Vote of Thanks, TIHMC Board Chairperson, Adv Kgotso Maja
Event: Y20 Pre-Summit Event themed “Youth Building Bridges for a Sustainable Future”
Date: 18 to 19 June 2025
Hon Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities
Ambassador Xolisa Mabhongo, G20 South Africa Sous Sherpa, DIRCO
Prof Narnia Bohler Muller, W20 South Africa Chair
Raymond Matlala, Chairperson of Y20 South Africa
Cas Cavodia, B20 South Africa Sherpa
Lerato Maloko, F20 Engagement Manager
Nhlanhla Ndlovu, C20 Head of Secretariat
Representatives of our strategic partners and sponsors
Youth delegates from G20 member states, invited nations, and across the African continent
Media representatives, Distinguished guests and colleagues,
As we draw this milestone event—the first Y20 Africa Summit under South Africa’s G20 Presidency—to a close, it gives me immense pleasure to extend a heartfelt and sincere vote of thanks to all who have contributed to making this gathering a resounding success.
To our keynote speakers and dignitaries, your presence has not only elevated the profile of this Pre-Summit but has reaffirmed your commitment to investing in the power and potential of youth. Your insights reminded us of the value of intergenerational dialogue in shaping inclusive and forward-looking global policy.
To our partners, especially the South African BRICS Youth Association, Y20, South African Local Government Association (SALGA), South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP), Youth Chamber of Commerce and National Youth Coalition — thank you for your unwavering collaboration, visionary leadership, and tireless efforts in shaping a programme that was thoughtful, timely, and impactful.
To the youth delegates from across the G20 and beyond — you have truly inspired us. Your energy, intellect, and clarity of purpose have set a powerful tone. You came not just to be heard, but to lead. The ideas and policy recommendations shaped in these halls will undoubtedly echo far beyond them.
To our session chairs, Sherpas, facilitators, panellists, and contributors — thank you for bringing depth and meaning to every conversation. Your efforts ensured that our dialogues were not only engaging but actionable.
To the operations team — our coordinators, support staff, media crews, venue and logistics teams — your professionalism and seamless execution were the backbone of this summit. We recognize and appreciate the unseen yet essential work you’ve done.
At The Innovation Hub, we are committed to building platforms that foster innovation, collaboration, and long-term impact. This Pre-Summit has embodied those values — bringing together youth from diverse backgrounds to co-create a shared vision that embraces solidarity, champions equality, and drives sustainability.
As we look ahead to the Y20 Summit in August and the G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025, we do so with renewed purpose and confidence, knowing that this gathering has laid a solid foundation for what is to come.
To everyone who walked this journey with us — thank you. May the connections made here continue to grow and bear fruit in your communities, your countries, and our shared global future.
