One Young World Summit Munich, 2025

One Young World Delegates and Partner Executives will be welcomed at Munich’s Olympiahalle, where the reception and dinner will be held before the Opening Ceremony. The Olympiahalle is located within the iconic architecture of Munich’s Olympic Park, the venue of the 1972 Summer Olympics. In keeping with the venues legacy, delegates will be able to choose from a variety of international dishes, as well as a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

The City of Munich and its partners invite you to an inspiring Opening Ceremony at Munich's
iconic Olympiahalle. Get ready for an evening packed with live performances by local artists - from hip-hop beats to alphorn sounds, inspiring keynote speeches from our partners and Counsellors, and our flag bearing ceremony - proudly representing delegates from 196 countries!

The Mayor of Munich, Dieter Reiter, will officially welcome the delegates, and the MünchnerKindl, the city’s symbolic figure, will guide you through the evening. Guests from the host city partners and the public will join this celebration, making it a truly inclusive event. The Mayor of Munich, Dieter Reiter, will officially welcome the delegates, and the Münchner Kindl, the city’s symbolic figure, will guide you through the evening. Guests from the host city partners and the public will join this celebration, making it a truly inclusive event.

The Opening Ceremony will include keynotes from the Mayor of the City, Dieter Reiter, partner executives from Siemens, BMW and Deloitte, and OYW Counsellors. We will also be welcoming amazing local artists and performers, showcasing the immense creative talent Munich has to offer.

One Young World co-founders, David Jones and Kate Robertson welcome delegates to the Summit.

A welcome address from leading British Actress Nathalie Emmanuel. The Game of Thrones star will inspire delegates and talk about the power of young leaders to create impact and drive change.

Dr. Benedikt Franke, Vice-Chairman and CEO of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), will deliver a critical keynote addressing the evolving landscape of global security and why young leaders need to be at the heart of driving international co-operation.

As the world faces mounting health and climate challenges, this session explores the transformative power of youth leadership as a catalyst for lasting impact. Featuring AstraZeneca’s Chief Financial Officer in conversation with inspirational AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellows, it demonstrates how investing in and supporting young people is key to building resilient, equitable systems that create lasting benefits for people, society and planet. Join the session to hear how youth-driven solutions are shaping a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.

Join Lord Peter Hain, Thuli Madonsela, and Ashraf Garda for a profound dialogue on South Africa’s journey. The discussion will revisit the triumphs of dismantling apartheid while also confronting the unfinished work of achieving true equality. Together, they will examine challenges of inequality, corruption, and reconciliation inspiring a renewed commitment to freedom, truth and accountability.

In light of the current pivotal moment between significant challenges and opportunities for transformation, Danone, as a food company, is committed to being part of the solution. Nathalie Alquier, our Chief Sustainability Officer, will present a strategic vision for sustainability transformation, linking economic performance and positive impact. Through concrete local initiatives she will demonstrate our ongoing efforts to build a resilient future for our company, while shaping a society where health, nature, and people can thrive together.

The future of work is being written right now – by you. In this new era, AI isn’t here to replace us, but to elevate us: as our coach, creative partner, and catalyst for growth. The true revolution isn’t powered by machines, but by people who dare to learn, adapt, and lead with empathy. As technology transforms how we work, the most valuable skill will be our ability to stay human – curious, ethical, and inspired to create a future where everyone can thrive.

This insightful panel discussion will explore the transformative power of individual action in driving change. Our panellists—Ilka Horstmeier, H.E. Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, and Dr. Gabriela de la Torre—will share their perspectives on how leadership and trust will be crucial for sparking collective movements. They will discuss the courage, vision, and determination required to move from an initial idea to widespread impact and inspire attendees to recognise and harness their own potential to be the 'one' that initiates meaningful progress in their communities and organisations.

Sir Bob Geldof will deliver a keynote speech to mark the 40th anniversary of Live Aid. He'll reflect on the extraordinary day in 1985 when musicians united for a global concert, highlighting the immense power of collective action. Sir Bob will discuss the lasting legacy of the event, its role in shaping modern charity and activism, and the continued challenges of global poverty. The keynote will be a powerful and inspiring moment, looking back at a pivotal moment in cultural history and looking forward to future challenges.

Maria Ressa’s keynote speech will be a powerful call to defend truth and democracy in an era of disinformation. The Nobel Peace Prize Laureate will speak with urgency about the dangers of unchecked lies amplified through social media, warning how they will erode trust, polarise societies, and threaten freedoms. Drawing from her experience as a journalist under attack, Ressa will emphasise courage, integrity, and solidarity as essential tools for resisting authoritarianism. She will urge individuals to take responsibility for the information they consume and share, highlighting the moral duty of protecting facts.

Hear from five amazing One Young World delegates about the work they are doing to advance circularity

Delegates will be able to attend Interactive Stage sessions, SAP Skills Hub session, Workshops, and Action Sessions. Lunch will be provided in this break, as well as networking opportunities.

Drawing on lessons from the OYW University Forum and initiatives between the University of Bath and institutions worldwide, this session explores how universities can be catalysts for impactful leadership. Panelists will share first-hand perspectives in discussing how student leaders, faculty, and global networks are working together to address pressing challenges both on campus and beyond.

This session will feature two young leaders selected as AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellows for their incredible contributions to advocating for health equity. Join this session to learn more about their work and how AstraZeneca will be supporting their efforts to make a positive impact for people, society and planet.

