“Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond: Celebrating Africa’s Leadership in Surrey & Sussex”
This International Youth Day, we stand with the United Nations in recognising young people as the driving force behind the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), transforming global ambitions into community-led realities. With this year’s theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” we highlight how young leaders across Surrey & Sussex, particularly those of African heritage, are turning policy into tangible change while inspiring others worldwide.
The Power of Youth in Achieving the SDGs:
Global Visions, Local Solutions: While the SDGs provide a universal framework, it is young changemakers, like the African diaspora organising food banks in Crawley or mentoring schemes in Guildford, who bring them to life. Their work proves that sustainable development begins on our doorsteps.
Climate Action Starts Here: Though African youth are among the most affected by climate change, they are also its most innovative solvers. Take, for example, Sussex students creating urban green spaces or Surrey-based collectives repurposing textiles into sustainable fashion.
Bridging Communities Through Innovation: From a Nigerian-British teen leading STEM workshops to a Somali-led youth centre promoting inclusive education, local efforts are paving the way for global progress.
Spotlight on Africa’s Rising Leaders:
The vibrant spirit of Africa’s youth is evident in Surrey & Sussex, where young leaders are:
- Championing SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption) through initiatives like Ghanaian-Surrey entrepreneurs upcycling e-waste.
- Advancing SDG 5 (Gender Equality) through dialogues led by Zimbabwean-born activists in Brighton.
How You Can Get Involved:
Support: Seek out and back youth-led SDG projects in your area.
Collaborate: Businesses and local councils, invest in these changemakers!
Share Their Stories: Use #Youth4SDGs to celebrate young people turning policy into action.
This #InternationalYouthDay, let us remember: The SDGs will not be realised in conference rooms, they will be achieved in our communities, by young people. Africa’s emerging leaders remind us daily that a fairer, greener world is not just a dream, it is already taking shape.
#SDGsInAction #AfricaLeads #Youth2030 #SurreySussexChangeMakers
P.S. Tag a youth-led project making a difference! 🌍✨ Quick poll: Which SDG matters most to you? (Comment with the number!)