The Global Youth Summit (GYS), an annual event organized by SM Cares and the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) to inspire youth leaders to become catalysts for change, recently concluded its South Luzon leg. The event took place from June 8 to June 22, 2024, across various SM Malls in Southern Luzon.
GYS provides young people with opportunities to use their voices, share their ideas, and help create long-term and sustainable solutions to today’s most pressing problems and challenges. This annual gathering empowers youth to actively participate in shaping a better future.
SM Cares and GPF kicked off the South Luzon leg of this year’s GYS in Legazpi City, Albay last June 8, 2024, which focused on “SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Economies.” The event tackled the role of sustainability in ensuring the long-term viability of cities and economies.
The second GYS event in South Luzon was held in Sorsogon City, Sorsogon last June 9, 2024. Focusing on “SDG 14: Life Below Water,” the event underscored the importance of protecting our waters and marine life, a vital part of our planet’s ecosystem.
Last June 15, 2024, GYS visited Sta. Rosa, Laguna for its third South Luzon leg event. The focus was “SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy,” highlighting the importance of exploring renewable and sustainable energy sources.
The fourth GYS event in South Luzon, held in Tanza, Cavite last June 16, 2024, focused on “SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.” The event emphasized creating equal opportunities for quality employment and supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)
| SM Cares and GPF concluded the GYS South Luzon Leg in Sto. Tomas City, Batangas last June 22, 2024. The event centered on “SDG 4: Quality Education,” highlighting its role as the foundation of a thriving society with equal access to lifelong learning opportunities. |
With the successful conclusion of the South Luzon leg, SM Cares and GPF are now preparing for the Mindanao leg of the Global Youth Summit (GYS). Mindanaoan youth leaders who are eager to use their voices to tackle local issues are invited to join the upcoming GYS events at these venues: SM CDO Downtown on July 6, 2024; SM City General Santos on July 9, 2024; and SM Lanang Premier on July 11, 2024.
This year’s 17-leg event aims to represent all 17 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Each location highlighted a specific SDG, featuring insightful talks and engaging activities to empower the youth.
To find out how you can be part of the movement towards a better world for youth, visit https://bit.ly/GYSRegistration.
The Global Youth Summit (GYS) is just one of SM Cares’ many initiatives focused on children and youth, aligning with all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Other notable programs include partnerships with UNICEF and the Book Nook—a free library and community hub where families can enjoy books, workshops, and activities together.
In addition to its children and youth programs, SM Cares also supports initiatives in environmental sustainability, women and breastfeeding mothers, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.
For more information, visit https://www.smsupermalls.com/smcares/.
