Don’t miss highlights from Day 1:

SDG Global Festival of Action — Day 1 highlights
UN SDG Action Awards Winners announced

Thank you again for joining us at the SDG Global Festival of Action. We would also love to hear your feedback, make sure to take our Festival survey!

SDG Global Festival of Action — Day 2 highlights

On the second day of the SDG Global Festival of Action, we explored the systems change needed to make huge leaps forward for people and the planet with debates and discussions on some of the most urgent challenges we are facing today — from waste and pollution to inequalities; from urbanization to the climate crisis — and heard some of the solutions needed to solve these challenges. Government and private sector leaders, experts, activists, innovators, creatives gathered to exchange views on how to mobilize action across countries, industries and generations, so we recover better after the pandemic.

 — @SDGaction

 — @SDGaction

 — @UlrikaModeer

Here are 5 key discussions to catch up on for the day:

1. Think big, think systems: The change we need to supercharge SDG progress

Global issues are complex and interconnected. What are the systems we need to fundamentally change to tackle these issues? What is required to make the systemic change that reaches every person around the globe? The panel explored the systems shift needed to build more equitable and sustainable societies, and the entry points to create such shifts.

>> Watch Now

 — @uclg_org

2. Digital Tech and Innovation: Bridging the technology divide

The discussion in this session highlighted that lockdowns during the pandemic have again demonstrated the power and potential of technology. Rapid digital adoption not only facilitates governments, businesses, and schools to operate amidst COVID-19, but also helps people stay connected when they are apart. Yet 3.5 billion people still do not have internet access today. How can we close the gaps between the digital “haves” and “have-nots”? How can we make technology more inclusive and accessible so that no one is left behind? Various experts came together in this panel to discuss the role of technology in addressing poverty and inequality.

>> Watch Now

 — @mehartweets

 — @mehartweets

 — @tetsuoundp

3. Gender equality: A race we must win by 2030

The clock is ticking for us to take action for gender equality. How has COVID-19 stalled or reverse our progress so far? How quickly or slowly are countries moving towards gender equality? How can we speed up the pace of change to make sure we meet Sustainable Development Goal 5 Gender Equality by 2030? In this panel, experts from Africa, Asia, and Latin America gathered to discuss five key issues affecting the rates of progress, based on data from 129 countries: access to contraception, girls’ completion of secondary school, women in leadership, laws protecting workplace equality, and perceptions of safety.

>> Watch Now

 — @Equal2030

 — @PaulaTrujilloGo

 — @Equal2030

4. Reimagining our common future: Cities leading on SDG action

By 2050 more than two-thirds of the world’s population will live in cities. Cities play a key role in achieving a sustainable future. How can we create local changes that contribute to the global advancement of the SDGs? What roles do local governments play in driving such changes? Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator, and Mayors from three continents exchanged learnings and reflections on creating the fundamental changes needed to make our cities more resilient and sustainable.

>> Watch Now

 — @oidpoidp

 — @uclg_org

 — @literoflight

5. Ready, set…Let’s make a historic leap forward for the SDGs

The global pandemic is an urgent call and opportunity for us to rethink our behavior and values, and to design new systems that work for people and the planet. How can we rebuild the post-COVID19 world as envisioned by the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs? How can we make that leap forward, and how can we know that we have made it? In this final session before the Closing Plenary, leaders from a diversity of background shared their views on how each of us could turn it around at this critical moment of history.

>> Watch Now

 — @karinagould

 — @rajeshmirchand

 — @exanimotina

3 more conversations that inspire you to take action

In addition to discussions and debates, Day 2 of the Festival also featured conversations with changemakers who shared stories of what motivated them to take action, and how we could learn from them to create change in our own community. The following are three of our favorites:

A Turning Point Dialogue: In Conversation with Rob Bilott

 — @SDGaction

A Turning Point Dialogue: In Conversation with Trisha Shetty

 — @SDGaction

A Turning Point Dialogue: In Conversation with Sanda Ojiambo

 — @SandaOjiambo

It’s time to #TurnItAround, together

As we wrapped up the Festival, we took the opportunity to reflect on how we could keep up the momentum generated during the two exciting days, to make sure that 2021 becomes a true turning point for people and the planet. “If we fail to make 2021 a turning point, it’ll be too late. The time really is now,” said Marina Ponti, Director of the UN SDG Action Campaign, in her closing remarks, “I urge you: Be positive. Be proactive. Above all, be the change.”

 — @SDGaction

 — @SDGaction

“Together we are stronger. This is just the beginning.” Are you ready to #TurnItAround with us?