Job titles don’t tell the full story - skills do. Join this session to explore the shift from role-centric to skill-centric organisations and discover why putting skills first makes teams more adaptable and high-performing. Hear how SAP is building a skill-led future and learn what it takes to transform the global workforce to meet the demands of tomorrow.

From keeping global workforces engaged, to acting as a responsible business, leadership that reimagines the employee experience is more important than ever. How can employers galvanise, motivate and inspire people to thrive? This extended session features a panel of global people leaders who will reflect on how purpose, support, and people-first leadership can build resilient, innovative and caring teams.

Join Rachelle Graham, Traceability Leader for IKEA Supply, in exploring how transparency and traceability are transforming the future of our supply chain. This session will highlight the crucial role of these strategies in building more sustainable and responsible
practices, as well as operational efficiency – showing that what’s right for the planet is also what’s best for business.

Throughout the presentation, there will be opportunities for questions and discussions as we delve deeper into the approach IKEA has taken towards traceability throughout its operations.

As ESG continues to evolve, leading companies are rethinking how purpose is embedded in strategy and operations. In this session, Barbara Spiegel, Partner and Sustainability Lead at EY Switzerland, and Dr. Chitkala Kalidasshare, SVP and Head of ESG at Bayer, share their perspectives on what’s next for ESG and organisastions passionate to maintain a purpose-driven ethos.

What happens when two South African women of different racial backgrounds, carrying the legacy of Apartheid, collide unexpectedly? They become besties and start a podcast exploring the realities of race and privilege through personal stories. From behind the mic, we’ve learned that diversity is what truly connects us to the human experience. Ignoring it keeps us trapped in cycles of societal polarisation and solutions that don’t address the roots of racism. This session is about honest conversations, personal power, and the everyday choices that help dismantle racism. Our goal is to spark empathetic curiosity; the kind that makes diversity something we don’t just talk about, but live together.

In a world becoming increasingly divided by borders and perspectives, creativity offers a common language that unites us all. Bringing together artists from the Bavarian State Ballet and Princess Sophie of Bavaria, this session explores how artistic expression transcends geography, politics and history.

Join us to explore how creativity not only entertains, but can be a powerful tool for building empathy, respect and shared identity.

This panel will showcase innovative urban projects of Munich´s Zero Waste Innovation Hub that promote circular economy practices within the local business community. We will engage in discussions with representatives from the City of Munich, an established company, and a startup to explore how the transformation to a circular economy can be effectively achieved, as well as the challenges that must be addressed along the way. Join us to discover how Munich is leading the way in resource efficiency and sustainable development through practical solutions and partnerships in the circular economy.

Can entrepreneurship be a driving force for peace? In this interactive session, young entrepreneurs who have managed to successfully develop their businesses in challenging environments exchange thoughts on how innovation and enterprise can support hope and stability.

Through thought-provoking statements, the audience will vote, debate, and challenge assumptions about the link between business and peacebuilding.

Ready to unleash your most ambitious creative ideas? Generative AI isn't just a new technology - it's your personal creative sidekick, ready to bring your vision to life faster and more vividly than ever before. In this session, The Brandtech Group cuts through the hype to give you a practical playbook. Discover the essential tools that put world-class production at your fingertips, master the art of prompting to command a consistent brand voice and a stunning visual identity, and learn which models will perfectly execute your message. Leave ready to make GenAI your indispensable teammate, turning limitless potential into tangible, brilliant results.

The panel discussion will spotlight the plight of Iranian prisoners of conscience, focusing on their resilience and struggles under harsh conditions. Speakers will emphasise the courage of activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens who will continue to demand basic freedoms despite intimidation and abuse. A video message from Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi will be shared, delivering her voice of defiance and hope from behind prison walls.

In this inspiring session, IKEA leaders Christina Niemelä Ström and Alice Hong Gu share a powerful intergenerational story of courage, sustainability, and circularity. From the early days of IWAY - IKEA’s pioneering sustainability standard - to transforming the cotton industry and embracing circular design, they illustrate how bold questions and everyday actions can reshape systems.
Through personal reflections and practical examples, the talk emphasizes that real change begins with mindset, collaboration, and the courage to lead in the unknown. Attendees are invited to become the next generation of changemakers - turning good intentions into lasting impact and making leadership the most renewable resource of all.

Join Ezgi Barcenas, L'Oréal Groupe's Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer, as she shares how the world’s leading beauty company is pursuing partnerships and innovation to catalyze scalable solutions and systemic transformation. Discover how L’ACCELERATOR, L’Oréal’s sustainable innovation accelerator program endowed with 100 million euros over the next five years, aims to identify and scale breakthrough technologies that tackle climate, nature and circularity challenges in the beauty industry and beyond.

How can we move from a take-make-waste world to one that thrives on circular thinking? Join an inspiring conversation between the Dutch Ambassador for Youth, Education and Work and a visionary entrepreneur who’s turning their bold ideas into real impact. Together, they’ll explore how a single entrepreneur can drive the global transition toward a circular economy.

Progress through technology & Progress through innovation

In our rapidly changing world, which is characterized by geopolitical, economic uncertainty and by an overwhelming flow of news and social media, the quest for stability in our professional lives and a supportive work environment are regaining importance. We’re not just looking for a paycheck; we want stable environments where we can thrive, grow, and feel secure.

