Photo: UN Photo/Jerry Frank
Youth have always played an important role in the social development of indigenous communities and the younger generation’s embrace of technology provides more opportunities for finding solutions to social issues. At a side event entitled “WISH 2016: Wisdom of Indigenous & Human Survival,” held at UN Headquarters in New York on 17 May, representatives from business, indigenous communities and educators came together to discuss indigenous empowerment through youth, culture and technology. The event was part of the 15th Session of the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII).
The side event’s keynote speaker, Ruth DeGolia, addressed the role partnerships and technology could play in connecting indigenous youth and culture to the global marketplace. Mercado Global, an ethical fashion brand and social enterprise founded by Ms. DeGolia, partners with indigenous artisans and cooperatives to provide them with access to international retailers. She called on other organizations and businesses to follow the Mercado Global model of cross-cultural collaboration to help empower marginalized indigenous youth by connecting their artistic culture and skills with international demand.
A panel of speakers at the side event also spoke about the need to invest in leadership and culture among indigenous youth that would allow them to build and take charge of their communities. The panelists also discussed the use of technology and media among indigenous youth for cross-cultural collaboration to preserve indigenous culture and identities.
The trailer for the upcoming film, This is Who I Am, was also previewed at the event. Produced by young indigenous filmmaker Kalvin Hartwig, the film shares his experience of being young and indigenous while coming to terms with culture and identity in a non-indigenous society.
The event was organized by sustainable design firm SMPLCT Lab, in partnership with Habitat Pro Association, an indigenous youth and women’s rights organization based in Peru.
Source & Copyright: UNDESA
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