Samsung Electronics, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has announced the induction of five new Young Leaders into their joint initiative, Generation17. The program, launched in 2020, focuses on empowering young changemakers working to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals. These leaders come from various regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and North America, and address key challenges spanning all 17 Global Goals.
"Generation17 reflects Samsung’s continued commitment to a more equitable future for all," the company stated, indicating that the newest cohort is focused on marine conservation, environmental sustainability, gender equality, and quality education. Stephanie Choi, EVP & Head of Marketing, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics, stated, “As we accelerate efforts to achieve the Global Goals, we are proud to welcome the next cohort of Young Leaders to Generation17. Their passion, creativity, and commitment to addressing global challenges embody the spirit of innovation that fuels meaningful change.”
The selected Young Leaders, such as Brigitta Gunawan from Indonesia, José Francisco Ochoa from Ecuador, Renata Koch Alvarenga from Brazil, Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh from Jordan, and Soumya Dabriwal from India, have been recognized for their innovative approaches to global issues. They aim to use technology to promote and advance their causes, leveraging the opportunities provided by the Generation17 initiative.
Achim Steiner, Administrator of UNDP, emphasized the urgency of the initiative: “Young people are the future of global development, and with fewer than five years left to achieve the Global Goals, the time to act is now.”
Since its inception, Generation17 has supported these leaders with Samsung Galaxy technology, alongside networking and mentorship opportunities, to facilitate impactful community-oriented work. This initiative includes a direct appeal for public engagement through the Samsung Global Goals App, which has amassed significant installations and contributions to UNDP's initiatives.
Samsung and UNDP's partnership, formalized in 2019 with the launch of the Samsung Global Goals App, aims to harness the power of technology to tackle worldwide socio-environmental challenges. The app has educated millions about the Global Goals and enabled users to contribute to related initiatives.
In upcoming months, the new Young Leaders will participate in major global events, engaging with policymakers and innovators to ensure youth voices play a significant role in creating a sustainable future.