Youth Leadership Journey in UN Project

The AI era has never been more exciting, with astonishing breakthroughs like Deepseek and captivating robotic performances at the Spring Festival Gala. Meanwhile, BBSG students Anny Z (Grade 6) and Spider S (Year 10) have been actively exploring technological innovation across industries through the United Nations Global Youth Leadership Excellence Sustainable Development Programme. They joined teenagers from across China to explore how technology can empower a sustainable world. The discussions covered global issues, including the digital economy, clean energy, and climate change.

Students were presented certificates by the UNGLEP president and mentors from global enterprises

An Inspiring Experience:

Where Technology Meets Humanity

The event features four components: lectures on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by UN officials, roundtable discussions with industry leaders and visits to leading enterprises in the SDG sector, leadership training sessions with senior mentors from global companies, along guidance from youth leaders.

Students explored Fortune 500 companies and multinational corporations, delving into the integration of innovative technology and sustainable development across various industries. 

They learned about breakthroughs in big data security, the precision engineering behind aircraft manufacturing, the synergy between AI and traditional practices in healthcare, and cutting-edge material network solutions that are transforming lives.

Visited Enterprises:

ByteDance

360SRC

IAT

Accenture

Lenovo

GE Healthcare

Airbus

Mech-Mind Robotics

Goldwind

BOE

Beyond the awe of technological innovations, the students gained valuable insights through engaging sessions with young leaders. 

They were inspired by a face-to-face exchange with the President of Panasonic China, who shared his growth experiences and success stories. Additionally, the founder and CEO of a leading robotics company explained how concepts from physics and chemistry are applied in AI manufacturing, sparking the students' interest in science.

Youth Power in the UN-led Project

These hands-on experiences beyond the classroom, combined with real-world knowledge and peer interactions, proved immensely rewarding for both students.

The most striking experience was visiting the factory where medical devices are manufactured. I witnessed the dedication of scientific researchers working on the machinery, which left a lasting impression on me. During the camp, I gained a deep understanding of the importance of innovation and teamwork in corporate development. A great leader must not only have a clear vision and strong decision-making skills but also be adept at listening and fostering relationships among team members. This visit has motivated me to strive for self-improvement, cultivate an innovative mindset, and develop my leadership skills to prepare for future challenges.

——Anny Z

What impressed me most was how leading enterprises utilised advanced technology to solve real-world problems. The president of Accenture shared a life success formula in one session: 'Life success equals goal clarity, resource matching, depth of interpersonal relationships, and adherence to principles.' This profound insight is something that can benefit people for a lifetime.

——Spider S

In this UN-led project, BBSG students posed thought-provoking questions on global issues, showcasing the ideas and responsibility of Generation Z. Their interactions with leading enterprises expanded their horizons and helped them grow into future leaders and innovative pioneers.

As Dr. Luo Xiang, Chairman of the UN Global Leadership and ESG Development Center (UNGLEP) Management Committee, called out: “We need young people around the world to take action now and fully commit to the mission of promoting sustainable development.”

About United Nations Global Youth Leadership Excellence Sustainable Development Programme

The Youth Leadership Development Programme, jointly organised by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNTAR) and the United Nations Global Leadership & ESG Centre, is an officially recognised and authoritative initiative.

The programme seeks to mobilise and integrate diverse resources to advance the objectives of the United Nations Youth Strategy 2030 by nurturing a new generation of leaders proficient in navigating the complex interplay of science, technology, and diplomacy. By leveraging the extensive knowledge and operational networks of the United Nations system, the programme is designed to deepen participants' understanding of pressing global issues and enhance their problem-solving skills. The programme aims to inspire and prepare participants to effectively address and lead efforts addressing global challenges related to the environment, public health, and climate change.