It’s YOUR turn to #TurnItAround

Share with us how the SDG Global Festival of Action has inspired you to act for the SDGs! We’d love to hear from you on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #TurnItAround!

By Amy Au

Mobilizing, inspiring, and connecting individuals around the globe to #TurnItAround for people and planet

Bonn, Germany, 25 March — The 2020 SDG Action Awards Ceremony, which took place on 25 March as a part of the fifth SDG Global Festival of Action, highlighted nine inspiring finalist initiatives, of which three were announced as winners during the live ceremony.

The Awards, a signature programme of the UN SDG Action Campaign, seeks to highlight initiatives which Mobilize, Inspire and Connect, three categories that can help spur citizen engagement and affect positive change. Marina Ponti, Global Director of the UN SDG Action Campaign, noted in her welcoming speech that not even the current health crisis could hold these initiatives back. “They show how they’ve turned things around using creativity, data, communication and accountability. And — more importantly — through pride, passion and perseverance.”

The Awards recognize individuals and organizations who take action while building coalitions across communities, as well as those who shift behaviours and policies towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and those who increase progress on the Goals whilst strengthening dialogue and trust between people and institutions at all levels.

The open call for submission received over 2,000 initiatives submitted to the three application categories from 140+ countries. Leading up to the live ceremony, 21 judges from across sectors and countries reviewed the entries submitted, assessing overall impact and approach, and gauging the potential for the initiatives to be replicated and scaled up.

Lysa John, Secretary General of CIVICUS, presented the award in the Mobilize category to The Sexual Harassment Project represented by Funmi Ayeni. By targeting policy makers and mobilizing students, the project empowers students — the most vulnerable group impacted by campus sexual harassment in Nigeria — to take action. Having lobbied legislators to push a sexual harassment bill, the initiative has the potential for broader, sustainable and long-lasting impact.

Immersive Production Specialist and MY World 360° Creator, Charles Muchiri presented the Inspire Award to Signs TV, an initiative which advocates for inclusive communication while building cultural bridges and removing barriers. Not only is Signs TV on the forefront of supplying sign interpretation, but 60% of their staff consists of persons with disabilities, which ensures that everything they do is inclusive.

Ambassador Giorgio Marrapodi, Director General for Development and Cooperation with Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, handed out the Connect award to Dune Ives of NextWave Plastics. By creating the first ever global network targeting multinational supply chains to keep plastic out of the ocean, the initiative’s members have prevented1,300+ metric tons of plastic from entering the ocean in just two years.

Award finalists were also given special attention, having demonstrated their innovative approach to scale up action for the Sustainable Development Goals.

• El Avispero — a digital platform that has brought 2 million people together through a digital citizen action and crowdsourcing platform, to build a more peaceful, active, diverse and sustainable Colombia
• From Syria, EntrePioneers 2030 connects and mentor young Syrians in their home country and abroad to rebuild better
• Rap2Rep, harnesses the power of music as a tool for social change in Liberia
• Targeting SDG5, Equal Measures 2030 provides data and evidence in connecting feminist organizations to end systematic discrimination against women and girls
• Organized by the Italian Alliance for Sustainable Development (ASviS), The Sustainable Development Festival brings together millions of people to connect, discuss and contribute to the Goals
• The Fight Forever Chemicals Campaign converges an impact campaign with a narrative feature film to unveil an unseen health crisis and aims to enact policy change and mobilize the conscious consumer

Efforts that were driven by — or related to — UN agencies were not eligible to compete for the Awards but were given Honourable mentions. They included: Youth Climate Report, Samsung Global Goals App, Change the Sequence and Be The One Campaign. The Be The One Campaign also delivered a feature performance by IZA and Maejor, titled “Let Me Be The One,” which was made possible by the Humanity Lab Foundation in partnership with Warner Music Brazil and the United Nations Brazil.

In his closing remarks Dr. Ingolf Dietrich, Commissioner for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), stated that “looking ahead we need a new paradigm to recover forward better. Guided by the 2030 Agenda, this paradigm recognizes the current situation as an opportunity to kick-start a transition from crisis to sustainable transformation.” The UN SDG Action Awards highlight the inspiring and transformative initiatives which do just that.

Watch the full UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony:

About the UN SDG Action Campaign

The United Nations Secretary-General established the UN SDG Action Campaign to bring people together from every part of the world to act on the SDGs and to hold decision-makers to account for progress. Through compelling and creative SDG outreach and communications, the Campaign serves UN Member States and the United Nations whilst bridging thinkers and doers from civil society, local governments, think tanks, the arts and culture, the media and the business world. It mobilizes individuals to champion the SDGs in homes, communities and beyond. Through tailored advocacy and communications, they build powerful networks that reach millions worldwide, urge decision-makers to act and impel momentum.

