GLOBAL GOALS TO LOCAL ACTION: Youth Powering the SDGs In Ghana

By: Agnes Etuah

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“The workshop was a powerful testament to the belief that young people are not just the future; they are the present.”

Agnes Etuah recently attended the Youth SDGs Accelerator Workshop, an inspiring experience that strengthened her commitment to empowering young people and translating the Global Goals into meaningful local action in Ghana. Read Agnes' personal reflection statement below:

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I am a driven advocate and a cohort 3 fellow of Women Changemakers for Education. I am also the founder of Buoyant Youth Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering young people through education, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Youth SDGs Accelerator workshop, a pivotal initiative organized by the Commonwealth Youth Council and ABAN Center for Global Policy.

The workshop took place on 28th August, 2025 at the British Council in Ghana.

The workshop was a powerful testament to the belief that young people are not just the future; we are the present. This isn’t merely a phrase for me; it’s a foundational mindset that demands active involvement and purpose-driven action right now. The event brought this philosophy to life, allowing me to interact with policymakers and learn from experienced stakeholders on how to translate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into meaningful local actions in Ghana.

The energy at the workshop was infectious, igniting a renewed sense of purpose in me. I am poised to carry this momentum forward in my work with the Buoyant Youth Foundation. The experience reinforced my conviction that through collective effort and practical application, I can make a significant, tangible difference in my community and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable Ghana.

Highlights of the Experience:

• Youth as Agents of Change: The workshop underscored the critical role of young people as current drivers of change, not just future leaders.

  
  

• Practical Application: It provided a roadmap for adapting global goals into impactful local initiatives tailored to Ghana's specific needs.

  
  

• Renewed Commitment: The event reinforced my dedication to my mission of youth empowerment through the Buoyant Youth Foundation.

  
  

• Networking: Opportunities to engage with policymakers and experienced stakeholders highlighted the importance of collaborative action in achieving the SDGs.

As I look ahead, I'm filled with optimism and determination. The Youth SDGs Accelerator workshop has not only equipped me with the knowledge and tools to drive meaningful change but has also reignited my passion for empowering young people. I'm committed to harnessing the energy and momentum from this experience to propel the Buoyant Youth Foundation's mission forward, fostering a brighter future for Ghana's youth and contributing to the realization of the SDGs. Together, let's turn global goals into local impact!