Sustainability, gender equality, and mental health were just some of the topics that were discussed during the recently concluded 10th Global Youth Summit (GYS), which took place last August 12 at the SMX Convention Center Davao in SM Lanang Premier and was livestreamed on Zoom.
Held annually by SM Cares and Global Peace Foundation Philippines, the GYS aims to bring together thousands of students and youth leaders from all over the country and provide them with opportunities to work with and learn from each other in addressing the problems concerning them.
“The GYS is an instrument to inspire and to be inspired. GYS is a platform for young people to learn and be able to share their ideas, utilize diverse skill sets, and even create new networks both locally and globally,” said Program Director of SM Cares for Children and Youth Royston Cabuñag in his speech during the event.
“The GYS in the last decade has tapped the youth to be developed and to be transformed so as to address issues and connect to others even in times of pandemic. The GYS has also supported program objectives to develop moral and innovative leadership so as to adapt themselves in this time of industrial revolution,” said Global Peace Foundation Philippines Trustee Dr. Florida Labuguen in her keynote speech.
Sponsored by the Consuelo Foundation, Nestlé Philippines, Levi’s, Fuji Suiso, and the Philippine Society of NSTP Educators and Implementers, Inc., with PLDT as the official telco partner, this year’s GYS was led by distinguished speakers who each shared their expertise to help foster meaningful discussions on some of today’s biggest issues affecting the youth.
2020 National Outstanding Girl Scout of South Cotabato Council, Cadet Girl Scout Hazel Jane Anating underscored the importance of gender equality in sustainable development. Nestlé Philippines Senior Vice President Jose T. Uy III talked about the various ways consumers can contribute to addressing plastic pollution.
Consuelo Foundation Partnership and Development Manager Minnie Salao delivered a congratulatory message to the winners of this year’s GYS Outstanding Alumni, while Mind You Mental Health Systems Senior Psychologist Dr. Rea Celine Villa focused on how everyone can take care of their mental health.
PLDT and Smart Assistant Vice President and Head of Stakeholder Management Stephanie Orlino shared the various initiatives of the telecom company in enabling Filipinos through technology. Meta Philippines Strategic Partnership Lead Anna Rodriguez highlighted the critical role of partnerships in achieving common goals.
International Rescue Expert Dr. Ted Esguerra gave a talk on sustainable cities and communities. Finally, USAID Energy Secure Philippines Communications Manager Patricia Salvanera discussed the importance of energy efficiency and conservation.
Mind You Mental Health Advocates Gab Valenciano, Yassi Pressman, and Nadine Lustre also delivered special video messages to the attendees. The event was then capped off with the GYS Youth Festival featuring a live performance by Bandang Lapis.
This year’s GYS was attended by more than 2,000 live audience and have reached more than 67,000 people online. This initiative supports all 17 of the United Nations’ Sustainability Development Goals.
SM Cares is the corporate social responsibility arm of SM Prime Holdings, focused on initiatives that benefit communities and the environment. Aside from its programs on Children and Youth, SM Cares also has programs on the environment, women and breastfeeding mothers, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and the Bike-Friendly Initiative.