As the world is still grappling with the effects of the pandemic, and with many countries still in lockdown, this year’s SDG Global Festival of Action (March 25–26) gathered leaders and changemakers to explore how we can #TurnItAround and accelerate action for the Sustainable Development Goals and for a just and sustainable recovery.

 — @SDGaction

The virtual Festival program was even more engaging and diverse than previous editions — as we were able to virtually bring in more speakers from across the world! Talks, performances, interactive workshops and exhibitions engaged more than 20,000 people across the two days. The platform also featured a digital connection space where people could meet and network with each other from wherever they were. With over 20,000 remote participants tuning in from 203 countries and territories, this has been the Festival’s largest and most geographically diverse edition ever!

 — @SDGaction

Missed out on the first day of the Festival? No stress! Here are five highlights from Day 1 to bring you up to speed:

1. Let’s #TurnItAround: The time to act is now

The theme for this year’s Festival is “A Turning Point for People and Planet.” How can each of us take action at this critical moment to turn it around for the people and the planet?

The High-Level Opening Plenary set the tone on the discussions on shifting systems. It was followed by the Big Picture Plenary, addressing the top priorities on the world’s agenda from the global health crisis to the climate emergency from the threats to biodiversity to the threats to human rights and the deepening of inequalities and gender disparities. Big questions were explored during the session, and speakers agreed — that these issues are not unsolvable. They simply require urgent action at all levels, including by each one of us — as even individual actions, no matter how big or small, can add up to great impact.

 — @monicadprh

2. Need inspiration to act?

If people were interested in taking action for the SDGs, but were unsure how they could contribute, the Festival featured 12 short conversations and lightning talks, as well as 6 knowledge-sharing panels, to take participants through the complexity of current global challenges, whilst identifying bold and transformative actions.

Notable speakers for the conversations and talks included UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, who discussed the impact of the pandemic on women and youth in particular, and the silver linings that kept her optimistic; Filipino climate activist Mitzi Jonelle Tan, who delivered an impassioned plea to recognize and empower the marginalized that are bearing the brunt of climate change; Director of 4SD David Nabarro and Special Envoy on COVID-19 at the World Health Organization, who highlighted what we need to do to come through this pandemic and set the world on the right path.

 — @mitzijonelle

 — @SiobhanClaire

 — @AminaJMohammed

3. The Festival went local: Japan joins the force!

This year, Japan became the first country to host a local edition of the Festival — the SDG Global Festival of Action from Japan — where amazing content and local solutions were featured to inspire, not only nationwide, but also worldwide action for the SDGs.

 — @UNWebTV

 — @peace_boat

The Japan Stage opened with a “Lightning Talk: Message For Our Future,” where UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Misako Konno shared powerful messages from youth in Japan on how we can “turn it around” for people and the planet, in Japan and beyond. Youth voices were further amplified in the two Japan workshops, as young leaders shared their personal journeys of creating positive change for their community through action, innovation and entrepreneurship.

 — @MiohNemoto

 — @UNDPTokyo

4. Engagement with the Festival: just one click away

If you were looking for some hands-on learning experiences, the Festival had you covered! Various organizations and experts helped organize a total of 27 workshops spanning the 2 days, with a focus on ideation, upskilling, campaign activation, and well-being, creating an interactive and personalized experience for those who want to get started on taking concrete action.

 — @bankimooncentre

 — @HazamiBarmada

In between conversations, workshops and panel discussions, there were also musical performances featuring Kety Fusco, Miss Tati, Ben Harper, and Anaiis, among others.

You could always drop by the Experience and Action area for street art, photography, the new MY World 360° immersive media selection, and much more by artists like Yoko Ono, Uğur Gallenkuş, Google Arts&Culture, La Triennale Milano, Lavazza Group — all you needed to do to attend this virtual exhibition space was to register to join the Festival!

 — @SDGaction

 — @SDGaction

5. Celebrating the #SDGawards winners

Back in March 2020, a call went out to the international SDG Action Community, inviting people and organizations to share the most impactful initiatives to inspire, mobilize and connect for the SDGs. Despite a ranging pandemic, thousands of submissions poured in, proving yet again that even a global health emergency cannot hold back changemakers.

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of SDG Action Awards Finalists and Honourable Mentions, shining a spotlight on bold and impactful initiatives at a time when we most need hope, creativity and collaboration.

