Youth for the SDGs Journal – Introduction
At the core of global change are often the simplest beginnings—a conversation, a shared vision, a spark. One such spark was ignited in December 2023 at the COP28 Climate Conference in Dubai, where I met Emilie McGlone, Director of Peace Boat US. We immediately connected over our mutual commitment to ocean education, sustainability, and empowering the next generation of changemakers.
That initial meeting led to our first collaboration just a few months later. On June 16, 2024, I was invited to board the Peace Boat while it was docked in New York City for the United Nations World Oceans Day celebration. During the event, we proudly launched the “Hidden Wonders Revealed” youth art exhibit onboard, highlighting incredible student artwork from our Science Without Borders® Challenge that celebrates the beauty and importance of ocean life.
That small gesture of partnership turned into something much larger. As our conversations continued, Emilie and I explored ways to expand our collaboration through Peace Boat US’s Youth for the SDGs program. This transformative experience brings together young leaders from around the world to focus on sustainability, ocean literacy, and global citizenship. Endorsed by the IOC-UNESCO as a contribution to the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development, the program offered a powerful platform for youth engagement. With my deep ties to Jamaica, we discussed the exciting possibility of Peace Boat’s MY Pacific World stopping at a Jamaican port as part of its 120th voyage. And just like that, the Caribbean and Latin American journey took shape.
In July 2025, that vision became reality. Together, we co-organized a powerful new chapter of the Youth for the SDGs program in Jamaica, which included co-hosting the Blue Economy Forum on the Peace Boat’s MY Pacific World. This dynamic event brought together youth leaders, government officials, scientists, and community organizations to discuss sustainable ocean economies and climate solutions. From July 2 to 20, thirteen young leaders from Colombia, Jamaica, Kenya, the Marianas Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, Turks and Caicos, the United States, and others with roots in Latin America set sail from Jamaica to Panama, Costa Rica, and Mexico aboard the Peace Boat.
In this blog series, I’ll share highlights from the initial part of the voyage—from our first days in Discovery Bay, Jamaica, to international forums at sea, to stepping back on land in Panama with renewed purpose.
What started as a chance meeting on the other side of the world has evolved into a meaningful partnership grounded in shared values and a commitment to youth empowerment. I invite you to follow along as we retrace this powerful voyage anchored in purpose, propelled by community, and guided by the promise of a more sustainable future.
ABOUT PEACE BOAT US
Peace Boat US is a nonprofit organization based at the United Nations Plaza in New York City. As the primary partner of Japan-based Peace Boat, the organization was founded in 2006 to promote a culture of peace, sustainability, and international cooperation.
Peace Boat US creates opportunities for cross-cultural learning, advocacy, and cooperation by connecting people across borders through global voyages and educational programs.
A committed campaigner for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Peace Boat US focuses on four key areas: ocean conservation, climate action, youth engagement, and disarmament. Through education, advocacy, and strategic partnerships, the organization works to advance progress in these critical areas of global concern.
