Youth for Sustainability Center to Empower Next-Gen Leaders at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025
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Under the patronage of his Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the Youth for Sustainability Center will take center stage during abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025. Scheduled from January 14 to 16 at the ADNEC Abu Dhabi Center,this global initiative by Masdar,the Abu Dhabi future Energy Company,aims to empower the next generation of sustainability leaders.
The center, hosted under the slogan “The present generation builds the future,” will focus on youth-driven innovations, leveraging science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills to address pressing climate challenges. With a rich program designed to foster community participation and international collaboration, the event will explore how young people can harness artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to develop groundbreaking solutions in the climate field.
A Platform for Global Collaboration
The Youth for Sustainability Center will bring together young innovators, government representatives, sector leaders, investors, and experts to discuss critical topics such as technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. According to Mohammed Jameel Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, the platform has been instrumental in enabling thousands of young men and women to contribute to building a lasting future since its launch in 2016.
“The Youth for Sustainability Platform has succeeded in empowering young leaders in line with the UAE’s vision to prepare the next generation of sustainability pioneers,” said Al Ramahi. “During Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, the center will provide a platform for global interaction, allowing young people to play a pivotal role in advancing economic, social, and environmental progress.”
Five Pillars of the Program
The center’s program is built around five key pillars:
- Leveraging Capabilities to Accelerate Progress
- innovation for a Transformative Energy Sector
- Empowering Entrepreneurs to Enhance Resilience
- Developing STEM Skills for a Sustainable Future
- Promoting Global Cooperation and Cultural Exchange
These pillars will guide a series of interactive sessions, workshops, and networking events, including the annual Youth for Sustainability Forum, which will feature panel discussions, keynote speeches, and innovative showcases.
Highlights of the Event
One of the standout features of the center is the “Out of the Lab” exhibition,an innovative marketplace showcasing the latest climate technologies and solutions developed by startups and student projects. Additionally,the “Youth Outreach” workshops will engage participants in simulated climate negotiation experiences,fostering awareness and collaboration.
Another highlight is the Climate Innovation Competition Pitch Day,where young innovators will present their ideas to tackle water scarcity challenges. This competition underscores the center’s commitment to nurturing practical, impactful solutions to global climate issues.
A Legacy of Impact
As its inception in 2018,the Youth for Sustainability center has hosted four editions during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week,attracting over 3,000 participants from around the world. The platform has also featured more than 200 speakers, including 40 heads of state and 65 sector partners. Notably, the center’s contributions extended to international events like COP28, where its members played a notable role, including the appointment of the first-ever Youth Climate Pioneer.
| Key highlights of Youth for Sustainability Center |
|——————————————————-|
| Dates | January 14–16, 2025 |
| location | ADNEC Abu Dhabi Center |
| Host | Masdar |
| Focus Areas | Technology, Sustainability, Entrepreneurship |
| Program Highlights| Youth for Sustainability Forum, Out of the Lab Exhibition, Climate Innovation Competition |
| Participants | Over 3,000 young leaders, 200+ speakers, 40 heads of state |
A Call to Action for Young Innovators
The Youth for Sustainability Center is more than just an event—it’s a movement. By equipping young leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities they need, the platform is shaping the future of sustainability. As the world faces unprecedented climate challenges, initiatives like this are crucial in fostering the next generation of problem-solvers.
If you’re a young innovator passionate about sustainability, this is your chance to make a difference. Join the conversation at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025 and be part of a global effort to build a greener, more sustainable future.
For more facts on how to participate, visit the official Masdar website and stay updated on the latest developments. Together, we can turn ideas into action and create a legacy of sustainability for generations to come.
Empowering the Next Generation: A Conversation with Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori on Youth-led Sustainability Innovations
As the world grapples with pressing climate challenges, the Youth for Sustainability Center is emerging as a beacon of hope, empowering young leaders to drive transformative change. Hosted during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, this global initiative by Masdar brings together innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders to foster collaboration and innovation. to delve deeper into the center’s mission and impact, we sat down with Dr.Layla Al-Mansoori,a renowned sustainability expert and advisor to the Youth for Sustainability Center. In this interview, Dr. Al-Mansoori shares insights on the center’s five-pillar framework, its role in shaping the future of sustainability, and the opportunities it offers for young innovators.
The Vision Behind the Youth for Sustainability Center
Senior Editor: Dr. Al-Mansoori, thank you for joining us. The Youth for Sustainability Center has become a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week. Can you tell us about the vision behind this initiative?
Dr. Layla al-Mansoori: Thank you for having me.The vision is rooted in the belief that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the changemakers of today. The center was established to provide a platform where youth can collaborate, innovate, and contribute to solving some of the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. By leveraging their creativity and passion, we aim to accelerate progress toward a greener, more enduring future.
The Five Pillars of the Program
Senior Editor: The center’s program is built around five key pillars. Could you elaborate on how these pillars guide the initiative’s activities?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: Absolutely. The five pillars are the foundation of our program:
- Leveraging Capabilities to accelerate Progress: We focus on equipping young leaders with the tools and knowledge they need to drive impactful change.
- Innovation for a Transformative Energy Sector: This pillar emphasizes the role of cutting-edge technologies in reshaping the energy landscape.
- Empowering Entrepreneurs to Enhance Resilience: We support young entrepreneurs in developing solutions that address climate challenges while building resilient communities.
- Developing STEM Skills for a Sustainable Future: By fostering STEM education, we ensure that youth are prepared to tackle complex sustainability issues.
- Promoting Global Cooperation and Cultural Exchange: Collaboration is key. We bring together diverse perspectives to foster international partnerships and cultural understanding.
These pillars guide everything from workshops and panel discussions to hands-on exhibitions and competitions.
Highlights of the Event
Senior Editor: The center’s program is packed with exciting activities. What are some of the standout features attendees can look forward to?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: One of the most anticipated events is the “Out of the Lab” exhibition, where startups and student projects showcase groundbreaking climate technologies. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see innovation in action. Additionally, the “Youth Outreach” workshops offer simulated climate negotiation experiences, helping participants understand the complexities of global climate policy.
Another highlight is the Climate Innovation Competition Pitch Day, where young innovators present solutions to water scarcity challenges. This competition not only highlights their creativity but also underscores the center’s commitment to practical, scalable solutions.
A Legacy of Impact
Senior Editor: Since its inception in 2018,the Youth for Sustainability Center has made significant strides. Can you share some of its key achievements?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: Certainly. Over the years, the center has hosted over 3,000 participants from around the world and featured more than 200 speakers, including heads of state and industry leaders. Notably, our members played a pivotal role at COP28, where the first-ever Youth Climate Pioneer was appointed. These milestones reflect the center’s growing influence in shaping global sustainability agendas.
A Call to Action for Young Innovators
Senior Editor: what message would you like to share with young innovators who are passionate about sustainability?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: My message is simple: Your ideas matter. The challenges we face are immense, but so is the potential for innovation. The Youth for Sustainability Center is more than an event—it’s a movement. By joining us at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, you’ll gain the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to turn your ideas into action. Together, we can build a legacy of sustainability for generations to come.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. Al-Mansoori, for sharing your insights. We look forward to seeing the incredible innovations that emerge from this year’s event.
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: Thank you.I’m excited to see what the next generation of leaders will achieve.