Nevertheless, adaptability is an essential prerequisite for personal growth in this digital age, where AI and innovative digital tools are revolutionizing how we work. Organizations and companies that cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, embrace the use of digital tools, facilitate knowledge sharing and offer networking and mentoring are becoming increasingly popular. Furthermore, elements such as workplace wellbeing, equality and established diversity initiatives are highly valued. We seek out environments where we can be our authentic selves without fear of discrimination, microaggressions or hostility. Something that seems so self-evident but often isn't.

Terry Crews will deliver a keynote that will confront toxic masculinity with honesty, vulnerability, and strength. He will share personal stories that will illustrate how traditional notions of manhood will often silence emotions and perpetuate harm. Crews will challenge these destructive patterns by emphasising empathy, accountability, and respect as foundations for healthier relationships. He will encourage men to redefine masculinity through compassion and courage, showing that true strength will come from authenticity rather than dominance. His keynote will inspire audiences to break cycles of abuse, embrace vulnerability as power, and foster a culture where equality and kindness will thrive.

Hate and hate-related crimes have been rising globally, underscoring deepening societal divisions and the persistence of prejudice. In this mini-plenary session, three exceptional young leaders will share their experiences, insights, and actions to foster greater levels of tolerance between different cultures, identities and ethnicities.

Join Andy Nulman and Stephen Bronfman, the visionary founders of PACT!, as they host the presentation for the inaugural PACT! Break the Hate Award! The Break the Hate Challenge, launched in collaboration with One Young World, is a bold global call to action. This award recognizes young leaders who are creatively and courageously fighting hate in all its forms—including racism, xenophobia, antisemitism, anti-Muslim bigotry, misogyny, and attacks on the LGBTQI+ community. In this session we will hear from the winners who are using their talent, resilience, and radical goodness to make hate socially unacceptable and turn up the volume on empathy.

Delegates will be able to attend Interactive Stage sessions, SAP Skills Hub session, Workshops, Action Sessions, and networking opportunities.

Henkel Adhesive Technologies is pioneering sustainable transformation through cutting-edge material science - but innovation alone isn’t enough. In this session, Ulla Hüppe, VP Sustainability, joins a rising young Henkel talent to explore how translating complex science into compelling stories can drive real-world change. Together, they’ll share how authentic collaboration between scientists, communicators, and young changemakers can bridge the gap between the lab and the market - and accelerate sustainable impact across 800 industries.

This session is your chance to tap into your own power and help create workplaces where everyone can thrive. Together, we’ll explore why inclusion matters - not just for our organisations, but for each of us as leaders and drivers within our organisations. We’ll unpack what it truly means to be an ally, how to show up with intention, and the ways we can all make a real difference.

This is a learning journey we’ll take together. You’ll walk away with practical tools, fresh insights, and everyday strategies to strengthen your role to help foster inclusion across your teams, communities, and organisations.

Let’s learn, reflect, and act - so that every one of us feels seen, valued, and heard.

Despite continued awareness of mental health, patriarchal expectations and traditional ideals of masculinity still weigh heavily on men. This conversation explores what is required to ensure men do not suffer in silence, and examines why men should not have to reach a crisis point to start prioritising their mental health and wellbeing. Join this session to understand how outdated models of masculinity must be challenged, why mental health must be seen not as a weakness to fight against, but as the foundation for true strength and authentic success.

Equity is not just about access to services, it's about ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to live a safe, healthy and fulfilling life. This session spotlights leaders whose lived experiences have directly shaped their initiatives, highlighting the inequalities faced by marginalised communities across multiple areas of society, including healthcare, employment, and social systems. Together, panelists explore how inclusive, community-focused solutions are transforming the way underrepresented groups are seen, supported and valued.

Companies need to think creatively about how to improve sustainability across their value chains, from big changes such as switching to renewable electricity to small changes such as closing a vent on an exhaust hood. And yes, even thinking about how cows can support more sustainable product of penicillin.

This session explores Financial Inclusion through Entrepreneurship (FITE) in greater depth. This session will bring together Absa subject matter experts, and an entrepreneurship programmes beneficiary to unpack how inclusive entrepreneurship can unlock sustainable livelihoods across underserved communities.

Hear from a panel of your peers, outstanding One Young World Ambassadors who attended past Summits and have gone on to create industry-changing impact. This session will explore how Delegates can return to their employer and leverage the resources and influence of big business to create transformative positive change. Learn from their experiences, and ask them directly how to make the most of your lifetime membership of the One Young World Community.

What does it take to turn a bold idea into a pan-European movement? In this session, Damian Boeselager, Co-Founder of Volt Europa and Member of the European Parliament, shares the skills behind building a cross-border movement now including 35'000 members. In conversation with Grit Zwingenberger, One Young World Ambassador and global sustainability leader, you’ll discover how to mobilize people around a shared vision, navigate political systems, and create meaningful change. Whether you're working on peace, climate, or democracy, this session will equip you with practical tools to drive cooperation and create impact - starting with your own network.

This session brings together inspiring young leaders from across the globe who are shaping the future of sustainability in diverse and innovative ways.

Representing different cultures, disciplines, and perspectives, these changemakers work in diverse areas, from climate action to entrepreneurship and circular economies.

Despite their varied paths, they are united by a shared purpose: building a more just, resilient, and sustainable world. Through dynamic conversation, they will explore how collaboration across borders and sectors can amplify impact, overcome systemic barriers, and inspire collective action, with this bold ambition : you joining the coalition !

