Transitional spaces: reflections on the SDG’s, international communities, and what’s next

(**Note: this was written as a draft before the UNLEASH Conference, which took place Aug. 13–21, 2017.)

I currently work for an NGO called Engineers Without Borders USA as a Volunteer and Communications Coordinator. When offered the chance to participate in one of the wildest ventures of 2017, the UNLEASH Conference — where participants would dare to imagine what the world can do here and now to promote sustainable development on a global scale, I said yes and then said it again, louder. Surrounding myself with millennials from around the world who bring experience in areas that compliment my understanding of sustainable development practices, as well as seasoned professional experts who can make dreams a reality? The possibilities thrill me.

More than anything, as I approach this coming 9-day period, I want to soak up dynamic vantage points and global perspectives on current issues. I want to challenge my conventional perspective to think outside of the box when approaching issues that my industry faces as well as those connected with it, and to bring tools back to my team as well as our volunteer base at EWB-USA which will inspire them to tackle challenges from a new angle. I am excited to hear more about how our global issues intersect between sectors, across regions of the world, and tether us all to the success of these initiatives for better or worse.

Mainly, I hope to make information on simple ways to act on the Sustainable Development Goals accessible to a larger global audience. EWB-USA currently is fortunate enough to have thousands of passionate volunteers working toward poverty eradication and partnering with communities to build sustainable futures. This group is largely comprised of millennials ready to take on the world’s greatest challenges — their eyes and ears are wide open. I can’t wait to tell them what I’ve learned here — there is no lack of talent and they’re ready and waiting for a chance to make the world a better place, as am I.