The session explored how equitable, long-term collaboration between young peacebuilders and private sector actors can help drive more inclusive, sustainable development and peace.
The event was held in a hybrid format at the Dag Hammarskjöld office in New York and was moderated by Saumya Aggarwal, IPYP’s Youth Engagement Coordinator. Over 30 participants joined the conversation, representing a diverse group of speakers from different sectors, including youth leaders, business representatives and social innovators. Participants exchanged ideas on practical approaches and new models to build trust, shift power and create shared value.
‘As the moderator, I was moved by the shared recognition that youth-private sector partnerships thrive when young people are not seen as passive implementers, but as co-creators and equal partners’, said Saumya Aggarwal.
Breakout sessions provided the chance to collect broader inputs and participants emphasised the importance of genuine co-creation, intergenerational collaboration, and sustained investment in youth-led movements. The conversation also spotlighted the potential of under-explored sectors, like the gaming community, to engage young people and promote peace.
As an overall focus, young peacebuilders were encouraged to approach the private sector as strategic partners, building on their adaptability, resilience, and creativity. Additionally, to consider aligning their work with the business priorities and forge long-term, authentic and impactful collaborations.
‘Sustainable peace and development require more than symbolic inclusion. It demands trust, long-term investment, intergenerational collaboration, and a willingness to share power to shape a more just, inclusive, and peaceful future’, said Saumya Aggarwal.
Group photo with the panelists: Susanna Pollack, President for Games from Change (sitting down to the far left), Jennifer Roberti, from Alvarez & Marsal (standing up with green jacket), and joining from screen: Isaac Cudjoe, CEO for Peace First and, Samuel Mue, Young People’s Action Team, Generation Unlimited. Absent from photo: Katrina Leclerc, IPYP consultant. Photo: Saumya Aggarwal.