Ignite the Future: Empowering Youth for Global Change Fireside Chat

Ignite the Future: Empowering Youth for Global Change Fireside Chat

Aside from our Innovators Forum, Social Innovation Park (SIP) & Unicorns For Good (UFG) also hosted a Fireside Chat more focused on youth empowerment. For this chat, we invited the following individuals to share their insights:

1. Ms Jennifer Corriero: As the Co-founder and Executive Director of TakingITGlobal (TIG), Jennifer Corriero has been at the forefront of empowering youth to address global challenges. Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women's Executive Network, Jennifer's remarkable work has fostered youth engagement and action on a global scale. Her expertise and passion for youth empowerment have driven impactful initiatives, making her a true inspiration for young change-makers.

2. Mr Michael Furdyk: As Director of Innovation and Co-founder of TakingITGlobal, Michael Furdyk is a renowned leader in global education and technology innovation. His influence extends to prestigious platforms such as the Oprah Winfrey Show and TED. Michael was a self-made millionaire at the age of 17 and his dedication to empowering young individuals has earned him recognition as one of Teen People's "Twenty Teens that will Change the World." With over 100 keynote presentations across 30 countries, Michael has been instrumental in promoting youth engagement and educational reform.

3. Ms Elisabetta Jiang: Co-founder of Unicorns for Good, Elisabetta is a young leader in the realm of conscious leadership and social impact. Through her global platform, Elisabetta cultivates and supercharges conscious leaders to create "impact unicorns." As a serial entrepreneur and a member of the WEF Global Shapers Community, she brings her mission of uniting different cultures towards a more inclusive and mindful world to the international stage. Elisabetta also served as the moderator for this chat.

During the fireside chat, the panellists shared their invaluable insights, inspiring young individuals to become agents of change. TIG Co-founders Jennifier and Michael shared their lessons learned from awarding over 7000 micro-grants to young social innovators. The panellists emphasized the importance of empowering youth and providing them with platforms to voice their ideas, take action, and lead positive change. They highlighted the immense potential and fresh perspectives that young individuals bring to addressing global challenges.

From left to right: Ms Jennifer Corriero, Mr Michael Furdyk, Ms Elisabetta Jiang

Another takeaway was that collaboration and connection across cultures and geographies were crucial in addressing global issues. The panellists stressed the need for diverse partnerships and networks to leverage collective wisdom and create sustainable solutions. This goes hand in hand with the role of conscious leadership in driving impactful change. Panellists encouraged young individuals to embrace values-driven leadership and make conscious choices that prioritize social impact, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Panellists also expressed the transformative power of technology & innovation as a catalysts for driving global change. They showcased inspiring examples where technology-enabled solutions have brought about positive social & environmental impact.

Mr Michael Furdyk, Cofounder of TIG, sharing how he was inspired to pursue a career technology & innovation.

Finally, the fireside chat also took the opportunity to launch the transformative book 'Flourish' by Jennifer Corriero, which explores the boundless potential of youth to create positive change. 'Flourish' serves as a workbook and guide, providing 50 powerful stories of social innovators, practical strategies and tools for young change-makers to tackle global challenges, amplify their voices, and make a meaningful impact. Through its pages, readers are inspired to embrace their unique abilities, connect with like-minded individuals, and contribute to building a more sustainable & inclusive world.

Ms Jennifer Corriero, Cofounder of TIG, sharing her reasons behind founding TIG & successful worldwide innovations.

SIP & UFG would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the esteemed panellists for their valuable insights and unwavering dedication to empowering youth for global change. Their wisdom, experience, and passion have provided a roadmap for young individuals to embark on a journey of transformation and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable and inclusive world. Ready to join us in our efforts? Get started by signing our UFG pledge here.

Ms Elisabetta Jiang with Mr Furdyk and Ms Corriero, both of whom signed the Unicorns for Good pledge.