Pasay City, Philippines – August 11, 2023 – SM Cares, the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Supermalls, in collaboration with the Global Peace Foundation (GPF), set the stage for the eagerly anticipated Global Youth Summit 2023. The launch event, held at the iconic SM Mall of Asia Music Hall. Marks the commencement of a four-leg series aimed at empowering and inspiring thousands of Filipino youth to tackle pressing societal concerns linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
The Global Youth Summit serves as a remarkable annual congregation of students and youth leaders from across the Philippines. Providing them with a unique platform to delve into critical global issues and foster collaborative solutions.
Distinguished guest speakers graced the event, each bringing their unique perspectives to the forefront. Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV and AIDS (UNAIDS) Goodwill Ambassador for Asia and the Pacific. Presently Illuminated the importance of raising awareness and dismantling stigma to enhance HIV prevention and treatment in the Philippines.
Rafael Dionisio, Founder of Make A Difference (MAD) Travel and a sustainability educator. He shared insights into environmental issues such as deforestation and plastic waste pollution. He called on the youth to take proactive measures to mitigate these problems and prevent them from exacerbating.
Carlos Sampan, Head of Milo Sports, emphasized the positive impact of community support in driving individual success. After that a video messages from Southeast Asian Games Gold medalists Jamie Lim and Japoy Lizardo, along with Olympic pole vaulter EJ Obiena, echoed messaged resilience and determination.
George Royeca, CEO of Angkas, discussed the role of digital platforms and social media in developing innovative solutions. Generally emphasizing the power of micro-level solutions to address broader societal challenges.
Ingill Ra, GPF Asia Pacific Regional President, delivered an impassioned speech on unity in the face of adversity. Identically highlighting the potential for collective action to drive positive change. Meanwhile, Nick Chun, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Philippines Youth Ambassador, underscored the crucial role of youth. In light of addressing social issues, particularly in the context of responsible tourism.
“The Global Youth Summit was created to provide young people with a platform to learn about the social issues that affect both them and the world right now and ideate solutions through collaboration.“ said Royston Cabuñag, SM Cares Program Director for Children and Youth. In addition “We want to develop leaders who are morally competent, innovative, and proactive in coming up with solutions that can help make the world a better place.”
“Youth empowerment is not merely a concept or an idea. It is a call to action, a movement that demands our active participation.“ added Leonard Faustino, Global Peace Foundation Philippines Deputy Executive Director. “The Global Youth Summit cultivates an environment where young minds can flourish, where dreams can be nurtured and where obstacles can be transformed into opportunities.”
The summit culminated with a solemn Youth Pledge, with participants committing to continued collaboration, create more united and prosperous society. The evening concluded with spectacular performances from Filipino bands Hey June! and Gracenote.
The Global Youth Summit underscores SM’s commitment to supporting all 17 of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Last year’s summit drew over 2,000 participants, and this year’s goal is to double that number to 4,000 attendees.
On the other hand the journey continues with future legs of the summit, scheduled for consecutive Saturdays: SM CDO Downtown Premier on August 19, SM City Iloilo Southpoint on August 26, and the grand finale at SM City Baguio on September 2.
In addition to Programs for Children & Youth, SM Cares also champions advocacies for the Environment, Persons with Disabilities, Women & Breastfeeding Mothers, Senior Citizens, and the SM Bike-friendly initiative. For more information about these programs, please visit www.smsupermalls.com/smcares.