Meet the winners of the SDG Awards:

 — @SDGaction

 — @SDGaction

 — @SDGaction

Watch the Awards Ceremony

Looking ahead: Must-watch sessions for Day 2

After a day of inspiration for action, it’s time to take a deep dive into the solutions and the harder conversations we need in order to create real impact for the SDGs. Check out the program for Day 2, register for a workshop, or start off by exploring some of our recommended sessions below:

• Lightning Talk: by UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador MIYAVI
• Big Picture Plenary: Ready, Set…Let’s Make a Historical Leap Forward!
• Deep Dive Discussion: Turning Off the Tap On Ocean Plastic Pollution
• A Turning Point Dialogue: In conversation with Trisha Shetty

Day 1 Must watch List: Will be available on the Festival on-demand library in the coming days

• Deep Dive Discussion: The Youth Climate Report: Speaking Youth to Power
• Deep Dive Discussion: A new Eco Social Contract For People & Planet
• Big Picture Plenary: Think Big, Think Systems

Share with us YOUR ideas on how we can #TurnItAround

Don’t forget to continue engaging with the SDG Global Festival of Action on the virtual platform (it’s not too late to register!) and share your ideas, inspirations and favorite moments on Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, Instagram, and LinkedIn, using the hashtag #TurnItAround!

Don’t miss these other Festival highlights:

UN SDG Action Awards Winners announced
SDG Global Festival of Action — Day 2 highlights

By Amy Au

BONN, GERMANY, 25 MARCH — Calling for the beginning of a ‘new era’ following COVID-19 recovery, United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed alongside United Nations Development Programme Administrator Achim Steiner, spoke today at the fifth annual SDG Global Festival of Action, bringing to attention the urgent need for economic and social change that protects our ecosystems and humanity’s well-being.

The Deputy Secretary-General stated her support for an inter-generational transition, putting youth at the forefront to allow them to shape the SDG agenda, and encouraged countries to listen to its young people to ensure we don’t return to business as usual.

Convened over two days, from 25 to 26 March, under the theme ‘A Turning Point for People and Planet’, the Festival connected government and private sector leaders with changemakers, activists, creatives and more, hosting talks, performances, interactive workshops and exhibits to inspire and mobilize action. Because of the pandemic, the dynamic in-person event moved to a virtual platform, elevating its attendance to over 20,000 remote participants from 203 countries and territories, making it the largest and most geographically diverse Festival ever.

With the world still suffering from the effects of the pandemic and many countries still in lockdown, the year 2021 was framed as a critical year to accelerate progress on the SDGs, with climate, gender equality, poverty and inequalities, and sustainable financing firmly in focus. The Festival aimed to scale up both awareness and ambition ahead of important events such as the G20 meetings, The Generation Equality Forum, The Food Systems Summit and the important COP climate conferences in Italy and Scotland towards the end of the year. Over 300 speakers from 80+ countries represented the wide range of SDG stakeholders, came together to share their knowledge and experience on how to tackle the world’s ongoing challenges, present solutions and discuss what is at stake if we fail to meet the promises of the Sustainable Development Goals.

“It’s become clear that everyone has a role in advancing this transformation,’ said Achim Steiner, UNDP Administrator. “On the one hand, we need new policies that steer our societies in the right direction. On the other, each of us is an agent for change. Our individual behaviours will add up to make the difference — powerfully so.” Marina Ponti, Director of the SDG Action Campaign who organized the Festival, echoed the sense of optimism and called to seize the opportunities that came with the unprecedented global crisis we saw last year, noting that we should use what we’ve learned to shift the way we live, consume, earn and produce. “Together, we can dream big. We can act with shared heart and conviction. And we can generate a global turning point that resets our world for good.”

Other speakers during the opening day included SDG Advocate and disability activist Eddie Ndopu who talked about how the pandemic has caused pre-existing inequities to bubble up to the surface, including a crisis of inequality, the ecological breakdown of the planet, and systemic injustices — yet shared optimism in the fact that it has also compounded humanity’s capacity for creativity, genius and resilience. David Nabarro, Special Envoy of WHO on COVID-19, echoed Eddie’s statement in his talk highlighting that only by working together and supporting each other will humanity come through this pandemic with the strength it needs to help set the world on the right path.

