Innovators’ Forum: Empowering Youth & Water Innovation

Driving Sustainable Development: Key Insights from Our Innovators’ Forum: Empowering Youth & Water Innovation

As part of our MOU Signing Ceremonies on 4th July, Social Innovation Park (SIP) & Unicorns for Good (UFG) also co-hosted an Innovators Forum revolving around water innovation & youth empowerment. We brought together opinion leaders & industry experts from esteemed organisations to delve into our contributions in these fields.

The panel comprised the following individuals:

1. Mr Pablo Bereciartua: As the current Chairman of the Global Water Partnership (GWP), Mr Bereciartua brings extensive expertise in water resource management and infrastructure development. With a background as Argentina's former Secretary of Infrastructure and Water, his leadership has shaped national policies and major projects.

2. Ms Jennifer Corriero: Co-founder & Executive Director of TakingITGlobal (TIG), Ms Corriero is a highly influential figure in empowering youth to address global challenges. Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women's Executive Network, Ms Corriero's remarkable work has fostered youth engagement and action on a global scale.

3. Mr Michael Toh: As the Director of the Industry and Technology Collaboration Department at PUB, Singapore's national water agency, Mr Toh leads efforts to drive the growth of global water technologies. With his extensive background in SMART technologies, ICT infrastructure, and water supply operations, Mr Toh has been instrumental in the success of Singapore's International Water Week.

4. Mr Atem S. Ramsundersingh: With over 25 years of international experience, Mr Ramsundersingh is a renowned business leader in sustainable development. Currently serving as the CEO of WEnergy Global Pte Ltd & a member of the Global Water Partnership's Board of Directors, he brings a wealth of expertise in renewable energy and project development.

5. Ms Penny Low: A prominent figure in social innovation and sustainability, Ms Low has founded various global movements and serves as a sector developer. Her contributions include SIP, UFG, and advisory roles for technology and innovation organizations. She is also recognised as a founding Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum & a Yale World Fellow, Ms Low also moderated this discussion.

The panel discussion provided a comprehensive overview of the current challenges and opportunities in sustainable development. A notable insight regarding holistic sustainability emerged, where panellists highlighted the need to strike a balance between ecological preservation, economic growth, and social inclusivity to achieve sustainable development goals.

Elaborating on this, the panel discussion also shed light on the power of social innovation and its role in achieving sustainability goals. The experts stressed the importance of integrating social impact, technology, and sustainability to drive positive change within communities and organisations.

To drive better water solutions for the globe, the panel further emphasised the role of innovation and technology in driving sustainable development. SMART technologies, ICT infrastructure, renewable energy advancements, and circular economy practices were highlighted as essential tools for mitigating environmental impacts and fostering sustainable growth.

To tie youth empowerment to innovation, panellists also brought up the unique perspective and potential of young people to drive positive change. Collaborative partnerships among various stakeholders, including youth organizations, businesses, governments, and communities, were identified as critical for effective implementation.

Most notably, an exciting announcement was made regarding the Water Changemaker Awards 2023. This global initiative aims to identify and promote the most promising and innovative water and climate-resilient solutions. The awards will recognize individuals, organizations, and projects that demonstrate exceptional creativity, effectiveness, and sustainability in addressing water-related challenges. By shining a spotlight on these outstanding initiatives, the Water Changemaker Awards aim to inspire further action and create a ripple effect of positive change in water management and resilience worldwide.

SIP & UFG would like to express our heartfelt gratitude towards the esteemed panellists & attendees for their active participation & valuable contributions. The insights gained from the panel discussion, coupled with the introduction of the Water Changemaker Awards 2023, have the potential to inspire action and create a lasting impact on the journey towards a greener and more inclusive future.

With continued collaboration and a shared commitment to sustainable practices, the vision of a greener and more inclusive future can be realised. Ready to make a difference? Get started by signing our UFG pledge here.