Africa
THE world’s youth represent more than half of the global population, and in Kenya, this demographic is even more pronounced. The United Nations Foundation has launched Once Upon a Future, a global campaign calling on young people across the globe, including here in Kenya, to engage in the UN Summit of the Future and join millions taking action for a better future.
This campaign invites Kenyan youth, who are at the heart of change on the continent, to participate in shaping the future of global cooperation. A key highlight of this campaign was a YouTube streaming event on September 22, which featured a diverse cast of creators, influencers, and leaders from around the world. The event explored the role of young people in building a better future, encouraging youth in Kenya to play an active part in global decision-making.
Hosted by the United Nations on September 22 and 23 on the sidelines UNGA in New York, the Summit of the Future brought together world leaders, civil society, and young change makers to reset global cooperation and address the major challenges of the 21st century. For Kenyan youth, this summit offered a unique opportunity to voice their perspectives on the future they want to see — one that prioritizes peace, security, digital inclusion, and sustainable development.
A Call to Kenyan Youth: What If We Get It Right?
The Once Upon a Future campaign takes an optimistic approach, asking the simple yet powerful question: “What if we get it right?” In collaboration with award-winning creative agency Droga5, the campaign aims to engage Kenya’s youth, encouraging them to imagine a future where key global challenges — from climate change to digital equity — are addressed through united, forward-thinking action.
Kenyan leadership is already emphasizing the importance of this global collaboration. President William Ruto has advocated for stronger multilateralism and more effective global governance. He emphasizes Kenya’s commitment to climate action and sustainable development, particularly as part of Africa’s response to climate change and economic challenges. This aligns with the core values of the Once Upon a Future campaign, which seeks to empower young people to lead the charge in global solutions for these pressing issues.
Beyond traditional methods, this campaign uses compelling visuals, including eye-catching graphics, animations, and video content designed to resonate with Generation Z and young leaders in Kenya. It will amplify the voices and hopes of young people, ensuring their demands for change are heard during the Summit of the Future.
In addition to inspiring engagement during the Summit, the campaign encouraged individuals to take small but meaningful actions in their daily lives through the UN’s ActNow platform, with a target of 2 million actions worldwide by September 30. Kenyan youth are invited to contribute by making everyday choices that support sustainable development — from adopting eco-friendly habits to promoting inclusivity in their communities.
Unpacking the Summit for Kenyan Youth
As part of the campaign, a youth-centric broadcast of the Summit of the Future premiered on YouTube on September 22, and was designed to educate and entertain young viewers. Creators and influencers broke down the Summit’s goals and the Pact for the Future — a new global agreement aimed at strengthening cooperation on peace, security, and sustainable development.
Hosted by Lea’h Sampson and Hallie Haas, the broadcast featured well-known personalities like Heidi Becker, Felipe Neto, and Dan Rosen, alongside creators and UN experts. The broadcast was an opportunity for Kenyan youth to learn, engage, and feel inspired to take part in building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
Building a Better Future for Kenya and Beyond
With Kenya’s youth population leading innovation and activism in areas like climate justice, entrepreneurship, and digital development, the Once Upon a Future campaign offers a platform to connect their efforts with a global movement. As the world moves towards addressing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Kenya’s young people have the potential to play a pivotal role in the discussions and decisions that will shape the future of global cooperation.
The Once Upon a Future campaign is about more than just hope — it’s about taking action and believing in a future that reflects the aspirations of the next generation. Kenyan youth can join the movement by visiting ActNow and participating in this global effort to create a better world for everyone.
Distributed by African Media Agency (AMA) on behalf of UN Foundation.
A.I
Oct. 4, 2024
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