UNITING YOUTH FOR GLOBAL CHANGE

11th University Scholars Leadership Symposium 2023

In a world that often seems fractured and divided, where the challenges facing humanity can seem insurmountable, a beacon of hope exists. For eleven remarkable years, the University Scholars Leadership Symposium (USLS), organised by Humanitarian Affairs Asia, has been igniting the flames of inspiration in young hearts, urging them to step forward and take their place on the global stage.

USLS is not just an event, but a transformative journey designed specifically for the next generation of leaders. Its mission is clear: to equip young minds with the knowledge, skills, and passion to navigate our ever-changing world and lead it towards sustainability. The symposium is a sanctuary where young individuals discover their true calling, or if they are still unsure, they are gently guided towards finding it.

A week teeming with experiences that would etch an unforgettable impression in the hearts and minds of 452 delegates from 46 countries gathered at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, weaving together a rich tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and aspirations.

What made this symposium truly exceptional were the voices that echoed through its halls. They were not just speakers but humanitarians actively shaping a better world. These individuals had transcended barriers and broken-down boundaries to effect positive change in fields as diverse as education, environment, social justice and animal rights. They were living proof that one person, one idea, can spark a ripple that becomes a wave of transformation.

However, USLS is more than just inspirational speeches; it is about turning words into actions. Delegates were given the incredible opportunity to step out of their comfort zones and into the world, to roll up their sleeves and make a tangible difference. The Kindness Day was a testament to their commitment, as they planted 2,000 mangroves to protect fragile coastal ecosystems, nurtured 1,200 trees to combat deforestation, cleaned the longest river in Bangkok to preserve the marine life and brought fresh hope with a coat of paint to a minority school tucked away in the suburbs.

As the 11th USLS ended, the delegates departed with hearts full of inspiration, minds brimming with ideas and a deep sense of purpose. They were not just attendees but torchbearers of hope, ready to light the path towards a more compassionate, sustainable, and interconnected world.