This panel brings together three visionary founders who are leveraging groundbreaking technology to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. From empowering smallholder farmers in Africa with AI-enabled cameras to detecting wildfires faster than ever before with satellite technology and protecting vulnerable wildlife through community-led conservation, our panelists share a common thread: using innovation for a greater purpose. Learn what inspired their work, how they are turning technology into real-world solutions, and how we can all contribute to creating a more sustainable and equitable future.

As a leading gold producer in the Americas, Aris Mining is committed to demonstrating how responsible mining can drive positive global and local impact. Beyond extracting minerals essential for energy transition and technological innovation, Aris focuses on ensuring that mining is conducted legally, safely, and sustainably, while protecting communities and ecosystems.

This session will highlight inspiring stories from young leaders in Segovia and Marmato, Colombia, who are pioneering projects that integrate mining with social innovation, circular economy, gender equality, cultural identity, and local development. From advancing women’s leadership in mining to promoting circular fashion, sustainable tourism, and youth empowerment, these initiatives show how mining can become a driver of resilient and inclusive communities.

This year, the City of Munich and its partners are inviting all delegates to Paulaner am Nockherberg, a traditional Munich beer hall and longtime home of the Paulaner brewery. The location is famous for its annual strong beer festival, where the Salvator beer is served. Both delegate dinners will take place at this venue, but each time we will highlight different characteristics of the host city.

Enjoy a true taste of Bavaria: fresh pretzels, roast chicken, hearty local specialties, and of course vegetarian and vegan options – all served buffet-style. End the evening on a sweet note with Kaiserschmarrn or Bavarian cream. Those seeking a quieter atmosphere will also have access to a dedicated room.

This night is all about authentic local culture.

Paulaner am Nockherberg
Hochstraße 77
81541 Munich

Hear from Dora Palfi, an innovative education leader and One Young World Ambassador, about the need for universal tech education and how you can play a role in shaping inclusive AI. Dora will share reflections on AI’s risks, especially for young people and marginalised groups, and advocate for teaching foundational skills. Her organisation, imagi labs, is a shining example of scaling impact as a member of the One Young World Community.

Antibiotics have been the silent superheroes of modern medicine for nearly 150 years and have saved millions of lives. But today, their future is under threat. The problem isn’t science, it’s economics. Broken market incentives are threatening the stable supply of this essential medicine. Find out why this is happening and why we need to rally to protect the fragile future of antibiotics.

At Deutsche Bahn, we believe that purpose becomes powerful when it moves people to act. Discover how our delegates turn their One Young World inspiration into tangible change — from bold ideas born at the conference to hands-on projects that ripple across our organization and beyond. Purpose, learning and genuine human connection create momentum — and let inspiration evolve into real-world impact.

In this inspiring conversation, Paul Polman, former Unilever CEO and sustainability champion, joins young entrepreneur Tina Taylor to explore how business can be a force for positive change in the world. Drawing on their leadership in driving sustainable growth, social impact, and ethical innovation, they will discuss the role of companies in addressing global challenges from climate change to inequality. The session will highlight strategies for embedding purpose at the core of business models, building resilient economies, and fostering partnerships that benefit both society and shareholders. Participants will gain insights into how purposeful leadership can shape a better future.

Access to quality education is not merely a fundamental right, it is a cornerstone of child development that must exist within safe, supportive environments. Yet violence remains a critical barrier, with 246 million children experiencing harassment, discrimination, and abuse in and around schools, costing an estimated $11 trillion in lost lifetime earnings globally. This violence increasingly transcends physical spaces into digital realms, creating a dangerous continuum that threatens children’s wellbeing and learning outcomes.

The convergence of education access, digital (including AI) advancement, and learning in safe spaces presents both opportunities and challenges. While technology can expand educational reach, it must be implemented responsibly, with governments establishing evidence-based policies and cross-sectoral collaboration. UNICEF's work on Safe to Learn and on digital education supports governments and education systems, including the private sector and civil society, to create violence-free learning environments, with a vision to leverage technology-driven solutions to empower educators, support student-centred pedagogies, and improve learning outcomes. Rapid technology adoption must be balanced with human-centred skills development—particularly critical thinking, teamwork, empathy, and creativity, ensuring children can navigate an increasingly complex world safely and effectively.

Join Deloitte for a powerful plenary session exploring the intersection of education and responsible technology. Hosted by Deloitte Global Chief People & Purpose Officer, Elizabeth Faber, this session will feature Deloitte One Young World delegates who are leading innovative efforts to expand access to learning and ensure ethical, inclusive applications of AI. Together, they’ll share how technology can be a force for good in shaping the future of education and opportunity.

AI is everywhere – but behind the buzzwords and the fear of “takeovers”, there’s a much more human story unfolding. Join Tanuj Kapilashrami for a candid look at how businesses are really using AI, what this means for the future of work and how you can build the skills and mindset to thrive alongside technology – not be replaced by it. This session dives into the power or curiosity, continuous learning, and the uniquely human qualities that no algorithm can replicate.

Delegates will be able to attend Interactive Stage sessions, SAP Skills Hub session, Workshops, and Action Sessions. Lunch will be provided in this break, as well as networking opportunities.

In a world with ever-increasing energy demands, how can nuclear power provide continuous, carbon-free energy and support a stable, resilient system? What skills are needed globally to meet future demand, and how can leaders contribute to this transformation?

