Workshop: Elevating Youth Engagement from International Exposure to Local Action

Frankie Au is a student from the first cohort of BSc in Sustainable and Green Finance at HKUST, and the Network of Environmental Students’ Society. Being passionate about sustainability and interested in climate actions, carbon markets, business and environmental law, he has taken up various roles promoting sustainability since high school. He believes more promotion and expertise sharing is needed to incentivize and concert people’s efforts to achieve global sustainability targets.

Laila’s sustainability career began in Hong Kong after moving from Germany and earning a MSc in Environmental Management from HKU. Throughout her academic and professional journey, she gained valuable experience in managing local and international sustainability initiatives. As a Policy & Research Officer at BEC, she contributes to the development of thought leadership and implementing change-making projects that support Hong Kong’s net-zero transition and improve business sustainability.

My Sustainability Goals for 2023:

I hope for a more sustainable Hong Kong achieved through cross-sector collaboration, strong leadership, and amplified efforts, with a particular focus on waste reduction and biodiversity conservation.

Valerie Chiu is a consultant at Blunomy, a strategic consulting firm based in Hong Kong. Blunomy partners with financial institutions, businesses and entrepreneurs around the world to drive the transition towards a regenerative society that is decarbonized, circular and inclusive.
Valerie studied Economics and Environmental Studies at the University of Toronto. During her studies, she was a member of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network as the SDG Coordinator of the university. Together with her team, she established the university’s SDG Student Hub to raise awareness of the SDGs and provide opportunities for students to implement the goals within the local context.

My sustainability goals for 2023:

I hope everyone in Hong Kong will genuinely see sustainability as the key opportunity to make a real difference in our world, instead of treating it as something we “have to do” in order to comply with regulations.

Ms Pui Yee Leung, Carly, is a member of the UN Asia-Pacific Youth Advisory Group on Environmental and Climate Justice, where she actively contributes to the advancement of these critical issues. Carly’s passion and expertise extend beyond her advisory role. Recognizing the urgent need for a just climate transition, she co-founded the Climate Incubator. This initiative serves as a dynamic platform for individuals seeking to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively address climate change. As an incubator that empowers youth, she sets up Climate Incubator to foster collaborative learning, networking, and the development of green skills.

My sustainability goals for 2024:

• Drive the just transition by promoting green jobs in the Asia Pacific Region.
• Connect international climate topics to local and regional climate action through climate education and youth engagement.
• Co-create with various like-minded organizations to foster synergy.

Kelvin is a dedicated marine conservationist, focusing on advocating for Marine Protected Areas and encouraging sustainable marine resource use. At WWF-Hong Kong, he manages the Shui Hau project; he designed Hong Kong’s first clam measurement gauge, and conducts ecological surveys and promotes coastal ecology. Kelvin is also leading the “Reviving Our Corals” initiative, a joint effort with Coral Academy at CUHK, which aims to restore coral communities in Hong Kong through nature-based solutions.

My sustainability goals for 2023:

Hong Kong should designate 30% of its waters as Marine Protected Areas to protect our diverse sea life and habitats from current threats, since only 5% are currently protected.

Justin Yeung is the Co-Founder of 2041 Hong Kong, a youth organisation dedicated to promoting sustainable development and climate action. In this role, he oversees strategic implementations and management across internal functions and provides mentorship to a growing team of young professionals and university students working on various projects.

At Techtronic Industries (TTI), Justin holds the position of Senior Sustainability and Communications Executive. He has played a pivotal role in advancing the company’s sustainability efforts. Starting his career in the Leadership Development Program (Management Trainee), Justin has gained extensive experience across various functions within TTI. Currently, he leads the social sustainability function for the region, collaborating closely with other regions on strategy, communications, reporting, and impact engagement. Justin also contributes to sustainable product design and manages the sustainability department’s budget. He launched the Youth Development Program, an internship initiative aimed at nurturing talent in the industry. Additionally, he coordinates employee engagement efforts and manages the partnership with Habitat for Humanity for regional projects.

In his previous role, Justin supported the establishment of supply chain memberships, conducted climate risk assessments, and managed ESG data and ratings.

Justin has been recognized for his achievements, being selected as one of the AmCham Future Leaders in 2023. Recently, he received the UBS Award at Melofest 2024 with IMPACT41 for a Nature-based Solution (NbS) addressing marine biodiversity loss and decarbonization. Beyond his professional commitments, Justin volunteers with the United World College Graduates Organization (UWCGO), where he advocates for cultural diversity and exposure in education, while strengthening alumni connections, and engagement with the UWC movement.

His contributions to sustainable development, climate action, and social initiatives have established him as a young leader driving positive change in both local and global communities.

My sustainability goals for 2024:

• Promote youth engagement in sustainable development initiatives and foster inclusive thought leadership and influence.
• Encourage widespread adoption and recognition of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) to address the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.
• Foster community building and collaboration to empower individuals, organizations, and industries in driving sustainable development efforts.