Young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are already shaping the ideas, solutions, and conversations that will define the future of sustainable development.

From 11 to 13 June 2026, the UNDP participated in the fourth edition of Youth Speak & Compete, an annual competition organized by our partner, Saudi Youth Society.

The initiative provides young people with a platform to express their ideas, strengthen their leadership and communication skills, and engage in meaningful dialogue around issues that matter to their communities and the Kingdom.

Saudi Youth Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young people through three core pillars: creativity, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. Through its initiatives and programmes, the organization seeks to connect young people, support emerging entrepreneurs, and nurture generations of aspiring leaders.

Representing the UNDP, Ms. Rawia Salih, Programme Coordinator, served as a judge during the competition, contributing her expertise to the evaluation of the participating teams and their proposals.

Five teams took part in the competition, presenting innovative ideas and solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. Their presentations demonstrated how young people can connect creativity and leadership with practical responses to development challenges.

Two winning teams were selected based on the strength, creativity, and potential impact of their proposals, with particular attention given to solutions supporting Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Their ideas highlighted the role young people can play in promoting sustainability and encouraging more responsible practices.

As part of their recognition, the winning teams will join the UNDP for a one-month engagement through the UNDP Summer Academy Training Programme. The programme will provide them with an opportunity to further develop their ideas, strengthen their skills, gain professional exposure, and deepen their understanding of development work.

The UNDP’s participation in Youth Speak & Compete reflects its continued commitment to youth empowerment and to partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for young people. By providing platforms for learning, dialogue, and practical experience, Saudi Youth Society and the UNDP are enabling young leaders transform promising ideas into contributions to sustainable development.