Over one billion people worldwide have a disability, yet structural barriers and ableism mean they remain underrepresented in the platforms and systems that shape their lives. This panel brings together leaders who are creating initiatives and shaping systems designed by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities. Centering self-representation and collaborative allyship, the discussion will explore how lived experience can reshape the systems and frameworks of disability inclusion

As misinformation and the use of AI-generated content increases worldwide, two winners of the 2025 One Young World Journalist of the Year Award, Nilesh Christopher and Leandro Amaya Camacho, discuss how they source and verify information to deliver fact-based news.

This session will showcase the winners of the One Young World Politician of the Year Award 2025, who will discuss how they are fostering inclusion in their respective offices, ensuring underrepresented communities have a voice.

This session explores the importance of ensuring Indigenous autonomy is built within our institutions, and why Indigenous knowledge must be incorporated into these systems. Discussing governance, education and healthcare, this panel coniders the deep-rooted obstacles in achieving this as well as strategies to ensure Indigenous perspectives are represented across institutions.

Hate manifests in subtle ways. How can individuals and organisations respond with empathy, courage, and action to give hate less space and oxygen. Let's explore what belonging truly means and how we can each contribute to a culture where everyone feels seen, valued, and safe. This is not a conversation about identity, it's a call to change the temperature in the room.

How do we communicate and collaborate across deep divides to make a meaningful global impact? Join this session to hear from David Beasley, distinguished humanitarian leader and Former Executive Director of the UN World Food Programme, who draws on his career in public service and international diplomacy to explore the communication skills essential for negotiation, crisis resolution, and coalition-building in today's complex world.

Around the world, millions of children face challenges to accessing quality education - challenges that perpetuate cycles of poverty and limit opportunity. In this panel discussion, Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, leads a conversation with four United Way One Young World delegates who are championing education initiatives in their own communities. Together, they will explore innovative solutions, grassroots efforts, and cross-sector collaborations aimed at ensuring that every child, no matter where they are born, has the chance to learn, grow, and thrive.

In a time of shifting security challenges, disinformation and fragile democracies, the question of what we choose to defend is more relevant than ever. This fireside chat brings together Johannes Müller, Head of Communications at Airbus Defence and Space and seasoned conflict photographer, with David Matei, political podcaster, influencer and young Bundeswehr officer. From documenting the realities of conflict to choosing service in the armed forces, they share personal insights and professional perspectives on how we can protect peace, prosperity and democratic values - and on what should be prevented before it needs defending.

Every day, over 1 million people contract a sexually transmitted infection (WHO). Half of all pregnancies are unintended (UNPF). These numbers are preventable - but only with better sex education.

In many countries, the topic still receives minimal attention. In Germany, for instance, students spend an average of only 20 minutes per year on it in class. The internet age was expected to expand access to reliable information—and indeed, more than 60% of people worldwide use the internet to search for medical information, including 87% of young people (Hopelab). Yet despite this accessibility, most of us still encounter misinformation and fake news. The consequences are seen through rising sexually transmitted diseases. Even in countries with track records of low rates. For example, Germany is experiencing a 40% rise in 18- to 24- year-olds.

It’s time to break taboos and take back control. Join our expert panel to explore how sex education can empower young people, support LGBTQ+ and disabled communities, and put dignity and wellbeing at the centre of learning.

Curious about how a community of employees can drive and champion innovation within your organisation? Hear from a Community Manager at one of the largest UN Agencies in the world, to learn about designing and nurturing a community of innovation that fosters cross collaboration, capacity building, knowledge sharing and encourages experimentation, and get a first-hand account of the challenges and opportunities of catalysing change in an international, mutli-cultural and diverse organisation, at the forefront of the world’s most pressing challenges.

In this session Sir Bill Browder will share his unique insights on the geopolitical challenges and threats facing the continent, from financial corruption and kleptocracy to state-sponsored aggression. Expect an unvarnished discussion on the necessity of robust anti-corruption measures and targeted sanctions to safeguard European democracy and stability. His perspective, forged through direct experience and advocacy for the Magnitsky Act, offers a compelling look at the tools needed to counter those who seek to undermine Europe's security.

In a time of rapidly changing technology, leadership in an AI-driven world has never been more important. Lisa Heneghan, KPMG’s Global Chief Digital Officer, will share practical insights on how leaders can stay grounded in human values while embracing the power of AI to ensure they stay ahead.

Sport has the unique power to unite communities, inspire hope, and create pathways for progress. In this dynamic panel, Olympic champion Mark Tewksbury, Rugby World Cup-winning captain François Pienaar, and former Springbok legend Tendai “The Beast” Mtawarira will share how their experiences on the world stage have translated into leadership off the field. Together, they will explore the role of sport in advancing social cohesion, breaking down barriers, and promoting inclusion and opportunity. The discussion will highlight powerful examples of how athletes can leverage their influence to drive societal change and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Embark with us on a journey of personal growth and resilience, showcasing how changemakers are catalysing innovation to drive lasting change. Explore how to lead with morale ambition in a corporate world and scale breakthrough high-tech innovations for impact.

From recruitment to marketing, from sales to HR, AI is changing everything about the way we do business. In this session Google Cloud's Alex Rutter will discuss how young leaders can get ahead of the curve to ensure they are prepared for the job market of tomorrow, today!

Join us for an inspiring fireside chat with Lionesses star Georgia Stanway! We’ll trace her remarkable journey from Barrow-in-Furness to the elite levels of Manchester City and Bayern Munich. Stanway will offer a candid look at her professional career, the mindset needed to perform in major tournaments like the Euros, and the realities of being a female athlete. Don't miss her insights on the evolution of the Lionesses after their historic success and her vision for the future growth of women's football globally.

