20 August 2024, Nairobi. – On August 12th, 2024, Nairobi was abuzz with youthful energy and innovation as it played host to the International Youth Day (IYD) celebrations. The theme for this year, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” couldn’t have been more relevant. Jointly organized by UNEP, UN-Habitat, UNFPA Kenya, ILO Kenya and supported by UN DESA, it shone a spotlight on the crucial role young people play in the digital age, driving forward the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through technology and innovation.
Why This Event Matters
International Youth Day is not just a day on the calendar; it’s a global platform dedicated to amplifying youth voices, celebrating their achievements, and addressing the challenges they face. This year’s event in Nairobi was particularly special as it emphasized how digitalization can be a powerful tool for sustainable development, and how youth are at the forefront of this transformative process.
Highlights from the Event
- Opening Session: Voices of Inspiration
The day kicked off with inspiring words from leaders who underscored the importance of youth in shaping our future. The keynote speakers each brought their unique perspectives, starting with Madam Anaclaudia Rossbach, UN-Habitat Executive Director, who passionately addressed the global housing crisis, stressing the critical role of collaboration and the vital contributions of youth in overcoming these challenges.
Dr. Stephen Jackson, UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya, reminded us that today’s youth, especially Gen Z, are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are leading change today. He highlighted the power of digital tools in addressing global challenges, emphasizing the need to bridge the digital divide to ensure no one is left behind.
Ms. Susan Gardner, Director of the Ecosystems Division, UNEP, praised the youth for leading technological innovation and driving sustainable development, urging them to leverage digital tools for environmental action.
Finally, Ms. Edlam Abera Yemeru, Chief of the Knowledge and Innovation Branch at UN-Habitat, inspired the audience by recognizing the existing leadership within youth communities and emphasizing the importance of integrating their perspectives into global decision-making. Together, these speeches underscored a collective vision for youth-led progress and the need for continued engagement to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges.
- Thematic Sessions: Youth Leading in Digitalization
The event was packed with engaging thematic sessions that covered everything from digital skills for the future of work to innovative environmental solutions:
- Empowering Youth for the Future of Work: This session explored the skills young people need to thrive in the digital era. Industry leaders discussed the rapid growth in sectors like AI, cybersecurity, and e-commerce, and how youth can prepare themselves for these opportunities.
- Youth Digital Pathways for the Environment: Young innovators showcased cutting-edge solutions to environmental challenges, such as AI-driven tools to combat deforestation and drones designed to clean up plastic pollution. These sessions highlighted how digital tools can turn the tide on environmental degradation, with youth at the helm.
- Road to a Sustainable Urban Future: This session, led by UN-Habitat, focused on how digitalization can transform urban spaces. It emphasized the critical role of youth in shaping sustainable cities, especially through innovative projects like turning a local dumpsite into a vibrant community park.
- Interactive Activities: Engaging and Learning
Beyond the formal discussions, participants engaged in interactive activities designed to foster collaboration and spark new ideas. These activities not only energized the attendees but also provided practical insights into how digital tools can be leveraged for social impact.
The Power of Youth
One of the key takeaways from the day was the realization that youth are not just passive recipients of technology; they are creators, innovators, and leaders. The event showcased numerous examples of how young people are using digital tools to make a real difference in their communities, from driving environmental action to redefining urban spaces.
Looking Forward: Beyond International Youth Day
As the day drew to a close, it was clear that the discussions and ideas generated would not end with the event. The International Youth Day in Nairobi served as a launchpad for ongoing initiatives and collaborations aimed at ensuring youth voices remain central to global dialogues on sustainable development.
In a world where digital tools are increasingly becoming a part of everyday life, events like these remind us that youth are not just adapting to this new world—they are shaping it. The future is digital, and it is in the hands of the youth.
![[Alice Mueni, Community Programs Manager, Nairobi Game Development Centre/Usiku Games, speaking at the “Youth Digital Pathways for Environment” session ], Nairobi, Kenya, 12 August 2024. © UNEP](https://www.unhabitatyouth.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PHOTO-2024-08-12-16-38-26-1024x683.jpg)
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This International Youth Day in Nairobi was a powerful reminder of the potential of young people to lead us into a more sustainable, equitable, and digital future. If you’re inspired by what you’ve read, now is the time to get involved, make your voice heard, and be part of the change.
