South Africa Hosts Y20 Pre-Summit in Pretoria Ahead of G20 Sherpa Meetings
The event, held on June 18, marked a critical step toward shaping policy recommendations that will be presented by the 14 official G20 Engagement Groups during the upcoming Sherpa meeting on June 26.
As part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency, the country hosted the Y20 Pre-Summit at the Innovation Hub in Pretoria, drawing youth delegates and stakeholders from around the world to negotiate the zero draft of the Y20 declaration. The event, held on June 18, marked a critical step toward shaping policy recommendations that will be presented by the 14 official G20 Engagement Groups during the upcoming Sherpa meeting on June 26.
South Africa’s G20 Sous-Sherpa, Ambassador Xolisa Mabhongo, participated in the Pre-Summit and emphasized the pivotal role of the Youth20 (Y20) in the broader G20 process. Recognizing the Y20 as the oldest G20 Engagement Group, established in 2010, Ambassador Mabhongo called for the forum to be a catalyst for meaningful, sustainable change across all sectors of society — from communities and places of worship to government and media.
Delivering the keynote address was Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, former Chairperson of the African Union Commission and current Minister, who encouraged African youth to harness the power of education and skills development, calling them the “fastest equaliser.” Her remarks tackled key issues including inequality, youth and women empowerment, mineral beneficiation, and the sustainable development of Africa’s ocean economy — all in line with the priorities of South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
The event also featured messages of support from other G20 engagement groups, including Business20 (B20), Women20 (W20), and Civil Society20 (C20), reinforcing a united vision for inclusive development and global cooperation led by the next generation.
