As I reflect on all of the convenings and discussions during the recent High-Level week of the United Nations General Assembly #UNGA, I have four key takeaways:
- The Pact for the Future: This is a pivotal opportunity to unite stakeholders around a shared vision for accelerating the SDGs, advancing the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations.
- Private Sector’s role: Businesses are indispensable in driving progress across all elements of the Pact for the Future, from advancing the responsible use of digital technology to bridge SDG divides; to proactively and inclusively working with young leaders; to bold actions needed on climate, gender, sustainable finance, oceans and water and beyond. The Statement of Multilateral Cooperation, endorsed by International Chamber of Commerce, WBCSD – World Business Council for Sustainable Development, United Nations Global Compact and International Organisation of Employers (IOE), demonstrated that the private sector is a catalyst for delivering on the 2030 Agenda: https://ow.ly/g6Ga50TBbKK
- Multi-stakeholder partnerships: With 2030 fast approaching, we must all work together across generations, sectors and regions, to spur lasting, positive change. This change hinges on four vital ingredients: action, speed, scope and scale.
- Delivering outcomes: Success requires moving from commitments to tangible outcomes that deliver real impact. We must ensure that every action taken translates into measurable results for people and planet.
Throughout last week, I listened and learned; and collectively, we connected and catalyzed action. I saw bold leadership, and also heard calls for a more robust enabling environment to allow businesses to do more. Leaders from all sectors united to confront some of the world’s most pressing challenges. This revitalized the spirit of multilateralism that no single entity can solve these issues alone— the SDGs demand collaboration and shared commitment.
The Leaders Summit further reinforced these themes, where global leaders convened to exchange solutions and explore the role of digitization, community, youth and leadership in driving meaningful change. Futurist Amy Webb, Actor and Goodwill Ambassador Don Cheadle, Youth Ambassador Luisa Franco Machado and Akaya Windwood of Third Act, all shed light on the potential of digitization, community, youth and leadership.
The momentum continued with the #UnstoppableAfrica event, focusing on technology, trade, creativity, energy, sports and how Africa’s youth can harness these sectors to redefine their future. The "Africa Youth Fix" conversation explored skill growth, as young changemakers shared their visions for advancing the SDGs by capitalizing on digitization and tools like AI.
As we move forward through the year, I am energized by the commitments to action and outcome. We will continue to join the dots, build partnerships and galvanize business through local actions, regional platforms and global advocacy.
