Global Sustainable Development Leaders
30 Under 30 & 25 Under 25
2025 Annual List
Program Introduction, Vision and Mission
The “30 Under 30 & 25 Under 25” is a flagship initiative launched by the Global ESG Leadership Association (GELA) to recognize and celebrate young leaders who have made exceptional contributions to sustainable development across diverse fields, including artificial intelligence, space exploration, clean energy, carbon technology, culture and arts, and international collaboration. By integrating resources from businesses, media, universities, non-profit organizations, and other social and commercial entities, the initiative provides a global platform for young talents to showcase their capabilities and drive impactful projects to fruition.
The program’s mission is to inspire, support, and empower young leaders, advancing the achievement of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). GELA seeks to build cross-sector collaboration platforms that amplify the influence of young individuals in sustainable development, motivating more youth to engage in addressing critical global challenges such as leading technological innovation, overcoming energy constraints, combating climate change, and improving resource management.
This initiative is open to outstanding young individuals under the age of 30 (30 Under 30) and exceptional talents under the age of 25 (25 Under 25) from across the globe. Candidates are required to demonstrate leadership, innovation, and long-term impact in various subfields of sustainable development. Whether through academic research, entrepreneurial endeavors, or social impact initiatives, those who have excelled in driving sustainable development forward are encouraged to participate and apply.
Potential Candidates
Leadership: Candidates must have founded or co-founded at least one enterprise or non-profit organization, serving as a founder, co-founder, CEO, or in a comparable leadership role. Over the past year, the organization they lead should have achieved significant growth and demonstrated exceptional management and leadership capabilities in the field of sustainable development.
Innovation: Candidates should have proposed and implemented distinctive innovative initiatives or projects that have earned recognition from authoritative bodies and delivered tangible results across diverse communities.
Impact: The enterprise or project must have directly benefited ≥1,000 individuals and garnered widespread public attention through social media, events, or other channels.
Sustainability: The enterprise or project must demonstrate the capacity for sustained operation, delivering long-term social, environmental, and economic benefits.
Global Perspective: Candidates must have engaged in cross-cultural collaborations, advanced international initiatives, and exhibited a mindset of diversity and inclusivity.
Evaluation Criteria
Evaluation Process
Launch: Introduction of the event overview
Sign Up: Open registration channels and upload personal materials
Preliminary Trial: Initial review by judges
Vote: Official Nomination Open & Global Voting Begins
Retrial: Final review by expert judges
List Publish and Prize Present: Official media release of the list and online and offline award ceremony
Global Influence: This initiative unites top leaders from global business, academia, and nonprofits to ensure a fair and impactful selection process. Honorees will join GELA’s global network, participating in international forums and sustainability events to enhance their global reach.
Media Support: Recognized by renowned global media, honorees will gain media exposure and feature coverage, amplifying their projects and social impact.
International Platform: Honorees will access GELA’s global network, including cross-sector collaboration, mentorship, and opportunities at international conferences and summits.
Personal Honors: Honorees will receive a GELA certification and be celebrated at the annual awards ceremony.
Innovation Support: A dedicated platform will connect honorees with industry leaders and innovators, offering funding and resources to turn ideas into impactful solutions.
Social Responsibility: Honorees are encouraged to lead social impact projects, driving progress in equity and sustainability.
Evaluation Highlights
Application Channel
File the Form or scan the QR code below to apply immediately!
Google Form: https://forms.gle/Ek4JR64p9tZbS77T8
WeChat Form: https://wj.qq.com/s2/17936335/c92d/
The registration will be open at 8:00 PM, February 19th, 2025.
The registration deadline is 11:59 PM, March 15th, 2025.
The registration form can only be submitted once.
The video is created by Sora.Judge List
Final Judges (Continuously Updated)
Mr. Lawrence X. Pan was the China Chief Representative and Managing Director of Asia Pacific Region of NASDAQ, and also one of the official spoken person for NASDAQ.
Mr. Pan has over 15 years of securities and commodities industry experience. Most recently CEO with Asia Pacific Capital, Mr. Pan has previously held senior positions in corporate finance and asset management at Morgan Stanley, providing advice to a variety of Chinese companies and banks seeking to access the US Capital Markets. Additionally, Mr. Pan has held management position and been licensed senior trader with considerable knowledge of trading platforms and strategies through his experience with HS Securities & Futures and CNIEC.
Mr. Pan has a B.S. and M.S. in Materials Science from BIT, an EMBA in International Business from University of London and a Certificate in Financial Analysis from NYU. He is fluent in English and a native speaker of Mandarin.
