Around the world, young people are taking the lead in shaping sustainable development through climate resilience, digital innovation, stronger food systems, and inclusive governance. These initiatives are proving that youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow but essential change-makers today, driving efforts toward a more just, peaceful, and resilient future.
In Bolivia’s Amazon region, 583 Indigenous youth are combining ancestral ecological knowledge with modern agricultural techniques to strengthen local food systems. Supported by international organizations, this approach preserves cultural heritage while enhancing sustainability, equipping young people with technical and leadership skills that allow them to influence policies. Their work shows that food system transformation can be both innovative and deeply rooted in tradition, offering a model for climate adaptation and food security in other biodiverse regions.
In rural Guatemala, 17,800 young people are spearheading a digital transformation that improves access to essential public services. Through training in digital skills and upgrades to local infrastructure, youth are enabling communities to better access social protection programs, education, and climate adaptation resources. This initiative, supported by multiple UN agencies, demonstrates how digital literacy among youth can lead to systemic change and more accessible, efficient governance.
In Ghana, 25,000 young entrepreneurs are turning business ideas into thriving digital enterprises with the help of a program designed for youth-led micro, small, and medium businesses. Backed by the UNDP and UNCTAD, the initiative provides access to financial services, e-commerce platforms, and professional networks, allowing young business owners to fully participate in the country’s digital economy. The program positions youth as central drivers of economic growth by merging entrepreneurship with digital innovation.
In Speightstown, Barbados, 1,000 young people are actively engaged in building climate-resilient communities. Working alongside UN Women and UNICEF, they contribute to urban planning, disaster preparedness, and community safety strategies. By involving youth in decision-making and integrating climate action with inclusive design, this initiative ensures that small island communities are better prepared for environmental challenges while fostering the next generation of climate leaders.
