On October 14, 2024, ASEZ hosted a Youth Empowerment Forum in Washington D.C., U.S. The event brought together over sixty students from colleges and universities in the Washington, D.C., including George Mason University (GMU), Howard University, and Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). This forum aimed to provide a platform for educators and influential leaders to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to contribute to sustainable development.
The event began with introduction to ASEZ activities to achieve the 17th goal of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, that is, partnerships for the goals. The forum shifted to a panel discussion on “Youth Sustainability,” “Innovative Solutions for Global Challenges,” and “Ways to Build a Sustainable Future.”
The panelists provided advice on how young people can maximize their potential and contribute to global partnerships. They also discussed strategies to transform challenges into opportunities for achieving successes as future leaders. ASEZ members emphasized the importance of university students actively participating in addressing global issues through innovative and impactful initiatives.
Rachel Bowen Pitman, Executive Director of the United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA), stated, “This event served as a great reminder that young people have the power to advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). There are truly countless ways to make the world a better place.”
Following the forum, Darnelly De Jesus, a Senior Executive at the FBI, shared her thoughts, saying, “This forum was significant as it highlighted the various opportunities for young people to serve in their communities. ASEZ members are doing outstanding work, and I am grateful for their efforts.”
Through this forum, ASEZ members deepened their understanding of the need for current leaders to build on the foundations laid by previous generations and foster global solidarity to create sustainable communities. It is hoped that future forums and seminars will continue to bring together like-minded students and professionals, igniting youthful passion and collaborating to create a sustainable environment on a global scale.
