The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Samsung Electronics are proud to announce the newest cohort of Young Leaders joining Generation17, a joint initiative that supports exceptional young changemakers from around the world who are working to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals.
Chosen from a competitive pool of global applicants, these five new Young Leaders bring powerful, grassroots solutions to some of the world's most urgent challenges, including climate and ocean conservation, gender equality, and inclusive education. Their work highlights the significant contribution of youth to continue in forming a sustainable, just, and equitable future.
"I congratulate this new cohort of young leaders into Generation17. They exemplify an extraordinary drive and leadership that is transforming their communities, and now their voices will help set the global development agenda," said Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator. "Our long-standing partnership with Samsung empowers youth to advance solutions that address climate and human rights challenges and to inspire a new generation to work for a more sustainable and just future."
Meet the Newest Young Leaders
This year's cohort reflects a wide range of regional and thematic expertise, united by a common goal to create lasting change:
- Brigitta Gunawan (Indonesia) - Founder of 30x30 Indonesia and Diverseas, Brigitta is an ocean-climate advocate dedicated to advancing marine conservation and environmental education, especially among youth and coastal communities.
- José Francisco Ochoa (Ecuador) - A marine biologist and co-founder of Academia del Océano, José uses digital education to promote ocean sustainability across Spanish-speaking countries.
- Renata Koch Alvarenga (Brazil) - Through her organization EmpoderaClima, Renata promotes climate justice with a feminist lens, focusing on the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and girls in the Global South.
- Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh (Jordan) - Founder of IBTKRGO, Rahaf combines environmental innovation and education by creating eco-friendly, tech-based learning kits from recyclable materials, including e-waste.
- Soumya Dabriwal (India) - Soumya is the co-founder of Project Baala, which addresses menstrual health and rights through sustainable sanitary products, inclusive education, and advocacy across South Asia and Africa.
These Young Leaders will join an active global network of Generation17 advocates who are using their voices, leadership and platforms to push forward action on the Global Goals.
Amplifying Youth-Led Impact on Global Stages
Since its inception in 2020, Generation17 has supported a diverse group of Young Leaders from over 17 countries, providing them with Samsung Galaxy technology, mentorship opportunities, and international visibility to enhance their impact. These leaders have showcased the potential of youth leadership and cross-sector collaboration by participating in high-profile events such as the UN General Assembly, climate conferences like COP, and local community initiatives. In 2025, new members will start their journey with an in-person onboarding in New York City during the ECOSOC Youth Forum, attended by UNDP and Samsung representatives. Throughout their two-year commitment, the new cohort will take part in high-level events and forums to share their expertise, connect with global stakeholders, and contribute youth perspectives to critical policy dialogues.
A Partnership for People and Planet
The Generation17 initiative stems from Samsung and UNDP's shared commitment to advancing the Global Goals through the transformative potential of technology and youth engagement. The partnership began in 2019 with the launch of the Samsung Global Goals App, which helps users learn about and support the Goals through everyday use of Samsung Galaxy devices. With nearly 300 million users, the app has raised over $20 million for UNDP's sustainable development efforts. Generation17 highlights the potential of young people as key contributors to achieving the Global Goals by 2030.
As Generation17 continues to grow, it reinforces the belief that young people-equipped with the right tools and opportunities-can be powerful agents of change in the global effort to achieve the Global Goals by 2030.
Learn more about Generation17 at undp.org/generation17
Samsung Global Goals App: https://www.samsung.com/us/apps/samsung-global-goals/
