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HONG KONG, 15 October – Hong Kong Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF HK) hosted its inaugural Youth for Youth Summit at the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park on 20 September. The Summit, held under the theme "From Learning to Leading Our 4500 Days," highlights the critical window from birth to age 12, a period that lays the foundation for a child’s transition from learner to leader. This pioneering event united, for the first time, all UNICEF HK's ‘Local Education and Youth Programmes’. It provided nearly 300 students, parents, and school representatives with a dynamic platform to exchange ideas and share experiences.

Young participants from across UNICEF HK’s signature youth programmes including UNICEF Young Envoys Programme, UNICEF Club, SDG Actioner Challenge for Ethnic Minority Youth Programme, EdVocate School Speakers Programme, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) eLearn Award Scheme, showcased the impactful projects they have launched in schools and communities, embodying the summit's theme of transitioning from learners to leaders.

The Summit commenced with a special feature video by Aristo Sham, UNICEF TEAM member and Hong Kong’s first-ever gold medallist at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition. In the video, Aristo explained the importance of creative expression for children’s development and its contribution to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being. He also performed a piano piece co-created with UNICEF Young Envoys. The composition was inspired by "Genesis of Green," a video game developed by the Young Envoys to encourage creativity and a sustainable future.

Distinguished Guests including Mr Ivan Chu, Chairman of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Dr Ko Wing Man, Council Member of UNICEF HK; Dr Julia Chu, member of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Mr Fong Chung Lun, member of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Ms Fiona Zhuang, member of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Ms May Chiu, Executive Director of UNICEF HK; as well as the sponsor of UNICEF Young Envoys and SDG Actioner Challenge Programmes, Mr Wei Aiguo, Managing Director of AEON Credit Service (Asia) Co., Ltd officiated the ceremony to show their support.

The Summit provided a valuable platform for students to demonstrate how they are translating learning into practical action to drive change. These experiences are shaping them into passionate advocates who actively advance the SDGs and child rights within their communities. One of the highlights of the summit was a panel discussion moderated by Iris, a participant from the EdVocate School Speakers Programme. She facilitated a dynamic exchange with distinguished guests Mr. Ivan Chu, Chairman of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK, and Mr. Wei Aiguo, Managing Director of AEON Credit Service (Asia) Co., Ltd. The guests shared meaningful insights on how cross-sector collaboration can foster society-wide impact through child-centred approach.

Mr. Ivan Chu, Chairman of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK, commended the young participants for their innovative approaches, stating:  "Child participation is the key element to both Child Friendly Cities Initiative (CFCI) and UNICEF HK's ‘Local Education and Youth Programme’. We don't impose solutions—we equip young people to speak up, lead, and drive real change. This is how we truly advance child rights and build an inclusive society where every voice matters."

One of the young participants, Joanna, shared her excitement about attending the Summit for the first time, “It was delightful to meet participants from all the different UNICEF HK programmes, the Young Envoys, EdVocate School Speakers, UNICEF Club and everyone else. Hearing their stories and learning about their efforts to raise awareness of children’s needs was truly inspiring. Seeing all projects presented at the Summit made me realize just how much secondary school students can achieve.”

Another attendee, Victoria, said, “I’m thrilled to be part of this Summit. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share what we’ve accomplished over the past several months and to continue advocating together for child rights.”

Certificates and awards were presented at the Summit to recognize the young participants' outstanding efforts. This celebration not only honours their individual achievements but also underscores UNICEF HK's commitment to nurturing a generation of capable and compassionate leaders.

UNICEF HK will continue to champion child participation through diverse programmes, amplifying children's voices and transforming their ideas into meaningful action. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of global advocates. Together, we can build a child-friendly Hong Kong where every child's well-being is protected and their voice is heard and respected.

UNICEF HK successfully hosted its inaugural Youth for Youth Summit under the theme "Learning to Leading: Our 4500 Days." The pioneering event united, for the first time, all participants of UNICEF HK's ‘Local Education and Youth Initiatives,’ bringing together nearly 300 students, parents, and school representatives.

Distinguished guests including Mr Ivan Chu (sixth from left), Chairman of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Dr Ko Wing Man (sixth from right), Council Member of UNICEF HK; Dr Julia Chu (third from right), member of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Mr Fong Chung Lun (second from left), member of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Ms Fiona Zhuang (first from left), member of Advocacy Committee of UNICEF HK; Ms May Chiu (first from right), Executive Director of UNICEF HK and programme sponsor Mr Wei Aiguo (fourth from left), Managing Director of AEON Credit Service (Asia) Co., Ltd officiated the ceremony.

Special feature video by Aristo Sham, UNICEF TEAM member and Hong Kong’s first-ever gold medallist at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition.

Mr. Ivan Chu (middle), Chairman of Advocacy Committee, UNICEF HK and Mr. Wei Aiguo (right), Managing Director of AEON Credit Service (Asia) Co., Ltd shared meaningful insights on how cross-sector collaboration can foster society-wide impact through child-centred approaches during panel discussion.

Students from across UNICEF HK’s youth programmes showcased how they are applying their learnings to drive meaningful change, advancing child rights and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).