Feng Li is the Founding Partner of Frees Fund, focusing on investments in hard technology, biopharmaceuticals, and consumer/TMT sectors. With extensive venture capital experience, he has also conducted long-term research on macroeconomic trends.
Before founding Frees Fund, he was a Partner and Investment Decision Committee member at IDG Capital.
Over nearly two decades, he has led investments in Bilibili, Three Squirrels, XtalPi, Unity, CreditEase, 360 DigiTech, BaiRong Inc., Coinbase, and Dida Chuxing, all of which went public on major exchanges.
Feng Li holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Peking University and an M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Rochester.
Mr. Gao Chao is the Co-founder and Managing Director of Meixun. He was the first Head of PR for Amazon and Uber China and previously served as Executive Partner & CMO at Ucommune, PR Director at PepsiCo Greater China, and Corporate Communications Director at Dell Greater China.
He holds an International MBA (BiMBA) from Peking University and an MBA from Fordham University’s Gabelli School of Business in New York. With extensive experience in corporate management and public relations, he has worked with both multinational corporations and innovative local enterprises.
Ms. Lu Zhang is the Founder and Managing Partner of Fusion Fund, a Silicon Valley-based investor, serial entrepreneur, and Stanford Engineering alumna. With expertise in AI in healthcare, enterprise AI, and data privacy, she has led over 80 investments across the U.S. and Canada, generating notable exits.
Before founding Fusion Fund in 2015, Ms. Lu Zhang was a serial entrepreneur and materials science researcher. After selling her startup to a leading medical device company, she transitioned to venture investing.
Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, she has also been named among Silicon Valley Women of Influence, Business Insider’s Top 25 Female Early-Stage Investors, and Forbes 30 Under 30 (VC).
She frequently speaks at global tech conferences and serves as a board member of multiple companies. Ms. Lu Zhang holds an M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering from Stanford University.
Ms. Li Li is the Founding Partner of Next Capital and a renowned angel investor. She has led early-stage investments in Lexin (NASDAQ: LX), Tiger Brokers (NASDAQ: TIGR), Tuanche (NASDAQ: TC), Meiyou, Niuguwang, YikuaiBao, PingCAP, Caibeike, Yunding Smart, and other innovative companies.
In 2017, Ms. Li Li founded Next Capital, focusing on early-stage investments in technology innovation. Her investment areas include AI, hard technology, digital healthcare, global tech expansion, biotech & life sciences, enterprise services, cloud-native technologies, specialized and sophisticated enterprises, and robotics. Next Capital has backed high-growth startups such as Genki Forest, Panda Remit, Xunzhao Duojiaoshou, Dianjiang Technology, Shize Biotech, Xinsu Technology, Weiming Shiguang, Olive Branch Health, and Silicon-based Bionics.
Previously, Ms. Li Li served as Deputy Editor-in-Chief of IT Manager World, where she conducted an exclusive interview with Jeff Bezos. She is also the author of Light Company, a 2009 bestseller in the business category on Amazon China and Dangdang.
Additionally, Ms. Li Li is the Founder of Xiaofanzhuo, a venture capital service platform.
Preliminary Judges (Continuously Updated)
Mr. Chen Qiufan is a writer, translator, and futurist, currently serving as Deputy Director of the Science Fiction Literature Committee of the China Writers Association, Vice President of the China Science Writers Association, a Visiting Scholar at Yale University, and a Berggruen Scholar.
His major works include The Waste Tide, AI 2041 (co-authored with Dr. Kai-Fu Lee), Algorithm of Life, Zero-Carbon China, and Songs of the Mountains and Seas, among others. His works have been widely translated into over 20 languages and have received numerous awards, including the Mao Dun New Talent Award, Global Chinese Science Fiction Nebula Award, China Science Fiction Galaxy Award, Asia Weekly’s Top 10 Novels of the Year, and Germany’s Business Book of the Year.
Mr. Chen’s writing explores a broad range of themes, including AI and tech ethics, climate change and environmental protection, planetary civilization, and the philosophy of mind.
Ms. Dong Xiaoman is a Professional Officer at the United Nations Youth Office and a lecturer at the School of International Organization, Beijing Foreign Studies University.
She earned a dual bachelor's degree in Philosophy and Asian Studies from Furman University in 2014, followed by a Master’s degree in Anthropology from the London School of Economics and Political Science. In 2016, she participated in the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program, working with the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS). She later obtained her Ph.D. in International Relations from Peking University in 2020 and joined Beijing Foreign Studies University the same year.
