Youth Summit Connects Innovators to Shape a Livable Planet

Youth-Led Innovation: Paving the Way for a Livable Planet

The 12th World Bank Group Youth Summit marked a significant milestone in reimagining development with youth at the forefront. Under the theme "New Horizons: Youth-Led Innovation for a Livable Planet," this year's Summit demonstrated the power of possibility, urgency, and vision. "This isn't just a moment on our calendar. It's a movement—built on possibility, urgency, and vision," emphasized Raaga Akkineni, Youth Summit Manager.

The Summit's focus on three core sub-themes—Digital Transformation & Data, Food Security & Green Agriculture, and Creative Industries—underscored the importance of equity, especially among underserved populations and youth in Fragile, Conflict, and Violence contexts. Cross-sectoral partnerships were forged to scale up youth-led innovation, driving inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Digital Transformation & Data explored the potential of AI and big data in fueling economic growth and creating inclusive job markets. Food Security & Green Agriculture showcased cutting-edge tools like IoT, digital farming, and carbon markets to boost resilience. Creative Industries elevated the role of art, media, and fashion in job creation, sustainability, and cultural preservation.

Beyond traditional networking, this year's sessions facilitated a two-way dialogue between youth and institutions. Delegates consulted directly with teams shaping the Bank's youth engagement agenda, while IFC investment officers shared insights on backing youth-led entrepreneurship and scalable solutions across emerging markets.

Youth Voices, Global Impact

"The Youth Summit was an incredible opportunity to meet driven individuals making an impact in their communities and wanting to build a more connected, compassionate, and fair world," said Patricio Ortiz, Youth Summit 2025 Delegate. "I've stayed in touch with the friends (even possible future colleagues & collaborators!) I've made at the summit. And I'm so excited to see what the world holds for each of us, and—hopefully—the meaningful change we'll create in return."

From Innovation Labs to Networking Sessions, the Summit provided youth direct access to global experts and each other. The Pitch Competition showcased scalable youth-led innovations across agriculture, fintech, and creative industries, with winners receiving mentorship from IFC Investment Officers.

A Call to Action

WBG leadership echoed the call to drive and shape the global development agenda: "Never stop asking hard questions. Your perspective is so powerful—use it. Don't hesitate to challenge assumptions or question the status quo," added Anna Bjerde, World Bank Managing Director of Operations.

The 2025 Youth Summit proved that youth are already building the path forward—from carbon-neutral farms to AI-powered job tools, from poetry to pitch decks. With bold ideas, resilient leadership, and new cross-sector alliances, the Youth Summit is redefining what development looks like.

As the World Bank continues its mission, these voices will remain front and center—stakeholders and co-creators of a more livable, inclusive, and sustainable world.

Stay Connected

✍️ By World Bank Group Youth Summit Steering Committee
📺 Watch the replays of the 2025 World Bank Group Youth Summit: http://wrld.bg/hYQL50WEWcP
✔️ Follow the Youth Summit Facebook group: http://wrld.bg/HgRm50WEWiM