Digitalization is transforming our world, offering unprecedented opportunities to accelerate sustainable development. Digital technologies such as mobile devices, services, and artificial intelligence are instrumental in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In Cyprus, we celebrate the role of Cypriot youth in pushing forward innovation and collaboration towards achieving sustainable development for all.

Two fashion designers, members of the Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus explain how their network uses digital platforms to engage with young people across the divide and the role of social media in reaching out to a younger audience. 

Thalis Chrysostomou, a 24-year-old Cypriot, highlights that the Fashion Heritage Network Cyprus (link) understands the effectiveness and is highly active on social platforms.

He explains, “our project uses digital platforms to engage with young people by promoting events and workshops focusing on heritage and sustainability, such as the Cyprus Fashion Film Festival and the REVIVE exhibition."

He tells further that these initiatives "focus on preserving Cypriot cultural heritage while also including contemporary, sustainable fashion and art created by emerging creatives." 

This intercommunal network, like others which partner with UNFICYP, aims to spread their mission and values to the youth through a strong online presence through social media platforms, which helps them to connect with their audience, share updates, and promote their work”.

Rengin Akcan, a 27-year-old Cypriot fashion designer, who is also partners with Thalis, believes that digital platforms are crucial and the most effective communication tool of their era.

For her, “there is not a platform or a place where the audience is bigger, also we need to consider its speed. We can reply faster, which allows a prompt engagement with those who want to learn more about our work. Digital platforms can reach anyone and it does not depend on where they are geographically." 

However, Akcan also points out that digital engagement is not a replacement mechanism to bring communities together: "we cannot forget of how valuable it is to engage as a community in person." 

She recalls a workshop held in collaboration with UNFICYP held inside the buffer zone: "the project brought in artisan ladies from far villages, and they taught us how to work with straws. It was an amazing experience to be in the same room with these ladies and, not only learn about the handicraft, but also listen to their stories."

International Youth Day is commemorated every year on 12 August, bringing youth issues to the attention of the international community and celebrating the potential of youth as partners in today’s global society.

For UNFICYP, engaging with young Cypriots plays a vital role to foster meaningful interactions and increase understanding and trust between the communities. We believe that by encouraging youth engagement active participation provides them with the necessary tools to help amplify their voices and inspire a path towards a sustainable future.