UP-CIFAL PH Celebrates UN Day with Youth-Centric Event on Sustainable Development Pathways

28 October 2024 – In celebration of United Nations Day, UP-CIFAL Philippines, in partnership with key organizations, successfully hosted the event Leaders of Tomorrow: Developing Pathways for a Sustainable Future at the Malcolm Theater, University of the Philippines Diliman. The event brought together youth leaders, national and local government representatives, private sector partners, and civil society organizations, focusing on youth-driven contributions to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The day-long event featured the launch of the Susie for Sustainability book series, a youth-focused resource aimed at raising awareness of young children and inspiring action toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The book series was unveiled by representatives from UP-CIFAL Philippines and the University of the Philippines Los Baños College of Development Communication. Storytelling sessions illustrated how the SDGs impact local communities, aligning with SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

In the afternoon, the forum Amplifying Voices: Fostering Youth Involvement for Sustainable Development provided a platform for experts and youth advocates to discuss the role of young people in advancing sustainable development. Notable speakers included Mr. Alfred Opiz-Dicto, Adolescent Development and Gender Specialist of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Philippines, who highlighted the importance of recognizing the right lens for youth participation, Ms. Natasha Tanjutco, co-founder of TAYO Sustainable Strategies & Creative Consultancy, who valued the vital presence of nature, and Mr. Ranze Calderon, Executive Director of 2030 Youth Force in the Philippines Inc., who shared strategies on youth mobilization for SDG achievement.

UP President Angelo Jimenez and UN Resident Coordinator Gustavo González delivered opening remarks, underscoring the critical role of the youth as catalysts for sustainable change. The event also featured interactive discussions on youth empowerment, the importance of grassroots advocacy, and partnership-building to tackle pressing global challenges.

The Leaders of Tomorrow event concluded with a synthesis led by Shari Niña G. Oliquino, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs (Student Affairs), who emphasized the momentum created by the event and the importance of sustained collaboration to achieve the SDGs by 2030.

UP-CIFAL Philippines extends gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners for their commitment to shaping a sustainable future led by empowered young leaders.

You may view the event here: https://youtu.be/YnsKY16RrKk