Introduction about the event
The Universal Youth Leadership Summit (UYLS) 2024, held from November 21st to 24th, 2024, in Malaysia, was a transformative experience that brought together young leaders from across the globe to discuss and address pressing issues such as sustainable education, youth employability, and social equity and inclusion. As a fully funded delegate, I had the privilege of participating in this enriching event, which not only provided a platform for learning and networking but also fostered a spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange. This report outlines my observations and reflections on the activities and sessions conducted over the four-day summit.
Day 1: Arrival and Summit Beginnings
The first day began with delegates arriving at the hotel, followed by a smooth registration process and welcoming speeches by the organizers, who highlighted the importance of youth leadership in fostering inclusivity and sustainable development.
An ice-breaking session followed, starting with dancing to the “Apatu Korea song”, which was fun and helped create a lively atmosphere. We then played a game where everyone closed their eyes and made a pose. If team members had the same pose when we opened our eyes, it meant we had a connection, which helped build trust and rapport.
Next, we had a “Workshop Session” where each group had to make the longest paper chain possible. In the first round, we used both hands, but in the second round, the challenge increased as we could only use one hand. This activity requires teamwork, creativity, and coordination, and it was a lot of fun.
After the official events, our group stayed back to create a team video about “Malaysian food”, showcasing the country’s diverse cuisine. It was a great bonding experience, and the video turned out to be a creative representation of our teamwork and spirit.
Day 1 - Committees and delegates of UYLS Malaysia in official maroon and green shirts.
Day 2: Insightful Discussions and Team Building
The second day of the summit began with breakfast, followed by opening remarks and keynote speeches that set the tone for the day’s activities. The morning panel session delved deeper into the themes of social equality, mental health, and sustainable education. Industry leaders shared their perspectives on the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to education, which helps preserve cultural traditions while aligning with international standards.
The afternoon was dedicated to team-building activities at a nearby park, which were both challenging and fun. Each team was given a map of the park and tasked with finding hidden colored papers within a time limit. Each paper had an alphabet, and the teams had to arrange the letters to form a correct word. This activity required not only teamwork but also strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Although our group only managed to complete two challenges, the experience brought us closer together and highlighted the importance of collaboration.
Another exciting activity involved filling a water bottle by holding and making long connections. The first team member poured the water, and the rest had to ensure it didn’t spill as it passed through each member’s hands to finally fill the bottle. This activity tested our coordination and communication skills, and despite the challenges, it was incredibly fun and rewarding.
After returning from the park, we had a lunch break, followed by the “Certificate Ceremony”, where every delegate received a certificate of participation in the Universal Youth Leadership Summit 2024. This was a proud moment for all of us, as it recognized our efforts and contributions throughout the summit. The day concluded with more team-building activities, further strengthening the bonds among delegates.
Day 2 - Committees and Delegates of UYLS Malaysia after the certificate ceremony.
Day 3: Celebrating Diversity and Achievement
The third day of the summit was a celebration of cultural diversity and achievement. The day began with delegates' discussions and presentations, where each group shared their insights and solutions on topics such as sustainable education, youth employability, and social equity. These discussions were insightful and highlighted the diverse perspectives of the delegates.
The highlight of the day was the “Cultural Activities”, which included dancing and singing performances by delegates from around the world. This was my favorite part of the event, as it showcased the rich cultural heritage of each country and created a sense of unity and shared joy. We also took pictures with each other and exchanged small gifts from our countries, which was a beautiful way to celebrate our diversity and build lasting connections.
The day continued with the “Award Ceremony”, where outstanding delegates were recognized for their contributions and achievements. It was a moment of great pride and joy for our group, Group 1, as we were awarded the “Best Group Award”. This achievement was a testament to our teamwork, dedication, and collaborative spirit throughout the summit. It was such a memorable moment that will never be forgotten, and we are deeply appreciative of this recognition.
The final activity of the day was a “City tour”, where we visited the iconic “KLCC Twin Tower” with all the delegates. This was a wonderful opportunity to explore the city and bond with fellow participants in a more relaxed setting. The tour was a perfect way to end the day, filled with laughter, shared experiences, and unforgettable memories.
Day 3 - A group photo of committees and delegates UYLS Malaysia in traditional attire.
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