KATHMANDU, Oct 29: Aishworya Shrestha from Nepal has been recognized as one of 17 Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations, marking her place on the global stage of youth changemakers. The announcement coincided with UN Day and the unveiling of the fifth cohort, the first selected by the newly established United Nations Youth Office, which continues the legacy of the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth.
Shrestha, 28, a social worker, researcher, and co-founder of Heart of Nepal and Antardhoni Nepal, joins a diverse group of young leaders driving solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Every two years, the UN Youth Office selects exceptional youth between 16 and 33 years of age who are advancing the SDGs through innovative initiatives in areas such as sustainable development, human rights, peace, and security.
Achieving SDGs underscored in Asian Youth Assembly
This year’s selection process received over 33,000 applications from more than 150 countries. The 2025 cohort includes artists, entrepreneurs, athletes, physicians, peacebuilders, and scientists, reflecting the breadth of global youth leadership.
“The 2025 cohort of Young Leaders for the SDGs is a powerful testament to the courage, creativity, and commitment of young people driving real change in every corner of the world,” said Felipe Paullier, UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs. “From confronting the climate crisis and advancing mental health, to reimagining education and championing peace, these young leaders are actively reshaping the future. They embody the spirit of the United Nations: unity, action, and hope for a better tomorrow.”
Among others, the 2025 cohort includes Adelin Pierre of Haiti, 33, a peacebuilder and environmental activist; Anthurium Lewis of Trinidad and Tobago, 16, founder of Fruits For Tomorrow and a child rights ambassador; Dikatauna Kwa of Papua New Guinea, 27, a biologist and social entrepreneur; and Enzo Romero of Peru, 33, a mechatronics engineer and founder of LAT Bionics.
The cohort was selected with guidance from a distinguished judges panel comprising global leaders from the entertainment industry, civil society, government, and the private sector, including former leaders, SDG advocates, and prominent influencers.
Through this initiative, the UN Youth Office continues to inspire millions of young people worldwide, amplifying youth-led innovation and collaboration toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