The barrier between a brilliant idea and a brilliant execution has crumbled. Generative AI is the ultimate creative force multiplier. In this session, The Brandtech Group will share how GenAI is already lowering the barrier to entry on best-in-class creative storytelling and why this is exciting for you!

One Young World's Politician of the Year Award celebrates three of the world's most promising young politicians who are using their public office to create a tangible, positive impact on young people in their communities and countries. The award will be presented by Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, the Mayor of Cape Town.

Delegates will be able to attend Interactive Stage sessions, SAP Skills Hub session, Workshops, Action Sessions, and networking opportunities.

Discover the critical skills needed to thrive in the future and how they impact all aspects of workforce management. Explore the shift to a dynamic, skills-based approach, redefining talent forecasting, attraction, growth, and retention. Learn about SAP's strategic moves towards a transparent, global skill framework and its impact on continuous learning and employee development.

By 2030, young Africans are expected to represent 42% of the world’s youth and make up 75% of Africa’s population under the age of 35. The power that this potential holds is unlike any other, but maximising this requires more than access to classrooms. Welcoming a panel of visionary leaders, this session explores innovative, inclusive, and future-focused approaches to education, and what is needed to ensure young people have the skills, creativity, and confidence to lead.

This session pulls back the curtain on entrepreneurship - tracing the journey from the first spark of an idea to the challenges of pivoting and sustaining momentum. Through the lens of a founder’s personal story, we’ll explore themes of courage, adaptability, and how activism can shape a blueprint for building a business with purpose. Most importantly, we’ll examine how failure can fuel growth and where the vital support networks for entrepreneurs can be found.

Join Christina Niemelä Ström for an engaging session that marks 25 years of IWAY, IKEA's framework for social responsibility in supply chains. We'll delve into the importance of ethical standards and the positive impacts made possible through IWAY. This interactive session invites you to contribute your perspectives and learn about the sustainable practices that IKEA has developed over decades. Together, we will discuss how fostering social responsibility continues to be at the heart of our operations and the key to building a more positive future.

From the remote villages of Uganda and Madagascar, young entrepreneurs are showing that business success starts with listening to your audience. Ochen Umar Bashir and Karine Rakotoniainasoa share how they use solar-powered smart projectors to show training videos in local languages, boosting incomes, building trust, and growing community skills. Learn how to develop sustainable ventures, tailor content to local needs, and turn innovative video delivery into real impact, even where there’s no internet.

In a world increasingly shaped by the challenges of climate change and resource scarcity, energy optimisation in companies has become a key priority. This panel discusses the crucial interfaces between energy optimisation and education for sustainable development (ESD). It aims to demonstrate how companies can increase their energy efficiency while simultaneously contributing to sustainable development through practice-oriented approaches and innovative educational formats.

Join us in this important discussion and discover how education can serve as a catalyst for change in energy optimisation.

The panel brings together Indigenous changemakers who are leading community-rooted responses to environmental degradation and climate injustice. From restoring sacred lakes with ancestral knowledge to exposing illegal economies and driving youth-led climate action, these leaders demonstrate how Indigenous solutions offer powerful pathways to ecological resilience. It will touch on the role of decolonisation, intergenerational leadership, and Indigenous knowledge systems in shaping global climate action from the ground up

Across Africa, women are driving some of the most powerful shifts in access to healthcare, education, and opportunity. In this session, Vimbai Masiyiwa brings together two visionary female founders, Amina Umuhoza (SAYE Company) and May Asagba (CAIN Educational Foundation) for a conversation exploring how they are designing creative, sustainable models to empower young people and transform communities. The panel will unpack the mindsets, challenges, and opportunities shaping a new generation of female and impact-led ventures.

From recruitment to marketing, fromsales to HR, AI is changing everything about the way we do business. In this session Google Cloud's Alex Rutter will discuss how young leaders can get ahead of the curve to ensure they are prepared for the job market of tomorrow, today!

This session explores the opportunities and responsibilities that come with using and creating technology. Highlighting the need to equip youth with the skills to thrive in the tech sector, panelists discuss how designing must be done with dignity, ensuring that innovation advances equity and safety for all.

This session brings together two athletes from the Refugee Olympic Team, Kasra Mehdipournejad, taekwondo practitioner, and Cindy Ngamba, middleweight boxer.

Through their stories of resilience and perseverance, Cindy and Kasra will share what it means to pursue excellence on the world’s biggest sporting stage while representing millions of displaced people worldwide. Discussing the power of sport to foster belonging and inspire change, they will reflect on how sport can foster belonging, inspire hope, and open new pathways to possibility through determination and endurance.

As tech and entrepreneurship surge across the Global South, how do you choose your next market, and pivot when the rules change? Join the 2025 Entrepreneur of the Year Award winners as they dive into the real challenges of scaling in emerging markets: choosing where to go, navigating local roadblocks, adapting to shifting audiences, and reframing both success and failure as learning tools.

On the second evening at Paulaner am Nockherberg, the focus shifts to celebrating Europe’s diversity and Munich’s international spirit.

Delegates can sample a variety of European flavours at the buffet and choose from an extensive selection of local beverages. The relaxed atmosphere means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re here to mingle, explore new cuisines or unwind in the quiet lounge.

