Iesha Baldwin, VP of Membership for UNA-ATL, in New York City for UNGA
By Iesha Baldwin, Vice President of Membership
Last month in New York City, I had the privilege of attending the Unstoppable Africa event convened by the African Union and the UN Global Compact as part of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Representing Spelman College as Sustainability Lead and serving on the Board of the United Nations Association of Atlanta, I was inspired by the scale, ambition, and collaboration happening to advance sustainable development across the African continent and within the diaspora.
The event brought together leaders, innovators, and changemakers from every sector, including government, business, civil society, and academia, to discuss strategies for sustainable economic growth, climate action, and social development. What struck me most was the power of collective action and how partnerships rooted in shared purpose can accelerate impact and create opportunities for communities across Africa and beyond.
For those of us in the African diaspora, events like these are a reminder of our critical role in shaping sustainable futures. From education and workforce development to climate action and entrepreneurship, there are countless ways we can contribute, whether by mentoring, investing, volunteering, or advocating for policies that support equitable growth.
At Spelman College, we are already seeing the impact of this work through initiatives that connect students to green infrastructure careers, sustainability projects, and international partnerships. My experience in New York City reinforced that our local efforts are part of a global movement, and that the African diaspora has a unique voice and responsibility in advancing these goals.
I encourage anyone passionate about sustainability to get involved, whether through professional networks, local projects, or global initiatives. Together, we can ensure that sustainable development is not just a goal but a shared reality for communities across the African diaspora and the world.
If you are passionate about sustainable development, consider becoming a member of the United Nations Association of Atlanta. We host events that align with UN principles, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing meaningful ways to get involved, connect with like-minded changemakers, and take action for a more sustainable world.
Last month in New York City, I had the privilege of attending the Unstoppable Africa event convened by the African Union and the UN Global Compact as part of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Representing Spelman College as Sustainability Lead and serving on the Board of the United Nations Association of Atlanta, I was inspired by the scale, ambition, and collaboration happening to advance sustainable development across the African continent and within the diaspora.
The event brought together leaders, innovators, and changemakers from every sector, including government, business, civil society, and academia, to discuss strategies for sustainable economic growth, climate action, and social development. What struck me most was the power of collective action and how partnerships rooted in shared purpose can accelerate impact and create opportunities for communities across Africa and beyond.
For those of us in the African diaspora, events like these are a reminder of our critical role in shaping sustainable futures. From education and workforce development to climate action and entrepreneurship, there are countless ways we can contribute, whether by mentoring, investing, volunteering, or advocating for policies that support equitable growth.
At Spelman College, we are already seeing the impact of this work through initiatives that connect students to green infrastructure careers, sustainability projects, and international partnerships. My experience in New York City reinforced that our local efforts are part of a global movement, and that the African diaspora has a unique voice and responsibility in advancing these goals.
I encourage anyone passionate about sustainability to get involved, whether through professional networks, local projects, or global initiatives. Together, we can ensure that sustainable development is not just a goal but a shared reality for communities across the African diaspora and the world.
If you are passionate about sustainable development, consider becoming a member of the United Nations Association of Atlanta. We host events that align with UN principles, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), providing meaningful ways to get involved, connect with like-minded changemakers, and take action for a more sustainable world.
