Indian Voices Championing Change at UN General Assembly 2024

As the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) convenes in New York City this week, a new generation of Indian influencers and creators is making waves on the global stage. These young voices are bringing fresh perspectives to critical issues ranging from climate change to mental health, showcasing India’s growing influence in shaping international dialogue.

Here’s what’s happening at UNGA this week:

Sanjana Sanghi: Youngest Indian Actress at UN Podium

28-year-old actress Sanjana Sanghi delivered a compelling keynote address at the UN General Assembly Hall during the opening ceremony of the Summit of the Future Action Days. As the youngest Indian actress appointed as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India Youth Champion, Sanghi’s presence at the summit underscores the importance of youth involvement in shaping global futures.

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Sanghi’s advocacy extends beyond the UN halls. She has also been invited to share her insights on the mental health crisis affecting girls at The Goals House and speak at the prestigious Goalkeepers Summit presented by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Her multifaceted engagement in these high-level discussions highlights the growing recognition of young voices in addressing critical global issues.

Interestingly, Sanghi’s advocacy extended to domestic issues as well, with mentions of her discussing the Justice Hema Committee Report, highlighting her commitment to addressing concerns both at home and on the international stage.

Nikhil Taneja: Mental Health Champion

Alongside Sanghi, Nikhil Taneja, a dynamic content creator and the co-founder and CEO of Yuvaa, is making his presence felt in New York. Taneja, known for his youth-centric content and advocacy for mental health awareness, is attending the UNGA events for the fifth consecutive year.

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This year marks a significant milestone for Taneja as he serves on the Advisory board of the Goalkeepers event organized by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. His expertise in youth issues and mental health led to his participation in a crucial discussion on the mental health crises facing girls, an event held by Victoria’s Secret in association with the Jed Foundation. Taneja’s role as both a table host and speaker at this event underscores his growing influence in global mental health conversations.

Prajakta Koli: Climate Action and Media Influence

Completing this trio of influential Indian voices is Prajakta Koli, UNDP India’s first Youth Climate Champion. Koli’s agenda in New York is packed with high-profile engagements, all centered around uniting young people worldwide in the fight against climate change.

As an advisory member of the Goalkeepers initiative by the Gates Foundation, Koli attended the Goalkeepers Summit, an event that brings together world leaders and changemakers to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Her participation in this summit highlights the growing recognition of social media influencers in driving global change.

A key highlight of Koli’s UNGA experience is her role as a featured speaker at the SDG panel at UN Headquarters. Here, she is set to discuss the crucial intersection of media influence and sustainable development, leveraging her experience as a popular content creator to shed light on how digital platforms can be used to promote positive change.

Collaborative Efforts and High-Level Engagements

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Sanghi and Koli also had the opportunity to meet with Shoko Noda, the Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Director of UNDP Crisis Bureau. Noda, who previously served as the Resident Representative of UNDP India, represents a crucial link between these young voices and the highest echelons of global governance. This meeting not only validates the efforts of these young influencers but also demonstrates the UN’s commitment to engaging with youth perspectives on critical global issues.

As the week progresses, Sanghi, Taneja, and Koli continue to leverage their platforms and influence to advocate for change, represent youth perspectives, and contribute to discussions on some of the most pressing issues facing our world today.

Their presence at these high-level forums not only amplifies India’s voice on the global stage but also inspires a new generation of changemakers to engage with and shape international policy and action. As these young Indian creators and social media personalities continue to make their mark in New York this week, they are paving the way for a more inclusive, sustainable, and youth-driven approach to global challenges.