Chairman of Japan SDGs Action Promotion Council, Norichika Kanie, was proud to represent Japan as they became the first country to host a local edition of the Festival — the SDG Global Festival of Action from Japan, an integral component of this year’s Global Festival. Sharing local solutions and setting an example of nationwide movement for action, the spin-off was curated by 12 UN agencies based in Japan and featured Goodwill Ambassadors Misako Konno (UNDP) and MIYAVI (UNHCR), popular comedian Yuriyan Retriever, and many other multi sectoral stakeholders. Dr. Kanie urged that we work together to combine our solutions for people and planet, to light the spark for action following the vision set out by the Sustainable Development Agenda.

Representing youth climate advocates, Mitzi Jonelle Tan from the Philippines joined with an impassioned plea to recognize and empower marginalized sectors of society, especially those from the global south, who are on the frontlines of the unequal impacts of climate change, and who are not always included in the conversations on how to confront the crisis.

To interact and engage the participants at the Festival, organizations and experts helped organize 27 workshops focusing on ideation, upskilling, campaign activation and well-being, creating a unique and personalized experience for the 10,000 participants that signed up to join just the workshops alone. Workshop hosts included civil society organisations such as Social Watch, Project Everyone, Humanity Lab Foundation and the World Organisation of the Scout Movement, with more lined up for Day 2.

The creative arts were also represented with musical contributions from global artist Yoko Ono with her ode to the planet ‘I love you Earth’, as well as performances from climate activists including Patti Smith, Bomba Estéreo, and Tenzin Choegyal scheduled for Day 2, The 20 exhibits that were available to participants throughout the program included exclusive pieces by La Triennale Di Milano, street art, photography and immersive media by Oculus, Lavazza, Canon, Google Arts & Culture Lab, and Terry Riley and Sasha Waltz.

About the SDG Action Campaign

The United Nations Secretary-General established the UN SDG Action Campaign to bring people together from every part of the world to act on the SDGs and to hold decision-makers to account for progress. Through compelling and creative SDG outreach and communications, the Campaign serves UN Member States and the United Nations whilst bridging thinkers and doers from civil society, local governments, think tanks, the arts and culture, the media and the business world. It mobilizes individuals to champion the SDGs in homes, communities and beyond. Through tailored advocacy and communications, they build powerful networks that reach millions worldwide, urge decision-makers to act and impel momentum.

Dive into our diverse and jam-packed program, spanning two days of action for the SDGs, with something for everyone. Make sure to plan in advance so you don’t miss any of the exciting sessions, workshops or experiences!

🗣️ 300+ speakers from 80+ countries 💡 1 Main Stage 🇯🇵 1 Japan Stage 🤝 4 Interactive Spaces 👥 27 Workshops 🎥 20 Exhibits 🎵 10 Performances 🌐 4 Networking Zones & more

Let’s go!

Featured speakers and performers:

Workshops

Our workshops are happening on Zoom, allowing up to the first 500 registered participants to join, access to Q&A, polling, raising hands and the possibility to be called upon by the host, and the ability to turn on microphone/video. If you registered, you will receive an email with the Zoom link.

If you cannot join via Zoom, you can still watch the workshops at the Workshop Area in the platform (Activation Space, Ideation Space, Upskilling Space and Japan Workshop). We have 27 super exciting workshops so be sure to check them out! Register for workshops

Exclusively on the platform

To enter the SDG Global Festival of Action virtual home, make sure you check your email for your activation code, log in to the platform and build your profile to connect with other SDG activists!

Guide

It’s not too late! Click here to register

Don’t miss the Experience & Action Area! Dive into innovative artistic works by legendary artists and activists such as Terry Riley, Sasha Waltz and Yoko Ono; and by world-renowned and emerging young photographers and street artists. Experience immersive media from across the world and experimental artworks that will let you feel the Heartbeat of the Earth! You will have the opportunity to connect directly with the creators and artists at any one of our 20 virtual exhibits, available exclusively on the platform.

Time to network! Jump into one of our 4 thematic connections spaces to find like-minded Festival participants and initiate one-on-one video chats! You can also search for specific profiles and people through the connect & search function, chat with them through instant messages, and even invite them to meet you in one of the themed networking lounges for a 1–2–1 video call

Want to find out more about how to navigate the event? Check out our FAQs! You will also find these — and important information about the Code of Conduct — at the Help Desk on the platform

And the winner is…

🏆 Don’t miss the UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony at 19:45 CET where the three winners will be unveiled, and we will celebrate the 2020 finalists and pay homage to our Honourable Mentions. Tune in for an evening of performances and celebration of what this community can achieve!

We want to hear from you!

Share your festival experience! Join the discussions by tagging us at @SDGAction on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using #TurnItAround, #SDGawards, and if you join the Japanese sessions — #SDGsで世界を変えよう. You can also connect with participants on the Twitter Walls shown in the platform. Make your voice heard!

