth make toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), underlining their role as essential agents for positive global change.

Why Youth Engagement is Vital for the Sustainable Development Goals

According to the United Nations, there are over 1.8 billion people between the ages of 10 and 24. Harnessing this energy, creativity, and passion is key to advancing progress on issues ranging from climate action and social justice to technology and public health. By fostering youth leadership, governments, businesses, and NGOs can better address global challenges and build resilient communities.

High-Level Recognition of Youth Leadership

At the most recent UN General Assembly sessions, world leaders shared powerful testimonies about the impact of young advocates and entrepreneurs worldwide. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized, “Young people are constructing the future with courage and creativity.” He challenged governments to prioritize inclusive policymaking, education reforms, and meaningful youth participation at all levels of decision-making.

Other leaders noted how youth-led movements have catalyzed policy shifts, introduced bold climate solutions, and championed human rights. For example, Greta Thunberg and the Fridays for Future movement have inspired climate commitments, while activists in Africa and Asia have spurred action on girls’ education and technology access.

Youth as Change Agents in Key Sectors

• Climate Action: Young climate activists have galvanized global movements and influenced corporate and government climate plans.
• Education Innovation: Students and youth organizations are pioneering accessible, digital, and inclusive education models, narrowing learning gaps worldwide.
• Health and Wellbeing: Young leaders are delivering sexual health education, mental health support, and advocating for universal healthcare.
• Entrepreneurship: Youth-led startups are innovating in agriculture, renewable energy, and fintech, creating jobs and sustainable solutions.

To read real stories about young leaders tackling climate change, visit our Climate Action pillar page.

Global Initiatives Empowering Young People

In 2018, the UN launched the Youth 2030: The United Nations Youth Strategy to amplify youth voices, expand youth-driven programs, and support national and local youth policies. The strategy focuses on participation, innovation, protection, and partnerships, with measurable progress across 115 countries.

Other international bodies, such as the World Bank and UNESCO, have increased funding for youth initiatives, ranging from STEM training to sustainable agriculture. The proliferation of global digital platforms lets young people connect, collaborate, and launch grassroots efforts at an unprecedented scale.

How to Support the Next Generation of Global Changemakers

• Governments: Build youth advisory councils, include young people in policy design, and invest in quality education and job training.
• Businesses: Mentor young entrepreneurs, create internships, and adopt inclusive hiring practices.
• NGOs and Civil Society: Partner with youth-led groups and listen to youth priorities in project design.
• Individuals: Amplify youth voices online, volunteer with youth organizations, and support youth-led campaigns in your community.

Learn more about volunteering, advocacy, and partnerships in our Get Involved guide.

Inspiring Examples of Youth-Driven Impact

From creating tech apps for disaster response to leading grassroots campaigns for girls’ rights, young innovators worldwide are tackling major global challenges. Here are a few inspiring examples worth exploring:

• Malala Yousafzai: Nobel Laureate and education activist, founder of the Malala Fund.
• Boyan Slat: Founder of The Ocean Cleanup, deploying technology to clean up oceans.
• Memory Banda: Girls’ rights activist from Malawi who campaigns against child marriage and supports girls’ education.
• Fatou Jeng: Climate and gender activist in The Gambia, founder of Clean Earth Gambia.

Engage, Collaborate, and Build a Better Future

The extraordinary power of youth is now recognized at the highest levels. When given opportunities, young people can spark movements, influence policy, and inspire the world toward progress. Whether through innovation, activism, or entrepreneurship, their collective efforts are essential for meeting global goals.

At Net Zero Digest, we are dedicated to amplifying youth voices and showcasing stories of hope and impact. For more insights on empowering the next generation and staying informed about progress on the SDGs, subscribe to our updates.

For more information, visit the UN News portal and explore official UN Youth initiatives.