Since 2022, Ms. Dong has been seconded to the United Nations Youth Office as a Junior Professional Officer, primarily responsible for the United Nations Youth Leaders Program.
Mr. Han Guowei is the Director of the International Department and Executive Director of the China Great Wall Society. He is also the official representative of the New 7 Wonders Foundation in China and the chief planner of the "<2°C Plan: First Human Expedition Across the Three Poles & Global Climate Change Scientific Exploration Project."
Committed to promoting the Great Wall’s global recognition, Mr. Han has signed MOUs with World Heritage organizations in over ten countries and played a key role in securing the Great Wall’s inclusion in the New7Wonders of the World.
He has organized major international events, including the Great Wall World Folk Song Concerts, the UN Sustainable Development & Green Olympics Programs, and the China Great Wall Hiking Conference. Additionally, he collaborates with Academy Award-winning director Keith Merrill to promote Great Wall culture through film, music, and art, ensuring its preservation and international impact.
Dr. Haokai Zhao is a postdoctoral researcher at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering & Engineering Mechanics from Columbia University. His research focuses on applying Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Data Science, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to advance Sustainable Urban Development. He has received multiple awards in his field, including the IEEE IE Best Short Paper Award and the ASME Floyd Hasselriis Award.
Mr. Jiayi (Ethan) Yu is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and Venture Advisor. He currently serves as the CEO of Quis, INC. He is also a well-known thought leader and influencer in the field with over 1 million social media followers.
Before Quis, INC, Mr. Yu built and successfully exited a Gen-Z social networking app that was later acquired by Total Education, where he subsequently served as Head of Marketing. Mr. Yu has also appeared on numerous television programs and reality shows, earning recognition as one of the most influential young voices in entrepreneurship and venture.
Mr. Yu has been recognized globally for his achievements, receiving the Forbes Global Young Leaders Award, the AACYF Top U25 Award, and the Asia-Pacific Entrepreneur Association Award.
Mr. Yu hold B.S and M.S. from New York University Stern School of Business, with a dual degree in Finance and Accounting. He graduated top in his major and served as the Class President and Judiciary Commitee. He is also a member of Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor Society.
Current Sponsors and Partners (Continuously Updated)
EV.COM
EV.com, the world's first new energy vehicle platform.
CBiBank, Jiangtao
CB International Bank (CBiBank) is a U.S. commercial bank holding a U.S. banking license. It was established in July 2017 and officially obtained its banking license in 2018. Headquartered in Puerto Rico, USA, CBiBank is a member of multiple financial institutions, including the Federal Reserve (ABA), the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT), UnionPay International (UNIONPAY), and the Cross-Border Interbank Payment System (CIPS). Additionally, it is a registered dealer with the National Association of Financial Market Institutional Investors (NAFMII) and a foreign exchange market member of the China Foreign Exchange Trade System (CFETS).
CBiBank is a commercial bank regulated by U.S. banking supervisory authorities (SWIFT code: CBLBPRSJ). It is committed to providing a variety of customized international financial solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individuals expanding their businesses overseas through convenient and efficient online banking services.
iMpact
iMpact delivers results-driven communication services with transparent pricing, tailored to meet clients' specific needs. As experts in cross-cultural communication, our team possesses deep insights into Chinese business logic, enabling seamless localization in overseas markets. Leveraging an extensive global resource network and over a decade of industry experience, we provide professional branding services with 24/7 responsiveness across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Australia. iMpact is committed to empowering Chinese enterprises in expanding into new international markets, offering comprehensive support in brand public relations, legal compliance, human resources, and market entry strategies to facilitate sustainable overseas growth.
HiBee Immigration Consulting (hereinafter referred to as HiBee) is a New York-based immigration consulting firm. For over a decade, our team of seasoned consultants has specialized in H-1B, O-1A, and O-1B visa applications, providing work visa solutions to clients across 20+ diverse industries, including IT, engineering, finance, biotechnology, medical research, and the nonprofit sector.
Amid the declining approval rates for H-1B visas in recent years, our team has successfully secured over 1,000 H-1B approvals for our clients. Additionally, in the past three years alone, we have assisted clients in obtaining more than 150 O-1A/O-1B approvals.