👉🏽 Click to tweet

Use the frame & filters

Media center

The time has come! In less than 24 hours, we will meet at the SDG Global Festival of Action, and we cannot wait to welcome you in our new virtual home!

Are you ready to be inspired? Are you ready to #TurnItAround with us? First, let’s make sure you are ready to join when the program opens — starting at the Japan Stage tomorrow morning, Thursday, 25 March at 10:00 CET!

Did you receive your activation email?

Check your email! If you registered, you will receive an activation code by the end of today! The activation code will be sent to the email you used to register with, and will come from the following account: no-reply@sdgglobalfest.thevirtual.show. Make sure to check your junk/spam mail if you don’t see it!

Preview of activation email:

If you haven’t received the activation email by the end of the day, go to globalfestivalofaction.org and click “JOIN THE EVENT”. Here you will be redirected to the platform login page. If you select ‘forgot password’ and enter the email address you registered with, a new activation will be sent to your email account. If you still do not receive the activation email, try registering again or through a different account. Remember to check your spam folders when waiting for an activation email!Once you open the activation email and click on the button “Click here”, you will immediately be taken to the login page and will be asked to complete the onboarding process (required).

The first step is to set up a password — remember it, as you will use this to log in next time. Once you have this set-up you will be able to sign in to the SDG Global Festival of Action virtual venue.

Build your profile

After you set up your password, you can build your profile. Add your photo, name, country, job title and organization. Building your profile means people inside the virtual event can get to know you better and optimizes your networking opportunities.

Now you’ve entered the platform, welcome!

Want to find out more about how to navigate the event?
Check out our FAQs! You will also find these — and important information about the Code of Conduct — at the Help Desk once you enter the platform.It’s not too late! Click here to register🗣️ 300+ speakers from 80+ countries 💡 1 Main Stage 🇯🇵 1 Japan Stage🤝 4 Interactive Spaces 👥 27 Workshops 🎥 20 Exhibits 🎵 10 Performances🌐 4 Networking Zones & more

Dive into our diverse and jam-packed program, spanning two days of action for the SDGs, with something for everyone!

Plan ahead! Have you marked down which sessions and workshops to attend? Gear up for the SDG Global Festival of Action and grab a copy of the Program sheet here. Full online program

Join the live conversation!

Share your Festival experience! We want to hear your insights, reactions, comments live during the Festival. Tag us at @SDGAction on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using #TurnItAround, #SDGawards, and if you join the Japanese sessions — #SDGsで世界を変えよう. You can also connect with participants on the Twitter Walls shown in the platform.

The Festival is multilingual
Sessions featured on the Main Stage will be in English and simultaneously interpreted into French and Spanish and signed in International Sign Language for accessibility. Sessions on the Japan Stage will be in English and Japanese and will also be signed in International Sign Language.

🏆 UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony Thursday 25 March at 19:45 CET

Meet the 2020 UN SDG Action Awards winners, finalists, honourable mentions and judges who are mobilizing, inspiring and connecting to accelerate action for the Goals at the Awards Ceremony on 25 March 2021 at 19:45 CET where the three winners will be unveiled.

Use the Festival photo frame & SDG wings filters

Use the frame & filters

Spread the word

👉🏽 Click to tweet

Media center

On March 25 and 26, join us at the virtual SDG Global Festival of Action where a community of thousands of inspiring individuals, changemakers, activists, UN and government representatives, private sector leaders, artists and creators will take the opportunity to share their vision on how we can #TurnItAround for people and planet. Check out the diverse and jam-packed program, spanning two days of action for the SDGs!

Register now

🗣️ 300+ speakers from 80 countries 💡 1 Main Stage 🇯🇵 1 Japan Stage
🤝 4 Interactive Spaces 👥 25+ Workshops 🎥 20 Exhibits 🎵 10 Performances 🌐 4 Networking Zones & more!

The Festival’s dynamic virtual space has six different spaces featuring plenary sessions, lightning talks, performances, interactive workshops and exhibits. And for those that are interested in learning and sharing ideas, our interactive workshops will have something for everyone.

View program

Meet the speakers

Aside from our exciting panel discussions, we offer participants unique experiences through exhibits, networking spaces, workshops and more! Here is a brief overview of what to expect.

