The IVECA Global Youth Leadership Forum is set to take place virtually on September 5 & 6, 2024, under the theme "Building Global Leadership Capacity: Leveraging AI for Sustainable Development Goals and Humanity." This two-day event, sponsored by Incheon Metropolitan City Office of Education East-Asia Global Education Institute (IEGI), aims to cultivate future global leaders by providing middle and high school students with opportunities to engage with international experts and peers from around the world. Through interactive sessions and discussions, the Forum will focus on developing intercultural competence, global citizenship, and future skills essential for addressing the world's most pressing challenges.
In preparation for the event, the IVECA team hosted a Youth Mentor Orientation Workshop on August 29. This session prepared mentors for their crucial role in guiding students throughout the Forum. The mentors, selected for their ability to communicate effectively across cultures, were trained on the goals and objectives of the iGYLF, the program schedule, and how to support students in navigating virtual classrooms and engaging with lecture materials. Their role will be instrumental in fostering collaboration, ensuring student participation, and evaluating student progress during the event.
Following this, on August 30, the mentors led a Student Orientation Session, designed to familiarize participants with the program and their international counterparts. This session introduced students to the iGYLF's focus on the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the application of AI in solving global issues. Students expressed excitement about the opportunity to engage with peers from around the world. One student from India expressed their enthusiasm for meeting new people and tackling important global challenges, stating, "I’m excited about the Forum because we'll be discussing significant issues, reaching resolutions, and working together to make the world a better place."
Additionally, another student emphasized the importance of education systems that promote accessibility, saying, "I want to see local schools set up that allow students to easily grasp what they're learning and continue without a limited future. I want to help provide them with the teachers and facilities they need," highlighting her desire to provide educational opportunities and resources to all. Students also learned how to navigate the IVECA Virtual Classroom, where much of the event's asynchronous interaction will take place. The session concluded with a brief social activity, allowing students to begin building connections with their peers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
These orientation sessions were crucial in setting the stage for a successful Forum, ensuring that both mentors and students are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to fully engage in the event. As the iGYLF approaches, IVECA remains committed to empowering the next generation of global leaders, fostering a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of global issues, and promoting a future where collaboration and intercultural competence are at the forefront of solving global challenges.
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