On March 28, 2025, Beijing, a high-level roundtable titled “A Sustainable Future: Social Business, Youth, and a World of Three Zeros” was held as part of Professor Muhammad Yunus’s official state visit to China. The forum marks a milestone in the 50th anniversary of China-Bangladesh diplomatic relations, bringing together government leaders, scholars, and young changemakers from both nations.

Alice Ho, Chief Youth Officer of the Global Alliance of Universities on Climate (GAUC), was invited to deliver a keynote speech alongside Professor Yunus, the Foreign Minister and Energy Minister of Bangladesh, and leading Chinese experts.

“A world of three zeros is not a distant dream—it is a future my generation is actively building.” Alice opened her remarks by emphasizing the urgency of youth leadership in addressing climate change, poverty, and unemployment. “We are not just participants in climate talks—we are contributors and innovators.”

She shared key milestones led by GAUC’s youth network, including the Climate X’ Campaign, the Global Youth Climate Week, and GAUC youth delegation to UNFCCC COP.

“We are turning knowledge into real impact, empowering young people to transform research into solutions.” Alice also spotlighted the rise of youth-led social enterprises, which creatively address both environmental and social issues. “When youth are seen not just as job seekers but as creators and problem solvers, the Three Zeros become possible.”

Alice calling for building “Three Zeros World”

In terms of global cooperation, she emphasized the importance of China-Bangladesh youth collaboration. “Young people from China and Bangladesh are working together in digital inclusion and social innovation, injecting fresh momentum into the development of the Global South.”

Alice closed with a call to action: “Clean air, dignified livelihoods, and hope for the future should be the birthright of every person. When we trust, invest in, and walk alongside young people, the world of three zeros becomes not only possible—but inevitable.” This inspiring exchange of ideas and aspirations between Chinese and Bangladeshi youth leaders sends a clear message: youth are not waiting for the future—they are already building it.

Reporter: Alice HO

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