🌐 Experience and Action Area

Dive into innovative artistic works by legendary artists and activists such as Terry Riley, Sasha Waltz and Yoko Ono; and by world-renowned and emerging young photographers and street artists. Experience immersive media from across the world and experimental artworks that will let you feel the Heartbeat of the Earth! You will have the opportunity to connect directly with the artists at any one of our 20 virtual exhibits.

We are also showcasing the new MY World 360º Playlist. These immersive VR experiences cover topics like female perspectives on migration, the aftermath of the effects of climate change on the island of Mauritius, and the impact of constant connectivity on mental health. Do not miss it!

Exhibits

Creative Content

🤝 Network!

Jump into one of our 4 thematic connections spaces to find like-minded Festival participants and initiate one-on-one video chats! You can also search for specific profiles and people through the connect & search function. The Festival is after all, the global community’s ‘go-to’ meeting place and we’d love to keep the conversation going between the participants!

👥 Register for workshops

With more than 25 interactive workshops to choose from, learn how to engage with new campaigns, co-create novel solutions & interact with SDG solution makers. Spaces are limited so make sure to sign up now!

Register for workshops

Use the new SDG butterfly wings filters and Festival photo frame

Use the SDG butterfly wings AR filters on Facebook and Instagram

Add the Festival frame to your profile picture!

🏆 UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony

Meet the 2020 UN SDG Action Awards winners, honorable mentions and judges who are mobilizing, inspiring and connecting SDG changemakers to accelerate action for the Goals at the Awards Ceremony on 25 March 2021 at 19:45 CET

Spread the word

The Festival is a co-created event, involving everyone’s contributions — especially participants! Encourage friends, colleagues or partners who have the expert skills, new approaches and innovative initiatives to scale up SDG Action to join you in registering for the Festival. The visuals and social media content and templates can help get the word out!

👉🏽 Click to tweet

Media center

Stay up to date with news, announcements and the best stories from the SDG Action community and help us spread the word.

Follow the UN SDG Action Campaign
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, Youtube

On March 25 and 26, thousands of inspiring changemakers, activists, UN and government representatives, private sector leaders, artists, creators and individuals will take the opportunity to share their vision on how we can #TurnItAround for people and planet.

Register now

Exhibits, creative content, networking and more!

When we said the Festival was bigger and bolder than before, we meant it! Aside from our exciting panel discussions, we offer participants unique experiences through exhibits, networking spaces, workshops and more! You can find all details on our website globalfestivalofaction.org. Below is a brief overview of what to expect.

🌐 Experience and Action Area

Dive into innovative artistic works by legendary artists and activists such as Terry Riley, Sasha Waltz and Yoko Ono; and by world-renowned and emerging young photographers and street artists. Experience immersive media from across the world and experimental artworks that will let you feel the Heartbeat of the Earth! You will have the opportunity to connect directly with the artists at any one of our 20 virtual exhibits.

We are also showcasing the new MY World 360º Playlist. These immersive VR experiences cover topics like female perspectives on migration, the aftermath of the effects of climate change on the island of Mauritius, and the impact of constant connectivity on mental health. Do not miss it!

Exhibits

Creative Content

🤝 Network!

Jump into one of our 4 thematic connections spaces to find like-minded Festival participants and initiate one-on-one video chats! You can also search for specific profiles and people through the connect & search function. The Festival is after all, the global community’s ‘go-to’ meeting place and we’d love to keep the conversation going between the participants!

👥 Register for workshops

With more than 25 interactive workshops to choose from, learn how to engage with new campaigns, co-create novel solutions & interact with SDG solution makers. Spaces are limited so make sure to sign up now!

Register for workshops

Use the new SDG butterfly wings filters and Festival photo frame

Use the SDG butterfly wings AR filters on Facebook and Instagram

Add the Festival Facebook frame to your profile picture!

🏆 UN SDG Action Awards Ceremony

Meet the 2020 UN SDG Action Awards winners, honorable mentions and judges who are mobilizing, inspiring and connecting SDG changemakers to accelerate action for the Goals at the Awards Ceremony on 25 March 2021 at 19:45 CET

Spread the word

👉🏽 Click to tweet

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25–26 March 2021

The SDG Global Festival of Action provides the space to ideate and collaborate with SDG Actors from across the globe inside a variety of live workshop sessions! With more than 25 to choose from, these convening formats provides for a unique chance to engage with SDG campaigners and learn from their experience

Learn about ways to engage with new campaigns, co-create novel solutions and find out ‘how-to’ strengthen your SDG toolkit!

