[New York, United States, April 25, 2023] – AIESEC, one of the world’s leading youth-led organizations, has emerged as a driving force of youth engagement and collaboration at the United Nations 2023 ECOSOC Youth Forum (EYF). With an impressive delegation of 26 representatives from over 10 countries, AIESEC demonstrated its dedication to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by showcasing the power of youth leadership and purposeful cross-sector partnerships.

Chester Shum (President of AIESEC International) and Alysha Alva (Global Head of Public Relations at AIESEC International) leading the AIESEC delegation at the 2023 UN ECOSOC Youth Forum

The core message conveyed by AIESEC throughout their participation at the EYF was the pivotal role of youth leadership in driving global progress. Through active networking and involvement in various events, AIESEC highlighted the significance of nurturing the potential of young leaders to effect positive change on a global scale.

AIESEC’s Global President, Chester Shum, delivered an impactful address before an audience of esteemed world leaders. Through his address, he emphasized the need for meaningful collaboration between youth and different sectors to achieve the SDGs, focusing on SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals. Chester’s impassioned speech resonated with attendees, highlighting the critical importance of inclusive intergenerational cooperation for sustainable global development.

Chester Shum (President of AIESEC International) delivering an address at the SDG Round Table Discussion at the 2023 UN ECOSOC Youth Forum.

AIESEC’s commitment to elevating youth perspectives and promoting collaboration was further exemplified by an official EYF Side Event organized by Alysha Alva, Global Head of Public Relations at AIESEC. The event, titled “Leveraging Youth Thought Leadership on Global Stages,” facilitated meaningful conversations on the role of youth in achieving the SDGs. Distinguished panellists from AIESEC, the World Organization of the Scout Movement, and the International Labour Organization shared insights on how different sectors can collaborate with youth-focused organizations to drive progress. The side event drew a captivated audience of over 50 attendees representing various nations and backgrounds. The diverse gathering reflected AIESEC’s reach and impact across the globe. The event’s success was emblematic of AIESEC’s dedication to fostering dialogue, collaboration, and action among young change-makers.

Pictures from AIESEC’s Side Event at the ECOSOC Youth Forum. Picture to the left from left to right: Chester Shum (President of AIESEC International),  María Florencia Cagliero (International Commissioner of Scouts de Argentina, World Organization of the Scout Movement), Alysha Alva (Global Head of Public Relations, AIESEC International),  Matthieu Cognac, (Senior Multilateral Cooperation Specialist, International Labour Organization)

As the forum concluded, AIESEC left a mark on the United Nations ECOSOC Youth Forum as an incredible example of the potential of youth-driven initiatives and global collaboration. With its dynamic delegation, influential addresses, meetings with various important stakeholders, and thought-provoking side events, AIESEC reaffirmed its commitment to shaping a sustainable future through empowering youth leaders and fostering purposeful partnerships globally.

About AIESEC:

AIESEC is one of the world’s largest youth-run organizations dedicated to developing leadership potential in young people through international exchange and volunteering opportunities. With a presence in over 100 countries and territories, AIESEC provides a platform for young leaders to engage in cross-cultural experiences and contribute to positive societal change.

About the United Nations’ ECOSOC Youth Forum:

The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) Youth Forum is a dynamic platform that brings together youth leaders, government officials, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders to engage in discussions on pressing global issues. The forum serves as an opportunity for young voices to be heard, ideas to be shared, and solutions to be developed, contributing to the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By facilitating meaningful dialogues and collaborations, the ECOSOC Youth Forum empowers young people to actively participate in shaping the future and advancing sustainable development on a global scale.For more information or media inquiries, please contact:Alysha Alva, Global Head of Public Relations for 2023, AIESEC International alyshaa@ai.aiesec.org

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