Hibee
Steve Hong
Steve Hong has extensive experience in internal auditing, compliance, and risk management within financial institutions. He has previously worked at Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, the Bank of China New York Branch, and the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China New York Branch. Currently, he serves as a Vice President - Senior Audit Manager at one of the world's top five investment banks, while also dedicating himself to teaching and research in risk management.
In addition, he is a blogger named “New York Little Antenna” on the Xiaohongshu platform, where he shares insights on career, education, and life coaching while actively advocating for sustainable development.
The Final List of the 25 Under 25 Awards
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Zihan Guo | Founder & CEO, Eastern Star Adaptive Skating Program
At just 16, Zihan Guo founded Eastern Star, China’s first adaptive ice skating program for individuals with disabilities. Leading a team of 86, she has organized over 60 events and empowered 35+ participants with intellectual disabilities. In 2024, she staged China’s first-ever adaptive skating performance, challenging stereotypes and sparking national awareness. She has also developed custom adaptive equipment and expanded the initiative to include inclusive dance programs. With future plans to scale into underserved cities and Chapel Hill, USA, Zihan is redefining inclusive sports and advancing multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals—most notably SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.
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Zhang Yu | Founder of GreenGeek
Zhang Yu is a youth sustainability leader and founder of GreenGeek, a global platform empowering young people to lead climate action and green innovation. Through initiatives like Geek Talks, the Urban Sustainability Ambassador Program, and the Sustainability Fresk, she has engaged over 4,500 youth from top global institutions. GreenGeek has hosted 100+ impactful events, bridging education, community, and industry to build sustainable cities, careers, and lifestyles. Zhang’s work aligns with key UN SDGs, especially Climate Action, Quality Education, and Global Partnerships, showcasing the power of youth in shaping a greener, fairer future.
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Qixuan Zhang | Founder & Co-Chair, Chinese Entrepreneurs Organization at Duke (DukeCEO)
At Duke University, where the entrepreneurial ecosystem was once underdeveloped, Qixuan Zhang founded DukeCEO, the university’s first cross-industry, cross-cultural startup community led by Chinese students. In under six months, she built a thriving platform with 90% engagement from Chinese students and extended its reach globally through collaborations with Stanford, Harvard, Microsoft, Tsinghua, and more. DukeCEO connects founders, investors, and institutions via pitch events, policy forums, and global exchange, becoming one of the most influential student-led entrepreneurial networks on the U.S. East Coast. Her work directly advances SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, fostering global collaboration and sustainable innovation.
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Peiyang Li | Sustainable Fashion Designer, iF Design Award Winner
Peiyang Li is a visionary fashion designer redefining sustainability in the global fashion industry. With international showcases at London Fashion Week and Lumiere Runway at Los Angeles Fashion Week, she integrates cutting-edge techniques—like Shima Knitting and Rhino 3D printing—with eco-friendly materials and ethical production. A recipient of the iF Design Award and MUSE Design Award, Peiyang champions fashion as a vehicle for both creative expression and global well-being. Her work supports SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, proving that sustainable design can be both revolutionary and responsible.
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Jitong Yao | Chairman, International Commonweal Support Organization (ICSO)
Jitong Yao leads the International Commonweal Support Organization (ICSO), a global youth-driven team contributing significantly to ESG and B Crop development. As a member of the United Nations Economic and Social Council, ICSO has reached over 100,000 individuals, providing educational opportunities and fostering lifelong learning. Jitong’s leadership aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, ensuring equitable and inclusive education for all. Through cross-border collaborations, he is building a more sustainable, inclusive, and global future, shaping young minds to be future changemakers.
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Fengyu Li | SVP at Columbia CGELA, ASPCA Volunteer, Teach For China Mentor & Ambassador
Fengyu Li is a committed advocate for sustainable development. As SVP of the Columbia Global ESG Leadership Association (CGELA), she leads ESG events, cross-campus projects, and youth initiatives in sustainable urban development and responsible investing. She also volunteers with the ASPCA, fostering stray animals and using data to promote smarter adoption and human-animal coexistence.
Since 2021, she has served as Overseas Recruitment Ambassador for the “Teach For China” program, leading overseas students to teach in Yunnan and mentoring local students. Her work reflects a deep commitment to SDG 11—building bridges of understanding and hope between cities and communities.
