BEIJING, China, 24 November 2025 – The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in China, in partnership with the philanthropic data platform Yishan, hosted a seminar today to launch the UNFPA Youth Leadership Challenge at the UN Compound in Beijing.
The seminar was aimed at fostering cross-sectoral dialogue on adolescent development, and officially kicked off a nationwide initiative designed to empower young people as leaders and active contributors to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It brought together participants from the private sector, philanthropic organizations, educators, and youth representatives to discuss critical issues surrounding adolescent development.
The event also served as the official launch for the "UNFPA Youth Leadership Challenge," an initiative inviting middle and high school students across China to be proactive change-makers in their schools and communities.
"UNFPA is committed to empowering young people to realize their full potential. At a time when societies are confronting complex challenges, youth leadership is not only valuable but essential. Young people are at the forefront of shaping healthier, more equal, and more resilient communities, bringing fresh ideas and digital confidence,” said Ms. Nadia Rasheed, Representative of UNFPA China. "This Youth Leadership Challenge creates a platform for dialogue and action, ensuring young people’s voices are heard and their ideas are valued."
The seminar delved into core themes vital for youth development, including youth empowerment and participation, cross-sector collaboration, and case studies that showcased impactful philanthropic activities and educational practices centered on adolescent health and well-being.
Speakers at the event also included Lan Yixin, Dean of Institute for Philanthropy, Tsinghua University, who highlighted the strategic importance of developing leadership among middle school students. Cheng Fen, Vice Dean of the China Philanthropy Research Institute, Beijing Normal University presented the "2025 White Paper on Youth Public Welfare Practice in China," showcasing the rise of young people as active contributors to social good, while emphasizing the effectiveness of strategic joint efforts from the philanthropic sector.
Peng Jiong, UNFPA Assistant Representative, shared UNFPA’s work on comprehensive sexuality education in Muli County, Sichuan, and Pengshui County, Chongqing, which is equipping young people with knowledge and skills to make healthy choices and improve their well-being. Student representatives from the Beijing Academy CBD Experiential School presented a Call to Action for middle school students across China, encouraging young people to be drivers for change.
The event also featured a presentation on the philanthropic donation trends for youth and children in China by Yishan.
“As a data-driven platform, Yishan is dedicated to providing scientific references for decision-making in philanthropy. We are proud to partner with UNFPA to launch this Challenge, which translates data and dialogue into concrete opportunities for young people to create real-world impact," said Tao Ze, Founder of Yishan.
● About UNFPA:
UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, working to uphold the rights and choices of women, girls and young people across more than 150 countries and territories. It reaches millions of women, girls and young people with essential health services, protection from violence, and with vital information about their bodies and rights. It also helps governments plan for changing population needs so people can thrive today and in the future, regardless of fertility trends.
● About Yishan:
Yishan is a leading data-driven philanthropic service platform in China, dedicated to providing data insights and fostering collaboration to promote sustainable and inclusive social development.
● For more information please contact:
Shujun Liu, Communications Analyst, UNFPA China, sliu@unfpa.org.
