Global Youth Networks Quarterly Update - Q1 2026

Global Youth Networks Quarterly Update - Q1 2026

In Q1 2026, SDSN Youth networks advanced sustainability through: Youth voices in action – SDSN Youth networks co-organized a joint side event at the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development, bringing regional perspectives into global dialogue. Capacity building on key challenges – Nigeria led health-focused webinars with WHO, and the Philippines delivered leadership programs and sustainability education initiatives. Collaboration for regional impact – Bolivia and the Black Sea network strengthened partnerships on clean energy and hosted dialogues on gender equality and youth empowerment.

Nigeria Network

Opening Pathways to Global Health Careers

In February 2026, SDSNYouth Nigeria partnered with World Health Organisation to host a two-day virtual career series on global health. Young professionals gained insights into career pathways and emerging public health challenges. The initiative strengthened knowledge sharing and youth capacity building (SDGs 3 and 4).

Addressing Maternal Health on International Women's Day

In March 2026, SDSNYouth Nigeria organized a webinar highlighting maternal health challenges to mark International Women’s Day. Experts and participants discussed solutions to reduce health inequalities affecting women. The event raised awareness of gender and health issues (SDGs 3 and 5).

Korea Network

Preparing Youth Voices for a Regional SDG Forum

In March 2026, SDSN Youth Korea organized preparatory discussions ahead of the Northeast Asia YouthForum on the SDGs. These sessions gathered youth perspectives and encouraged cross-border dialogue. The initiative strengthened regional cooperation and sustainability awareness (SDGs 4 and 17).

Bolivia Network

Building Bridges for Clean Energy Collaboration

In February 2026, SDSN Youth Bolivia met with the Latin American Energy Organization (OLADE) to explore cooperation on youth engagement in the energy transition. The exchange opened opportunities for future collaboration on clean energy initiatives. The meeting reinforced partnerships for sustainable energy (SDGs 7 and 17).

Intergenerational Dialogue for Women's Empowerment

In March 2026, SDSN Youth Bolivia hosted an intergenerational dialogue to celebrate International Women’s Day. Young participants and women leaders exchanged perspectives on leadership and inclusion. The discussion promoted gender equality and youth empowerment (SDG 5).

Black Sea Network

Powering Regional Dialogue on Renewable Energy

In March 2026, SDSN Youth Black Sea organized a regional workshop on renewable energy opportunities. Participants discussed cooperation pathways and clean energy solutions for the region. The workshop strengthened knowledge exchange on the energy transition (SDG 7).

Asia Networks

Uniting Youth Voices Across Asia-Pacific

In February 2026, SDSN Youth networks from across the Asia-Pacific region came together to host a joint side event at the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development. The session brought together young leaders from multiple countries to exchange perspectives on climate action, urban resilience, and inclusive development, highlighting the value of cross- network collaboration. The event demonstrated how regional cooperation can strengthen youth contributions to policy dialogue and accelerate progress on the SDGs (SDGs 11, 13, and 17).

Philippines Networks

A Dialogue with Jeffrey Sachs on the Future of the SDGs

In January 2026, SDSNYouth Philippines joined a dialogue with Professor Jeffrey Sachs at De La Salle University. Students and youth leaders discussed global SDG progress and emerging priorities. The exchange strengthened academic engagement and global dialogue (SDG 17).

Building Leadership for Sustainable Campuses

In January 2026, SDSN Youth Philippines contributed to the CIIT LEADS leadership program, equipping student leaders with sustainability knowledge. The session connected leadership development with SDG implementation. The initiative supported education for sustainable development (SDG 4).

Community Action Through Project SAMA-SAMA

In February 2026, SDSN Youth Philippines supported Project SAMA-SAMA, a youth-led community initiative focused on education and empowerment. Through outreach activities, the project strengthened grassroots SDG awareness. The initiative highlighted the importance of local partnerships (SDGs 4 and 17).

Taking the SDGs on the Road

In March 2026, SDSN Youth Philippines helped organize the SDG Caravan, an interactive outreach initiative promoting sustainability awareness among students. The program connected academic offices and student communities. It strengthened engagement with the SDGs through experiential learning (SDG 4).

Youth Innovation at the UP SDG Summit

In March 2026, SDSN Youth Philippines participated in the UP Youth Summit on the SDGs. The gathering provided a platform for young leaders to exchange ideas on innovation and sustainable development. The event reinforced youth networks and collaboration (SDGs 4 and 17).

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