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Shuhan Wan | Senior Vice President at CGELA, Youth Leader in Sustainable Innovation
DescriptionAs Senior Vice President at Columbia's Global ESG Leadership Association (CGELA), Shuhan Wan champions sustainability through entrepreneurship and investment. She organizes innovation-sharing events, startup competitions, corporate visits, and summits, while also spearheading the development of the CXO Hub. Her efforts align with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, empowering youth to build cross-sector networks and solve global challenges through collaboration, innovation, and bold leadership. goes here
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Luyi Wang | Executive President & Co-founder, GELA@Penn
As co-founder of the Global ESG Leadership Association at the University of Pennsylvania, Luyi Wang has built a vibrant platform connecting students and professionals to take action on ESG and sustainability. Her work bridges academia and industry, equipping future leaders to address climate challenges. Luyi’s leadership directly advances SDG 13: Climate Action, empowering youth to engage meaningfully in sustainable governance.
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Zhuo Cheng | Bloomberg Financial Reporter; Board Member, AAJA New York
As a financial reporter at Bloomberg and a board member of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) New York Chapter, Zhuo Cheng amplifies underrepresented voices in media. Through initiatives like the Behind the Bylines video series and advocacy in newsroom diversity, she advances SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, creating inclusive narratives in finance and journalism and fostering equitable representation across platforms.
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Yiming Li | Co-founder, Chinese Life Science Association (CLSA)
At only 16, Yiming Li co-founded the Chinese Life Science Association at UC Davis to empower the next generation of life scientists. Through mentorship, networking, and professional development programs, he fosters a sustainable research ecosystem. His mission aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, promoting innovation in life sciences for long-term global health impact.
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Wai Lam Zeng | CEO of Yue Ao International; Composer; Social Activist
Wai Lam Zeng is Macau’s first composer and company founder to win both the TVB Golden Song Award and Tencent Golden Album Award. Through her company, Yue Ao International, she leverages music and film as tools of healing and social empowerment. With over nine years of experience in sustainability advocacy and NGO leadership, Wai Lam blends creativity with purpose—using art to raise awareness, inspire empathy, and mobilize youth for positive change.
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Tongxin Xu | Founder, Pangolin Girls
At just 18, Tongxin Xu co-founded Pangolin Girls, an initiative dedicated to wildlife conservation, female empowerment, and environmental awareness. The project focuses on protecting pangolins—one of the most trafficked species globally—while cultivating young female leadership in sustainability. With outreach to over 100,000 people, Tongxin champions SDG 15: Life on Land, proving that passion and purpose can turn youth into powerful protectors of our planet.
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Yuntian Guo | Co-founder, Carbon Era & Carbon Trail
Yuntian Guo, a UC Berkeley student, co-founded Carbon Era and Carbon Trail to lead scalable climate solutions via carbon asset management and green finance. His work aligns with SDG 13: Climate Action, empowering enterprises to navigate decarbonization through innovative tools in carbon markets and sustainable finance.
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Lecheng Gao | International Director, GELA; Southeast Asia Mangrove Conservation Leader
As International Director of GELA, Lecheng Gao spearheaded mangrove protection in Southeast Asia and sustainable research projects in Thailand. Simultaneously active in luxury branding at Bvlgari, he advances SDG 12: Responsible Consumption, blending sustainability with cultural prestige.
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Huining Yang | Co-founder, Linghuo Youth
Huining Yang founded Linghuo Youth, a social innovation platform empowering youth in smaller cities through education, exploration, and volunteerism. Serving over 100,000 people, she promotes SDG 4: Quality Education and redefines grassroots youth development with purpose and accessibility.
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Zack Ruize Cao | Co-founder, Next Generation Philanthropy Leadership Program
At just 16, Zack Cao co-founded NextGen Philanthropy to nurture future leaders in philanthropy and social entrepreneurship. His work supports SDG 4: Quality Education, creating opportunities for youth to engage in global cooperation, equity, and impact.
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Yutong Wang | Founder, Interact with Nature ESG Club
Yutong Wang founded IWN ESG Club, promoting sustainable lifestyles through immersive ESG experiences—weekend eco-activities, cultural visits, and green enterprise tours. She encourages cross-sector collaboration, driving change through community engagement and ESG innovation.
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Jiayuan Tian | Founder, Tilting Futures China Media Center; Co-founder, OneXplore
Jiayuan Tian leads Tilting Futures China Media Center and co-founded OneXplore, which expands access to international education and climate leadership for youth. His programs reach over 100,000 participants and advance SDG 4: Quality Education, building inclusive global citizenship.
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Xiaokai Zhou | Founder, Fengchao Zhishu Technology
Xiaokai Zhou’s company Fengchao Zhishu delivers sustainable water treatment systems that protect ecosystems and ensure clean water access. His mission supports SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, combining technology with environmental responsibility.
