One Young World Summit Puts Spotlight on Northern Ireland as a World Class Events Destination

From October 2-5 the ICC Belfast will host over 2,200 young people from more than 190 countries for four days of knowledge-sharing and networking designed to equip them to become future leaders.

 

Delegates at the global summit will hear from influential political, business and humanitarian leaders such as former President of Ireland Mary Robinson, Sir Bob Geldof, footballer Didier Drogba.

 

The summit has also been recognised as part of the official functions to mark the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement.

 

Visitors will also have the chance to immerse themselves in Northern Ireland’s culturally vibrant capital city with a range of social events set to take place throughout the week.

 

The event provides a global platform to showcase Northern Ireland as a vibrant, inclusive and innovative international conference, events and tourism destination. 

 

Jayne Brady, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, said: “The One Young World Summit represents a fantastic opportunity not only to showcase Northern Ireland as a world class conference destination capable of hosting globally significant events, but also to promote Northern Ireland as an inspiring place to visit, do business, study and invest on our path for a thriving, inclusive, sustainable economy.

 

“With over 2,000 future leaders coming to Belfast as part of the Summit to discuss solutions to some of the key issues facing the world, the young delegates, including those from Northern Ireland, have the chance to be inspired to use their voice and develop the skills to become leaders and role models for future generations, striving for equality, inclusion, and representation for individuals today and safeguarding our people, planet, and prosperity for tomorrow.”

 

Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Ryan Murphy said; “As a global, resurgent city with a story like no other, Belfast is excited to host this exciting event and we are looking forward to welcoming exceptional young people, activists and business leaders from every corner of the world to this year’s One Young World Summit.

 

“With 43% of our own population aged under 30, we have an emerging generation of amazing young people who are driving positive social change for Belfast and beyond.

 

“Many of them will be attending events and conversations throughout the week – learning from their peers, being inspired to use their voice and developing the skills to become leaders and role models for future generations. 

 

“We also look forward to showcasing our strengths as a city and extending a warm welcome to all the delegates.”

 

Tourism NI Director of Events Aine Kearney said “The One Young World Summit provides a genuine opportunity to present Northern Ireland to a global audience”.

 

“The One Young World Summit a once-in-a-lifetime chance to showcase the vibrancy, beauty and the giant spirit of Northern Ireland to a gathering of international visitors and to inspire return visits and future business opportunities.

 

“Northern Ireland’s reputation in the global meetings and events marketplace is growing. Business events and conferences generate crucial mid-week, year-round demand for our venues, hotels and hospitality sector and Tourism NI is providing support to help attract these events. 

 

“International visitor numbers are growing again, with strong demand from markets including USA, GB and Europe. We know the influential young people from around the world who are in Belfast for the summit will take positive stories about Northern Ireland home with them.”

 

Previous cities to host this annual summit include Johannesburg, London, Manchester, Munich and Pittsburgh. 

 

Photo caption:

 

Pictured at the opening ceremony at the SSE Arena, Belfast are l-r, Aine Kearney, Tourism NI Director of Events, Jayne Brady, Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service and Lord Mayor of Belfast Councillor Ryan Murphy.