Navigating the Post-COVID World: A Look Back at the Global Shapers 2022 Summit

The year 2022 marked an important milestone for the Global Shapers community as we convened in Geneva, Switzerland for the Annual Summit. As a curator of Mogadishu Hub, I was honored to represent my community at this prestigious event. The summit took place at the United Nations compound in Geneva and the headquarters of the World Economic Forum (WEF), and it brought together over 500 young thought leaders from around the world.

The timing of the summit could not have been more critical, as the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and new threats to global development. As young leaders, it is our duty to contribute to the solutions that will shape a better, just, and sustainable future. The Global Shapers community is well placed to play this role, and the summit provided an opportunity for us to deepen our understanding of the key global challenges and to discuss the ways in which we can make an impact.

During the three-day summit, we had the opportunity to delve into issues such as fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, inflation, droughts, climate change, and shrinking civic spaces. We also engaged in workshops, seminars, and leadership conversations that focused on the impact priorities of the Global Shapers Community, including skills for the future, protecting the planet, and strengthening civic space.

One of the highlights of the summit was the opportunity to interact with Professor Klaus Schwab, the founder and chairperson of the World Economic Forum, and Hilde Schwab, the chairperson of the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship. It was inspiring to hear their perspectives on the role of young leaders in shaping the future and to learn about the initiatives that the WEF is undertaking to support this effort.

The summit was an excellent platform for me to reconnect with colleagues from the World Economic Forum, Global Shapers community, and Davos50. It was also a great opportunity to build bonds and deeper connections with colleagues from over 500 hubs around the world. The shared experience of the summit allowed us to exchange ideas and learn from each other, and it was inspiring to see the passion and commitment of the young leaders who attended.

The major takeaway from the summit was the need for us, as young leaders, to rethink our leadership style in the face of today’s global challenges. We must be proactive and innovative in our approach, and we must work together to create solutions that will have a lasting impact. The summit also reinforced the importance of building relationships and networks, and it provided an opportunity for us to connect with like-minded individuals who share our vision for a better world.

In conclusion, I was honored and humbled to carry the torch from Somalia. The summit provided a platform for us to share our ideas, learn from each other, and make meaningful connections that will support our efforts to create positive change in the world. I am committed to continuing my work with the Global Shapers community, and I am confident that together, we can make a lasting impact on the world.