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Junyi Wang | Founder of PetKingTech, AI-Driven Health Innovator
Junyi Wang is the founder of PetKingTech, a cutting-edge biotech startup leveraging AI to revolutionize drug development for animals and humans alike. With a focus on Best-in-Class (BIC) and First-in-Class (FIC) therapies, his mission is to position PetKingTech as a global leader in medical innovation within 3–5 years. His vision embodies SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, fusing technology and compassion to build a healthier future for all species.
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Zihuizhong Ye | Co-founder of PGT+ and Youth Restoring Nature; Student at Princeton University
Zihuizhong Ye is pioneering youth-driven change at the intersection of sustainability, science, and education. As co-founder of Youth Restoring Nature and president of PGT+, she leads community eco-projects and cross-disciplinary research in PFAS, eDNA, and bioremediation. Her efforts champion SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, fostering scalable impact across ecosystems, biotechnology, and public awareness.
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Jiaxing Xu | Team Member, SEE US; Sustainable Fashion and Culture Advocate
Jiaxing Xu explores climate action and cultural heritage through research and community engagement. From researching circular economy and transparent supply chains at ACES to contributing to SEE US during New York Climate Week, he connects fashion, history, and sustainability. His youth-driven activism supports SDG 13: Climate Action, inspiring global awareness through interdisciplinary work.
The Final List of the 30 Under 30 Awards
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Bingqin Wang | Researcher at the National Key Laboratory of Green and Low-Carbon Steel Metallurgy, USTB
As a young Ph.D. researcher at the National Key Laboratory and Institute of Advanced Materials Technology, Bingqin Wang has long been dedicated to green metallurgy, urban infrastructure safety, and sustainable construction. She has led several national projects, advancing global marine corrosion data systems across regions such as the Belt and Road, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, and the Maldives. Her pioneering work in intelligent corrosion protection and eco-friendly alloy technologies actively advances SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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Huaisen Xiao | President, Association of Chinese Students and Scholars at Stanford (ACSSS)
As President of ACSSS, Huaisen Xiao is building an inclusive and impactful platform for Chinese scholars to engage in sustainability. He has led multiple climate-focused forums promoting carbon capture, clean energy, and smart cities. He also represents Stanford’s School of Sustainability and integrates technology and policy to drive green innovation. His work strongly aligns with SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 13: Climate Action.
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Zhuorui Li | Founder of ZLead Silicon Valley, Founding Member of UASDF
Zhuorui Li focuses on youth innovation, green technology, and international collaboration. He launched the Global AI Environmental Impact Report and co-hosted the Harvard Sustainable Development Summit, sparking policy discussions worldwide. Through ZLead, he created the U8 World Youth Innovation Summit, connecting Nobel Laureates, top universities, and researchers to co-build innovation labs. His work promotes SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 9: Innovation and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Global Partnerships.
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Mike Chen | Founder & CEO of Cohere Commerce, Builder of B2B Transparency Standards
Mike Chen founded Cohere Commerce with the vision to establish the world’s first credibility standard for B2B retail. Through an AI-driven data rating platform, the company provides verified insights into brand sustainability and procurement performance. His flagship initiative, the “Retail Trust Index,” has empowered over 100,000 users and significantly improved transparency and responsible sourcing practices across the retail supply chain, advancing SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
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Yuna Shu | Strategic Growth Lead at EnergyFlow, Advocate for Home Energy Efficiency and Green Jobs
As the Strategic Growth Lead at the energy startup EnergyFlow, Yuna Shu leads efforts to drive household energy upgrades through smart tools and a robust network of contractors. Her work reduces carbon emissions and creates green jobs by accelerating energy efficiency adoption. She is committed to enabling every household to participate in climate action, aligning with SDG 13: Climate Action.
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Ivy Li | Co-Founder & COO of ShipSaving, Champion of Smart Logistics and Inclusive Innovation
Ivy Li is the co-founder and COO of ShipSaving, where she drives sustainable transformation in the logistics industry through technology. She led the development of a patented multi-carrier platform that now serves over 100,000 users across the U.S., helping small cross-border e-commerce businesses cut costs and increase efficiency. A strong supporter of minority entrepreneurs and global collaboration, she is advancing SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
Since 2021, she has served as Overseas Recruitment Ambassador for the “Teach For China” program, leading overseas students to teach in Yunnan and mentoring local students. Her work reflects a deep commitment to SDG 11—building bridges of understanding and hope between cities and communities.
