Youth Task Force 2025 Planning
Young Voices for Conservation: Highlights from the EAAFP Youth Task Force Meeting
Jennifer George, Chief Executive of the EAAFP Secretariat
On 12 July 2025, a significant meeting was held to relaunch the Youth Task Force of the East Asian–Australasian Flyway Partnership (EAAFP). In addition to enthusiastic young representatives from across the region, members of the Hanns Seidel Foundation Korea (HSF Korea) and the EAAFP Secretariat were also in attendance. The gathering aimed to define shared goals, strengthen networks, and develop a long-term vision for meaningful youth engagement in international conservation.
Following a warm and inspiring welcome from Jennifer George, Chief Executive of the EAAFP Secretariat, three Youth Task Force members – Matthew Vincent Tabilog (Chair of the Youth Task Force), Naim Khandakar (Vice Head of Research), and Sung Ka Chun (Head of Research) – each delivered presentations on youth-led initiatives from different regions along the Flyway.
One of the core components of the programme was the review and revision of the Youth Task Force’s Terms of Reference. In subsequent small group discussions, participants explored key challenges, future visions, and practical strategies. Numerous ideas were developed to overcome barriers and enhance youth involvement. A strong emphasis was placed on diverse forms of knowledge-sharing to nurture and motivate curious and committed young individuals in the long term. There was broad consensus that youth should be more actively involved in political decision-making processes.
The meeting concluded with remarks by Dr. Hyun-Ah Choi, who spoke about the role of the Hanns Seidel Foundation and its ongoing support for the Youth Task Force through scholarships, mentorship, and international networking opportunities. She emphasized the importance of the strong partnership between HSF Korea and the EAAFP in empowering the next generation of conservation leaders.
The July 12 meeting clearly demonstrated the immense potential of today’s youth. Their commitment, creativity, and willingness to collaborate are essential building blocks for the future of international conservation—across the Flyway and beyond.