Are you interested in…

• Tapping into the power of the crowd through collective intelligence?
• Developing partnerships for a circular economy?
• Creating immersive media for impact?
• Co-creating a human centric solution agenda for climate action?
• Cracking the crises of COVID-19, climate and injustice in 2021?
• Joining young people who are changing the narrative during the COVID-19 pandemic?
• Collective meditation, breathwork, yoga, self-reflection — and so much more!

The interactive workshops have something for everyone. Spaces are limited so make sure to sign up now!

Register for workshops

How to register for workshops

The workshops will be run on Zoom and broadcasted live into the event platform. Up to 500 participants can join each session, allowing access to Q&A, polling, raising hands and the possibility to be called upon by the host and the ability to turn on microphone/video. If you aren’t able to register, you can still view the workshop from the Festival platform as an observer, but to interact, you’ll need to register!

1. Find an overview on the workshops page
2. Click REGISTER on your selected workshop page to reserve your spot for active participation
3. Register via zoom to receive a conformation email as well as reminders in the run up to the event
4. Join the workshops on 25–26 March and enjoy the whole SDG Global Festival of Action!

Note that the rest of the program will run on the event platform, including plenaries, sessions, performances, exhibits, creative content and more!

See the full program

Only 3 days left to share your video message to be featured in the live program

Joining us at the SDG Global Festival of Action? 🤩 Share your video message by 12 March on social media answering:

💭How can we make 2021 a turning point for people and the planet & what will you do personally to #TurnItAround for a just and green future?

Your video could be featured alongside leaders, advocates, campaigners and change-makers from across the world during the Festival! Tag us at @SDGAction on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Be aware that by submitting you agree that we can share your content publicly!

More info

Use the new official Festival Facebook photo frame

Add the official Festival Facebook frame to your profile picture!

Use the photo frame

Spread the word

The Festival is a co-created event, involving everyone’s contributions — especially participants! Encourage friends, colleagues or partners who have the expert skills, new approaches and innovative initiatives to scale up SDG Action to join you in registering for the Festival. The visuals and social media content and templates can help get the word out!

👉🏽 Click to tweet

Media center

Register now to take part in the Festival

SDG campaigners, advocates and activists from over 198 countries and territories have already registered! If you haven’t done so yet, register now to get inspired and connect people to scale up SDG action around the world.

Register

Stay tuned

Stay tuned for more to be announced in the coming days!

On March 25 and 26, join us at the virtual SDG Global Festival of Action where a community of thousands of inspiring individuals, changemakers, activists, UN and government representatives, private sector leaders, artists and creators will take the opportunity to share their vision on how we can #TurnItAround for people and planet. We are delighted to present a diverse and jam-packed program, spanning two days of action for the SDGs!

🗣️ 180+ speakers from 60 countries 💡 1 Main Stage 🇯🇵 1 Japan Stage
🤝 4 Interactive Spaces 👥 28 Workshops 🎥 20 Exhibits 🎵 10 Performances
🌐 4 Networking Zones & more!

The Festival’s dynamic virtual space has six different spaces featuring plenary sessions, lightning talks, performances, interactive workshops and exhibits. And for those that are interested in learning and sharing ideas, our interactive workshops will have something for everyone. Look out for our announcement on the full list of workshops and how to register soon!

View program

Meet the exciting lineup of speakers — Over 180+ speakers from 60 countries! Many more to be announced soon

Meet the speakers

SDG campaigners, advocates and activists from over 198 countries and territories have already registered! Register now to get inspired and connect people to scale up SDG action around the world. Register now

Be featured in the live program

Share your best video message on social media by 12 March on how we need to #TurnItAround for the #GlobalGoals. Your video could be featured alongside leaders, advocates, campaigners and change-makers from across the world during the Festival! Tag us at @SDGAction on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Be aware that by submitting you agree that we can share your content publicly! More info

The Festival is multilingual

🗣️ We’re thrilled to share that sessions featured on the Main Stage will be in English and simultaneously translated into French and Spanish and signed in International Sign Language for full accessibility.

🇯🇵 The SDG Global Festival of Action From Japan
Sessions on the Japan Stage will be in English and Japanese and will also be signed in International Sign Language. With a keen focus on exchanging best practice and innovations between Japanese stakeholders and international experts, this novel track will take international insights to a local audience and connect local innovations with global participants and networks.

Spread the word

The Festival is a co-created event, involving everyone’s contributions — especially participants! Encourage friends, colleagues or partners who have the expert skills, new approaches and innovative initiatives to scale up SDG Action to join you in registering for the Festival. The visuals and social media content and templates can help get the word out! Media center

Stay tuned!

Stay tuned for more to be announced in the coming days about interactive workshops, creative content, exhibits and more!