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Ning Yu | Founder of Nextar, Secretary-General of Weshine NGO and North American Chinese Educational Foundation, Empowering Youth in Tech, Education, and Cross-Border Collaboration
Ning Yu is a cross-sector changemaker working at the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence. As the founder of Nextar and secretary-general of multiple youth-focused NGOs, he fosters knowledge exchange and global cooperation to address challenges such as education equity and sustainable entrepreneurship. His work bridges generations and industries, empowering young people worldwide and contributing to SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
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Lena Zhang | Co-Founder of Cohere Commerce, Architect of an AI-Powered Green Retail Ecosystem
Lena Zhang is the co-founder of Cohere Commerce, focused on enhancing sustainability and transparency in global B2B procurement through AI technology. She leads the development of real-time brand rating tools that support responsible purchasing, reduce waste, and elevate ethical, sustainable brands. Her data-driven approach to modernizing retail infrastructure supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
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Yue Ma | Researcher at UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN)
As a researcher and project lead at the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, Yue Ma works at the intersection of finance, policy, and environmental action. She leads two international projects: one supporting Uganda’s national development strategy and education finance, and another on China–Latin America sustainable engagement. Her work contributes to SDG 1: No Poverty and fosters global policy cooperation for development.
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Yizun Wang | Project Leader of GUAGAP; Global Volunteer Director at GELA
Yizun Wang founded the Global University-Africa General Assistance Program (GUAGAP), the first initiative of its kind to unite African nonprofits for resource sharing and direct support. He also leads GELA’s Global Volunteering Center, promoting international youth service. His work aligns with SDG 1: No Poverty, creating global youth-driven solutions for sustainable aid.
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Chang Yang | Founder of Sequoia Society PhD Forum, Advocate for Knowledge Equity and Academic Access
Dr. Chang Yang founded the Sequoia Society during the global pandemic in 2020, creating a global, interdisciplinary platform for academic exchange and public knowledge sharing. What began as online lectures supporting overseas Chinese students has evolved into a vibrant academic network covering natural sciences, social humanities, business, and computer science. His commitment to breaking information barriers and empowering young scholars exemplifies the spirit of SDG 4: Quality Education, especially in times of crisis.
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Yingxuan Chen | Founder of Microcosmos Volunteer Community
Yingxuan Chen founded Microcosmos Volunteer Community in 2019 as a sustainable development and youth empowerment platform. By building a public database and sharing over 2,700 global sustainability opportunities, she has reached more than 30,000 followers and garnered 1.5 million views across 100+ institutions. Previously, she accumulated about four years of professional experience in the United Nations system, including organizations such as UNIDO, UNDP and FAO. Her work amplifies youth participation in social innovation, advancing SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
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Wenbo Shan | Founder of Linghuo Youth, Advocate for Youth-Led Social Innovation in Small Cities
Wenbo Shan established Linghuo Youth to break the urban monopoly on public initiatives and bring youth-led action to smaller cities. Through programs in urban exploration, vulnerable group support, rural revitalization, and innovation training, he connects youth to their hometowns with purpose. His work promotes inclusive access to opportunities and strengthens regional equity, in alignment with SDG 4: Quality Education.
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Tuo Wang | Co-founder of eukari, Fashion Entrepreneur Bridging Cultures and Gender Equity
Tuo Wang co-founded eukari, a cultural fashion brand empowering Asian women in the workplace through design and storytelling. By weaving Eastern aesthetics into modern apparel, he aims to build cultural bridges between East and West. His mission embraces SDG 5: Gender Equality, using enterprise and creativity to uplift identity and spark global dialogue.
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Kexin Shi | Postdoctoral Fellow at Oxford University, MUSE Design Award Winner, UN Representative
Dr. Kexin Shi is a cultural leader advancing global governance, education, and design. A winner of the MUSE Design Gold Medal and former representative to the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, she has contributed to major projects at UNESCO, China Construction Bank, and the United Nations. Her efforts amplify youth voices in global decision-making, promoting SDG 4: Quality Education on an international scale.
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Yunjin Liu | Founder of Shanghai Nuts New Energy, Zero-Carbon Energy Advocate
Yunjin Liu leads Shanghai Nuts New Energy in delivering zero-emission solar power solutions through innovation in PV infrastructure. Her work spans R&D, investment, and long-term operations to serve over 10,000 users globally. With a strong commitment to climate goals and energy equity, her work advances SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy by making clean power a practical reality.
