Insights from the Global Opportunity Youth Network’s 5th Annual Global Convening in Pune
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PUNE: The 5th Annual GOYN Global Convening hosted by Lighthouse Communities Foundation, in collaboration with Pune Municipal Corporation and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, is taking place from November 17th to 21st, 2024, in Pune, Maharashtra. This year’s theme, “Transforming Youth Livelihoods: Pathways to Full Potential,” sets the stage for powerful conversations and collaborative action toward creating better futures for youth across the globe.
The Gala Day kicked off with a celebration at Balewadi Stadium on the 17th, Sunday, infusing the energy of Puneri culture. The atmosphere was electric, as over 2,000 alumni, 300 dynamic young leaders, and adult allies from more than 15 communities spanning 11 countries gathered together to share knowledge and best practices to build inclusive economic pathways.
The event saw the presence of distinguished dignitaries including Dr. Ganesh Natarajan – Cofounder and Chairman of the Lighthouse Communities Foundation, Eric Garcetti – U S Ambassador to India, Shekhar Singh – Municipal Commissioner of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, Prithviraj B.P. – Additional Municipal Commissioner of Pune Municipal Corporation, Jamie McAuliffe – Founder – Director of the Global Opportunity Youth Network and Sayalee Marathe – Founder of Aadyaa.
“Lighthouse Communities Foundation is delighted to host an array of attendees from all over the world, allowing us to showcase our efforts in building livelihoods and an inclusive community. This Convening has already set the tone for a meaningful dialogue—one that reflects our collective desire for change and innovation. Over the next few days, we will engage in insightful discussions and I am confident that the conversations we will have will catalyze actionable outcomes. We intend to delve deep into the pressing issues facing youth in today’s rapidly evolving world.”, Dr. Ganesh Natarajan – co-founder and Chairman of the Lighthouse Communities Foundation.
In the coming days of the Convening, the GOYN partners and subject experts will have the opportunity to visit the Lighthouse Centers, where they will lead engaging conversations, breakout sessions, plenary discussions, and community visits. These activities will be designed to inspire innovation, share best practices, and highlight the promise of youth partnerships in driving systems change. The interactions at these centers will offer invaluable insights into the work being done on the ground, while also serving as a platform for exchanging ideas that can be scaled and replicated across regions.
These sessions will encourage deep dives into critical issues, fostering thought-provoking dialogue on how youth can take a leading role in advancing economic opportunity, social inclusion, and community-driven development. With a focus on creating tangible, sustainable solutions, participants will be challenged to reimagine possibilities and explore new approaches to old challenges.
“As we look to the future, we must recognize that the greatest asset any nation has is its youth. By investing in the potential of young people, creating opportunities for skill-building, and fostering cross-cultural dialogue, we can ensure that the next generation not only inherits a better world but actively shapes it. It is through initiatives like this Convening that we unlock new pathways for economic opportunity, empowering youth to become the leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow.“, Eric Garcetti – U.S Ambassador to India
“It is both an honor and a privilege for Pune to have been the host city for such a diverse and inspiring group of individuals from across the globe. Events like these offer a tangible platform for creating real opportunities. For many young people, these gatherings represent a unique chance to unlock new pathways toward economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods.”, Prithviraj B P – Additional Municipal Commissioner of Pune Municipal Corporation
“I felt truly privileged that Pune had the opportunity to host such a diverse group of individuals from across the globe. Events like these foster cross-cultural exchange and also provide a valuable platform to accelerate important conversations about the future of our youth. By bringing together voices and perspectives from different corners of the world, we can collectively address the challenges young people face in securing sustainable livelihoods and create impactful solutions that will shape their futures.“, Shekar Singh – Municipal Commissioner of Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation
“At GOYN, we are committed to working with communities around the world to create economic mobility for ‘Opportunity Youth.’ The opening day of the 5th Annual Convening has been a magnificent experience, witnessing the power of diverse cultures coming together to celebrate the youth—the future. It is a reminder of how essential it is to build global connections and amplify voices from every corner of the world, all united in the shared mission of empowering young people and unlocking new pathways for their success.”, Jamie McAuliffe – Director of the Global Opportunity Youth Network
The Convening will conclude with a special celebration marking the 5th anniversary of the Global Opportunity for Youth Network (GOYN). This milestone offers a moment to reflect on the significant journey of the movement—its growth, its challenges, and its many achievements. The closing moments will serve as both a celebration of the past and a launchpad for the future, as the community looks ahead to the next phase of impact.
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