Following initial expressions of interest from leading cities in Australia, China, South Africa, Peru and the United States, the One Young World founders confirmed today that the bids from the cities of Pittsburgh, Pa., and Johannesburg, South Africa, have been shortlisted as the two finalists in the running to host One Young World 2012.
The winner will be announced on Saturday, Sept. 3, at the closing ceremony of the One Young World Summit in Zurich.
David Jones, co-founder, One Young World, and Havas global CEO said, “The strength of these bids is testament to the growing profile of One Young World and the fact that it is developing into the foremost global forum for young future leaders.”
This year, more than 1,200 young leaders under the age of 30 are attending the summit, representing 170 countries. They will meet to discuss some of the big challenges facing mankind and will create resolutions regarding their actions to address these issues.
Unlike any other event in the world, One Young World gives young delegates the kind of media platform and access to world figures ordinarily afforded only to those who lead countries and corporations. The summit facilitates global debate around the ideas and resolutions of the delegates, and the consequent initiatives and action are monitored and recorded.
Kate Robertson, One Young World co-founder and U.K. group chairman of Euro RSCG, added: “The bids from both Pittsburgh and Johannesburg were exceptional. They showed an unhesitating commitment to the ethos of One Young World in championing young people and the vision to create a formidable event in 2012.”
