Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt’s Mariam Solika named First Egyptian UN Young Leader for Sustainable Development 2025
Egypt’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Ashraf Sobhy, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Egyptian changemaker Mariam Solika, who has been selected as one of the United Nations Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2025. Solika is the first young Egyptian ever to earn this prestigious international distinction, standing out from over 33,000 applicants across 150 countries worldwide.
Minister Sobhy described this achievement as a testament to the excellence and leadership of Egyptian youth on the global stage. He attributed this success to the steadfast national commitment, under President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, to empower young people and open doors for their active participation in sustainable development, in line with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and the National Youth and Sports Strategy (2025–2034).
Mariam Solika, known for her pioneering work in creative media and community initiatives, has collaborated closely with Egypt’s Ministry of Youth and Sports to launch developmental programs that empower fellow youth, foster hope, cultivate creativity, and promote social responsibility.
Her selection comes as part of the United Nations’ announcement of the fifth cohort of Young Leaders for the SDGs—the first since the formal establishment of the UN Youth Office. This global program biennially honors 17 outstanding young people under the age of 35 who have made notable impacts in their communities, advancing sustainable development, human rights, peace, and security.
Solika’s nomination recognizes her innovative use of storytelling and digital media through her platform, "The Good News", which spotlights positive change across the Arab world and reimagines media as a tool for social development and youth empowerment.
Reflecting on the honor, Mariam Solika shared, “It is a privilege to represent Egyptian and Arab youth on this global path, and to bring our stories and experiences to the world, demonstrating our values and power to inspire meaningful change.”
UN Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs Felipe Paullier added, “This year’s Young Leaders embody courage, creativity, and a real commitment to making change in every corner of the world. In a time of increasing challenges and divisions, they carry the spirit of the United Nations—unity, action, and hope for a better tomorrow.”
The distinguished jury included global figures from politics, culture, media, and the arts, such as Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser (Chairperson of Education Above All Foundation and SDGs Advocate), former Senegalese Prime Minister Aminata Touré, former Costa Rican President Carlos Alvarado Quesada, Nigerian artist and activist DJ Cuppy, writer and mental health advocate Gemma Styles, and British actor Will Poulter.
Minister Sobhy concluded, “Mariam Solika’s achievement is a source of pride for all Egyptian youth, reaffirming that investing in our young people is truly investing in our future. The Ministry will always support every young woman and man who elevates Egypt on the world stage and helps build a more sustainable and humane future.”