Paulaner am Nockherberg
Hochstraße 77
81541 Munich

Hear from Yousra Abdelmoneim, One Young World Ambassador and Director at PwC, who will set out simple steps to use your position to support refugee communities. Yousra will share how the global crisis deeply affects her personally and professionally, with examples of the support initiatives she has led at PwC to offer refugees mentoring, training, and employment. Answer her call to action for individuals and businesses to actively support displaced communities around the world.

This special session will celebrate the recipients of the 2025 WE Award – Together Against Loneliness, presented in partnership with Pernod Ricard.
The award will recognise five exemplary young leaders who are pioneering solutions under the vital theme, ‘Together Against Loneliness’.
We will honour those actively fostering social connection, nurturing conviviality, and creating inclusive communities around the world.
Attendees will hear the inspiring stories of these winners, whose impactful work demonstrates the profound importance of connect beyond borders.

Making an impact within large organisations is a constant balancing act between ambition and authenticity, conformity and change. For young professionals, leadership often means using your circle of influence wisely, creating progress from within, one conversation and one opportunity at a time. Leadership isn’t a corner office. It’s a decision. This keynote is about trusting yourself to lead from where you stand, even when the system wasn’t designed for you, and learning that real change doesn’t always start at the top.

Join Giselle Gonzales, Founder & CEO of EqualReach, and Gary Shaughnessy, Chair of the Z Zurich Foundation, for a high-energy conversation on how business can do more than just make money—it can transform lives. Discover how EqualReach is bridging economic and digital inclusion for a global network of highly skilled refugee talent, delivering top-tier digital work while driving social impact. Leading organisations around the world are doubling their impact through thoughtful procurement, proving that impact sourcing is not just possible—it is profitable, scalable, and reshaping the way business drives real-world change.

Hear from Ruth Wacuka, survivor leader, Pan-African youth advocate, and One Young World Ambassador, who is fully committed to ending violence against children and advancing justice for the most vulnerable. Drawing from lived experience, Ruth challenges harmful systems such as orphanages and orphanage trafficking, while pushing for legislation and policies that protect children and empower care leavers.

What does it truly mean to build peace, and why is doing so crucial, especially in our current age of chaos? Angela F. Williams, President and CEO of United Way Worldwide, invites One Young World delegates to explore this question through a personal and profound journey through her career as a servant leader, to the quiet courage of her grandfather during segregation in the American South, to the transformative work of United Way. Angela will draw from her own life and from United Way’s work in communities around the globe to help One Young World delegates tap into their spirit as leaders to bring people together—across sectors, borders, and backgrounds—to build a more peaceful and secure world.

In a world of accelerating crises and widening inequalities, it has never been more important to find a way to work effectively across sectors, and crucially, across generations. Whether it is addressing injustice, reimagining the role of business in society, or protecting the planet, we need to find bold solutions that positively disrupt entrenched systems and unlock transformative change.
We stand at a critical juncture – and the choices we make today will shape the future for generations to come. This is our chance to rebuild something better: a fairer, more effective, and truly inclusive system of global cooperation.
This panel session will unite voices across generations, from emerging leaders to seasoned changemakers, to explore how systems thinking, shared leadership, and radical collaboration across generations can help us build a safer, more prosperous and sustainable future.

One Young World’s annual Entrepreneur of the Year Award celebrating three outstanding leaders from the world of business.

This conversation brings together Maoz Inon, Israeli social entrepreneur and peace activist, and Aziz Abu Sarah, Palestinian author, educator, and conflict resolution practitioner, for a rare and courageous dialogue on one of the world’s most protracted conflicts. Drawing on personal experiences of loss and reconciliation, they will explore pathways toward coexistence, mutual understanding, and nonviolent solutions. The discussion will highlight the transformative power of dialogue, grassroots initiatives, and people-to-people engagement in fostering hope amidst division. Their exchange will offer a deeply human perspective, reminding us that peace is possible when empathy, trust, and shared humanity take centre stage.

David Beasley and Lord Michael Hastings will engage in a fireside chat exploring the critical link between food security and lasting peace. They will highlight how hunger will continue to fuel instability, conflict, and displacement, while sustainable access to food will foster resilience, dignity, and hope. Beasley will draw on his leadership experience at the World Food Programme, illustrating how global cooperation will be essential in addressing urgent needs. Hastings will emphasise ethical leadership and systemic change to tackle root causes of inequality. Together, they will present food security as both a humanitarian imperative and a cornerstone for sustainable peace.

Join Dimitri de Vreeze, CEO dsm-firmenich, for a thought-provoking plenary session on the power of connection in a divided world. Although we are more connected than ever, genuine human connection seems increasingly difficult. This session explores how dsm-firmenich fosters meaningful dialogue and breakthrough innovation by rejecting simplistic us-versus-them thinking. It’s a call for fierce debate and mutual respect – because bridging differences, working together, and standing side-by-side are the only way forward to shape the future.

One Young World’s annual Journalist of the Year Award honours three of the most respected young journalists from around the world, whose courage and commitment to their profession have identified them as outstanding leaders in their field. The award will be presented by legendary South African journalist Ashraf Garder.

Delegates will be able to attend Interactive Stage sessions, SAP Skills Hub session, Workshops, and Action Sessions. Lunch will be provided in this break, as well as networking opportunities.

In today’s hyper-connected yet divided world, genuine human connection has never mattered more. As loneliness and social isolation rise globally, the need to foster inclusion, belonging, and togetherness is more important than ever.

