On 4-6 March 2024, Global Citizen - a world-leading advocacy organisation - held its first international edition of the Global Citizen NOW action summit in Melbourne, in partnership with the Victorian Government.
The two-day summit brought together around 400 innovators and thought leaders from across Australia and the Asia Pacific’s public and private sectors, universities, not-for-profits and creative industries to drive action on the urgent issues facing the region and the world.
Speakers included Prime Minister of Timor Leste Xanana Gusmão, former Prime Minister of Australia Julia Gillard, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development Alvaro Lario, US Special Envoy for Youth Abby Finkenauer, Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson, We are Warriors, and many more exploring how we can work together to achieve action on challenges and opportunities including the climate crisis and food insecurity, unleashing women’s economic power, strengthening health systems, and unlocking investments into youth-driven entrepreneurship.
32 Global Citizen Youth Leader Awardees, outstanding young leaders from across the region, contributed their unique perspectives through summit panel sessions, attended a capability building workshop and received additional support to scale up their important charitable and advocacy work.
As part of the summit, Study Melbourne hosted an exclusive session with 2022 Global Citizen Prize winner Brianna Fruean, a proud Climate Warrior working to bring small island representation into the global climate conversation. In attendance were Study Melbourne Ambassadors, 2023 Victorian International Education Awards winners and finalists, and the Global Citizen Youth Leaders, who had the opportunity to hear and be inspired by Brianna’s leadership journey and her insights into the importance of partnerships and mentorship for young leaders looking to create impact in their communities.
The summit concluded with Global Citizen Nights, a live music event headlined by Crowded House and honouring the stories of the Youth Leaders. Learn more about Global Citizen NOW: Melbourne.
