York University UNESCO Chair Charles Hopkins and Adjunct Professor Mark Terry will represent the University by joining the international team of judges evaluating applications for the annual QS ImpACT Awards, which honour the sustainability efforts of young changemakers from across the globe.

The QS ImpACT Awards notably highlight the outstanding contributions of individuals who have served as catalysts for transformative change on a local and global scale through projects, events and initiatives in local communities or institutions that explored solutions to the sustainability challenges of today.

“It is crucial to recognize the engagement of young people with the SDGs [United Nations Sustainable Development Goals] with this award ceremony, as it does not only recognize individual achievement but creates a global community of changemakers for sustainability,” says Hopkins.

Youth activism is also critical for sustainable development because it “can lead to lasting societal change,” adds Terry.

The York members’ selection as judges is not only an acknowledgement of their own impact on global sustainability efforts but a recognition that York is continuing to strengthen its momentum as a global leader in sustainability, which has included participation and appearances in rankings organized by QS, a leading international company in the education sector and a partner of QS ImpACT.

The award ceremony will be held online on Jan. 18. Register to attend: qsimpact.org/awards.

Article published in the January 9, 2024 issue of Yfile