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Reng Lian | Z Partner, Good to Nature (GtN), Cross-Sector Environmental Advocate
As Z Partner of GtN, Reng Lian has united 60+ young leaders from 20 industries under the innovative "Nature Partner" model. He fosters public participation in environmental action, sustainable branding, and cross-sectoral collaboration. His leadership supports SDG 13: Climate Action, mobilizing youth to build a culture where being “good to nature” becomes instinctive and systemic.
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Zhezheng Yang | Project Manager, Shanghai Construction Group America, ESG Engineering Leader
As Project Manager at SCG America, Zhezheng Yang leads multimillion-dollar landmark developments such as the Tangram Renaissance Hotel in New York. He oversees project planning, budgeting, bidding, and MEP systems, while also engaging in zoning and business model design. Advocating for ESG and sustainable architecture, he exemplifies SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, helping shape China’s green construction presence abroad.
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Yuman Li | Senior Investment Manager, Hong Kong X Technology Fund, Innovation & Green Finance Advocate
Dr. Yuman Li drives early-stage tech investment at the Hong Kong X Fund, co-founded by Sequoia China's Neil Shen and top university professors. With a focus on AI, biotech, and materials science, she empowers startups to bring sustainable technologies from lab to market. Her work helps position the Greater Bay Area as a global innovation hub, advancing SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
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Yilin Huang | Ph.D. Candidate, University of Texas at Austin, Strategic Sustainability Communicator
Yilin Huang is a doctoral student dedicated to developing research-driven strategies that bridge business and academia in climate communications. She envisions a global platform where enterprises engage transparently with stakeholders and lead environmental change through credible messaging. Her belief in communication as a force for systems change strongly supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
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Yucheng Feng | Founder and President, Global Venture Alumni Leaders Network (GVALN)
Yucheng Feng launched GVALN, a cross-disciplinary, cross-border innovation network linking 60+ student leaders, 63 VC partners, and 150+ startups. With alliances across Ivy League, Oxbridge, and China’s top universities, he organizes summits such as the 2025 Harvard China Forum. His network drives sustainable growth across sectors from education to healthcare, aligning with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
Summit of Global Sustainability Visionaries 2025
On April 7, 2024, the inaugural Global Sustainability Leadership Summit, hosted by the Columbia Global ESG Leadership Association (CGELA), was successfully held in Low Library, the most grand and historically significant library at Columbia University. The CGELA Social Gala, held in the same venue in the evening, marked a perfect conclusion to this sustainability-focused gathering. The summit featured over 23 distinguished speakers from various sustainability subfields, supported by 18 dedicated organizing team members and 30 volunteers and project leaders, attracting an audience of over 240 participants across the summit and gala.
PREVIEW
On April 13, 2025, the annual landmark event in the global sustainability field—Columbia University Global Sustainability Leadership Summit & Global Youth Sustainability Visionaries “30 Under 30 & 25 Under 25” Annual Awards Ceremony—will be grandly held in the Rotunda of Low Memorial Library at Columbia University. This prestigious gathering will bring together top business leaders, academic authorities, industry experts, and pioneering young leaders from around the world to engage in in-depth discussions on cutting-edge sustainability topics, including artificial intelligence, space exploration, advanced manufacturing, biotechnology, new energy, arts and culture, and international collaboration. The event aims to contribute intellectual power and practical insights to global sustainability.
In the evening, we will host an elegant social gala and cocktail reception in the Rotunda of Low Memorial Library, where renowned guests from various fields will engage in thought-provoking discussions with global elites, accompanied by exquisite music and fine wine. This grand gathering is not only a collision of ideas but also a crucial opportunity to drive human civilization toward a sustainable future. Through meaningful exchanges and collaborations, every participant will gain inspiration and co-create a new chapter for sustainability.
We sincerely invite global elites from all sectors to join us in witnessing this high-level event that fosters innovation and advances global sustainability. Whether you are an industry leader with deep expertise or a young visionary committed to driving change, we eagerly await your participation. Engage with world-class scholars, business executives, technology experts, and policymakers, and explore the boundless possibilities of a sustainable future.
Let us gather at the Rotunda of Low Memorial Library, where intellectual exchanges and collaborative advancements will shape the next chapter of sustainability. We look forward to embarking on this journey together and co-creating the future! See you on April 13, 2025!
Business Cooperation: Ms. Fu (Fxyy_99)
Media Cooperation: Ms. Ding (wangchuan017)
Corporate & Social Organization Cooperation: Ms. Yuan (vertcocoyuan)
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