New York, 21 September 2025 — The UN Global Compact Network Indonesia (IGCN), in collaboration with the Columbia Indonesia Society (CIS) and the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in New York, convened a dynamic dialogue titled “Future Pathways: Crafting Careers & Leadership for Indonesia’s Economic Transformation.”
The event brought together students, young professionals, CEOs, and innovators to explore how Indonesia’s next generation can play a pivotal role in realizing the nation’s 2045 vision — one that aspires for inclusive, resilient, and sustainable prosperity.
Key Speakers and Insights
Opening Remarks: H.E. Winanto Adi, Consul General of Indonesia in New York
Remarks: Y. W. Junardy, President, UN Global Compact Network Indonesia
Remarks: M. Hanif Firnanda, Columbia Indonesia Society
Keynote Address: Dr. Leonardo A. A. Teguh Sambodo, Deputy for Food, Natural Resources, and Environment, Ministry of National Development Planning (Bappenas)
CEO Insight: Tony Wenas, President Director, PT Freeport Indonesia
Introduction: Andi P. Rahim, Secretary General & Acting Executive Director, UN Global Compact Network Indonesia
Shaping the Leaders of a Sustainable Future
Hosted in a “human café” format, the dialogue encouraged open, intergenerational conversations on how Indonesian students abroad can align their academic and professional pathways with the country’s green and circular economy transition.
The session brought together over 80 Indonesian graduate students from top U.S. universities, 20 young innovators from the SDG Innovation Accelerator, and C-level executives attending the UN Global Compact Leaders Summit. Participants discussed themes of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), green jobs, purpose-driven leadership, and global education—all vital components for shaping Indonesia’s future-ready workforce.
Indonesia’s Green Growth Vision
Indonesia’s economic roadmap to 2045 envisions 8% growth driven by a nature-positive economy, unlocking USD 540 billion in investments by 2040. This transformation could create 19.4 million new green jobs, requiring a new generation of leaders equipped with expertise in sustainability, innovation, and responsible resource management.
As highlighted by the speakers, collaboration between academia, the private sector, and the global Indonesian diaspora will be crucial to ensuring that Indonesia’s growth is both inclusive and sustainable.
Connecting Talent, Leadership, and Innovation
Through this interactive dialogue, IGCN and its partners aim to bridge global talent with national priorities, fostering a shared commitment to sustainable development. The event underscored that Indonesia’s journey toward its 2045 vision depends not only on economic progress but also on strong, ethical, and future-oriented leadership.
By empowering Indonesia’s youth and global changemakers, the “Future Pathways” dialogue serves as a catalyst for transformative action—paving the way for a greener, more resilient, and equitable Indonesia.
