Junk Kouture took centre stage at the One Young World 2023 Belfast Summit, with the premiere of an inspiring short film at the Summit’s opening ceremony.
The film serves as a heartfelt plea from Generation Z to previous generations to join hands in the fight against climate change.
The film aligns with the five plenary challenges of the 2023 One Young World Summit: Peace and Reconciliation, Climate Emergency, Food Crisis, Education, and Mental Health.
Laois woman, Sarah Tuohy was one of the five representatives, presenting ‘Peace Unfolds’.
Junk Kouture is a creative programme for youth, known for its innovative designs made from upcycled materials, that promotes the importance of sustainability.
Encouraging youth to craft stylish outfits from discarded materials, this initiative demonstrates the transformative potential of recycling commonly overlooked items.
The short film, set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland’s breath-taking landscapes, seamlessly connects key points of interest in Derry, Antrim, and Down, with the One Young World Plenary Challenges, all while showcasing Junk Kouture’s innovative designs.
From the windswept Downhill Beach to the iconic Peace Bridge and from bustling Belfast to the serene Silent Valley, the film is a captivating journey through Northern Ireland’s beauty and history.
Each of the remarkable designs featured in the film was conceived, designed, and worn by Junk Kouture alumni, carefully chosen to represent the essence of each plenary challenge:
- Sarah Tuohy, 20, from Laois presents ‘Peace Unfolds’ for Peace & Reconciliation, symbolizing a generation’s quest for a more peaceful world.
- Londiwe Ndlovu 18, from Westmeath, presents ‘It’s All about The Package’ for Food Crisis, championing change in communities through creative packaging materials.
- Rachel Irwin 20, from Antrim, presents ‘Serenity’ for Mental Health, blending art, creativity, and personal experiences into her design.
- Sarah Lane 20, from Cork, presents ‘Lady Equilateral’ for Education, raising awareness of STEAM education with crocheted fruit and vegetable nets.
- Bríd McSharry 20, from Sligo, presents ‘Wave Away Waste’ for Climate Emergency, highlighting ocean pollution through upcycled plastic bags.
Distinguished speakers at the event included:
- Londiwe Ndlovu, Junk Kouture Designer and Future Leader Network Ambassador,
- Elizabeth Faber, Deloitte Global Chief People and Purpose Officer,
- Jackie Henry, managing partner, People and Purpose, Deloitte United Kingdom,
- Dr. George ‘Jo Jo’ Boateng, CEO and Co-Founder of Kwame AI.
With over 2,000 young leaders from 190+ countries gathered in Belfast, the One Young World Summit was a global stage for meaningful discussions and impactful actions.
Megan Kelly, Director of Global Events and Production at Junk Kouture said:
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Deloitte and One Young World for this incredible opportunity.
“It is through such opportunities that we can continue to support young people, enabling them to have their voices heard and to use their innate creativity to make an impact on our world.”
The short film can be viewed here.
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