This session celebrates the recipients of The WE Award - Together Against Loneliness, created in partnership with One Young World. These inspiring young leaders are redefining what it means to bring people together, from building inclusive community spaces to promoting authentic moment of sharing and a spirit of conviviality.

Join this session to hear their powerful stories and discover how they are strengthening and connecting beyond borders.

Over a decade of leading transformation, Masa Schmidt (Head of Marketing Germany at SAP) has learned that true leadership is less about control and more about connection. In this candid and inspiring session, she shares ten lessons that have shaped her journey — from why clarity is kind and consistency is key, to how empathy can solve almost anything. With humor, honesty, and humility, Masa explores what it really takes to lead through change, build trust, and create cultures where people — and ideas — can thrive.

As we mark the 25th anniversary of the UN’s Women, Peace and Security agenda, the landscape of conflict is more widespread than most of us have experienced in our lifetimes. Despite some progress, the specific needs of women and girls in conflict-affected contexts too often remain overlooked. Even as women endure the frontlines, their voices continue to be sidelined in decision making processes that shape the wider peace and security agenda.

Amid the erosion of women’s rights in many regions, this session will examine how to bring the Women, Peace and Security agenda back to the forefront of today’s shifting security landscape.

Spotlighting Reckitt's SDG6 Lead2030 winners, this session will explore social entrepreneurship, technology and innovation in driving access to clean water and sanitation.

Journalists get hundreds of pitches a day, so how do you make yours one they can’t ignore? Join this session to hear from BBC journalists how you can hook a newsroom in under 30 seconds. Discover what makes a pitch irresistible, what is needed to turn a worthy story into a newsworthy headline, and how to build the resilience needed to handle inevitable rejection.

In the heart of Rangpur, Bangladesh, Karupannya is redefining supplier collaboration through a powerful blend of sustainability, social impact, and youth empowerment. Their Young Worker Program is more than employment—it's a movement that uplifts vulnerable communities by engaging young women and ethnic minorities in eco-friendly rug and handicraft production.
Through innovative partnerships with global brands like IKEA, Karupannya transforms textile waste into high-value products, while creating dignified livelihoods for thousands. This session explores how supplier collaboration can drive circular economy practices, empower the next generation of artisans, and elevate living standards—proving that business can be a force for good.

Join us to discover how Karupannya’s model inspires a future where supply chains are inclusive, sustainable, and deeply human.

Intellectual property rights have a powerful role in driving innovation. But so does free competition. If those monopoly rights, like patents, are not well balanced by competition, they hurt us more than they help us. We'll explore that balance using medicines as an example.

Following on from their conversation on the Presentation Stage, this session welcomes Palestinian peacebuilder Aziz Abu Sarah and Israeli peace entrepreneur Maoz Inon. Joined by Eiqan Ahmad Shams, a young leader serving as Advisor to the Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the Holy Land, they will discuss their collective experiences of grief and loss, and how to channel this into prioritising peacebuilding. Emphasising the vital role of interfaith dialogue, Aziz, Maoz and Eiqan will explore what it takes to move from division toward reconciliation.

A practical, people-first session on how young social innovators can grow steadily without burning budget or capacity. We focus on values-aligned partners, small pilot agreements, and community trust to create traction that lasts. Delegates complete a simple Partner Pilot Brief and a Capacity Map so their growth plan matches their real time, team, and resources.

This panel explored how young people can channel their passion for change into tangible political impact. Whether through diplomacy, activism or holding office, this session discusses the different pathways available to influence policy-making, and how to navigate them effectively.

Across the world, women are redefining leadership in the pursuit of more equitable and representative systems.

This session spotlights individuals with lived experience who are confronting the structures that have historically excluded women’s voices, and who are building intersectional systems from the ground up. Join this conversation to hear from leaders who are ensuring that those directly affected by decisions are present in the rooms where those decisions are made.

Hear from a panel of your peers, outstanding One Young World Ambassadors who attended past Summits and have used the Community to accelerate their own impact and leadership. This session will explore how you can use the exclusive opportunities available to the network and the expertise of your fellow young leaders to create transformative positive change. Learn from their experiences, and ask them directly how to make the most of your lifetime membership of the One Young World Community.

Hear from Hauwa Ojeifo, globally recognised champion of mental wellbeing and women’s rights, and proud One Young World Ambassador. She will share how she is delivering her mission, to get people with mental health conditions and disabilities into decision-making rooms…ALL decision-making rooms.

The session demonstrates how financial inclusion through entrepreneurship education contributes to developing young people with an entrepreneurial mindset, action, and intent, showcasing Pan-African delivery, strategic implementation, shared value, and transformative impact.

The Summit concludes at BMW Welt, one of Bavaria’s most celebrated landmarks and a symbol of innovation. Hosted by BMW Group, the Closing Ceremony will bring together reflection, celebration, and a look ahead.

We will look back on the highlights of the Summit and commit our pledges for the future in the Ribbon Ceremony. Finally, the baton will be handed over from Munich to Cape Town, Host City of the One Young World Summit 2026.

After dinner, we will bring the Summit to a close with a big party, celebrating with music, drinks and unforgettable memories.

• 18:30 Admission BMW Welt
• 19:00 Welcome at Plaza
• 19:15 Welcome Words from moderator Flo Akinbiyi, Ilka Horstmeier, Kate & David
• Summit recap & reflections
• Ribbon Ceremony
• Baton handover to Cape Town
• 20:20 Dinner
• 21:45 Live performance by local artist
• Followed by party with DJ and drinks