Embracing the Future: The SMART FUTURES FESTIVAL - May 24-26, 2024

As the world converges on Antigua and Barbuda for the UN Conference on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) from May 27-29, we are thrilled to announce the SIDS SMART Futures Festival a hybrid event to be held at Antigua and Barbuda.

The SIDS SMART Futures Festival, taking place from May 24-26, is a dynamic three-day learning event designed to engage individuals and communities invested in the development agenda of the 55 member nations of the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS). These nations span the globe, from Kiribati in the East, through Fiji, Singapore, the Maldives, Cape Verde, and the Caribbean islands from Trinidad to Belize—crossing all time zones.

Our festival’s agenda ensures opportunities for participation from all member nations, fostering transnational dialogue and collaboration. The discussions will be guided by three organizing questions that drive our dialogue on "HOW WE SHARE OUR FUTURE":

Day 1: How We See the Future

This day is dedicated to envisioning the future. We will explore emerging trends, potential challenges, and opportunities that lie ahead. Discussions will focus on shared visions and aspirations for sustainable development and resilience in our island states.

Day 2: How We Shape The Future

On the second day, the focus shifts to action. We will discuss strategies, policies, and innovations that can shape a sustainable future. This includes sharing best practices, technological advancements, and collaborative efforts that can drive positive change across SIDS.

Day 3: How We Seed the Future

The final day emphasizes implementation and investment in the future. We will explore ways to plant the seeds for long-term success, including capacity building, education, and community engagement. This day aims to empower participants with the tools and knowledge to drive forward the sustainable development agenda.

The overarching goal of the SIDS SMART Futures Festival is to lay out a comprehensive roadmap for the UN4SIDS Decennial Conference and its outcomes. By bringing together diverse voices and perspectives, we aim to create a unified vision and actionable plan for the future of small island developing states.

This festival promises a comprehensive and immersive experience through discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions centered on the following pivotal areas:

1. The Blue Economy and Climate Change: Our oceans are vital to the survival and prosperity of SIDS. The festival will delve into sustainable practices that harness the potential of the Blue Economy while mitigating the impacts of climate change. Attendees will engage with experts and innovators to explore how we can protect our marine resources and ensure their sustainable use for future generations.

2. Economic Resilience: Economic stability is essential for the sustainable development of SIDS. This segment will address strategies to enhance economic resilience, focusing on diversification, innovation, and sustainable growth. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from success stories and best practices, gaining insights into building robust economies that can withstand global challenges.

3. Human Security: The well-being of our populations is paramount. Sessions under this theme will cover a broad spectrum of topics including health, education, and social protection. The aim is to create inclusive societies where all individuals can thrive, ensuring human security in the face of evolving threats and uncertainties.

Why Attend?

Youth Empowerment: The festival places a strong emphasis on youth engagement, recognizing the critical role young people play in shaping the future. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and interactive panels, young attendees will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to become leaders and change-makers in their communities.

Community Involvement: By fostering a collaborative environment, the SIDS SMART Futures Festival aims to bring together civil society, policymakers, and thought leaders. This inclusive approach ensures that diverse voices are heard and collective action is taken to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing SIDS.

Innovative Solutions: Attendees will have the chance to explore cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions that can drive sustainable development. From renewable energy projects to digital transformation initiatives, the festival will showcase practical applications that can be adopted and adapted across various contexts.

Join Us

The SIDS SMART Futures Festival is more than an event; it is a movement towards a sustainable and resilient future for small island developing states. We invite everyone—students, professionals, community leaders, and global citizens—to join us in this journey of discovery and transformation.

Together, we can chart a course for a brighter, more sustainable future for SIDS. Let’s unite, innovate, and inspire change from May 24-26 in Antigua and Barbuda.

For more details and to register, visit our website.

This festival promises to be an inspiring and transformative experience, and we look forward to your participation. See you in Antigua and Barbuda!

#SIDSFutures #SMARTFutures #ResilientFutures?#SustainableDevelopment #YouthEmpowerment #BlueEconomy #EconomicResilience #HumanSecurity #UNSIDS2024