DOHA (Qatar): Generation Amazing youth advocates attended a training session organised in collaboration with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Permanent Mission of The State of Qatar to the United Nations (UN).
The training introduced advocates to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of their journey to deliver positive social change through the power of football – in Qatar and around the world.
During the three-day online course, youth learned about the SDGs, acquired knowledge about sport and sustainable development, and built both leadership and negotiation skills.
Fourteen young people aged 16-24 took part in the training after being selected to take part in a new advocacy programme launched by Generation Amazing last summer.
The course was introduced by Hassan Al Thawadi, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC), Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al Thani, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to the UN, Marco A. Suazo, Head of New York Office, UNITAR, Isabelle Picco, Ambassador of the Monaco Mission to the UN, and football legend John Barnes, who notably played for Liverpool and England during his illustrious career.
During his opening address, Al Thawadi encouraged youth to tackle the challenges they face head on and embody resilience as advocates for change.
“Through your journey with us we aim to provide you with the tools to make a difference in your communities,” said Al Thawadi. “You carry with you a message for everyone else and especially for future generations with regards to the limitless power of sport and its contribution to the betterment of people’s lives.”
Speaking of the contribution youth will make to SDGs and sharing a message of hope for the youth, Al Thani said: “Youth advocates are not only considered the driving force for positive change but also a key factor for finding solutions to social issues. I hope that youth will understand sport’s ability to inspire, bring hope and transform humanity by uniting us to work together, as well as how they can contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.”
Suazo said: “For UNITAR, it’s a real pleasure and honour to inaugurate today a programme for strengthening youth engagement with Sustainable Development Goals and the Agenda 2030. The programme is to encompass for these young participants in Qatar, the tools to enable them to amplify the importance of peace, security and development.”
