Model Commonwealth Summit 2025: A Landmark Achievement in Diplomacy, Youth Leadership and Network

Accra, Ghana — September 20, 2025

The Model Commonwealth Summit 2025, held from September 18 to 20 at the Accra International Conference Centre, concluded with remarkable success, underscoring the essential role of youth engagement in shaping the future of youth diplomacy in the Commonwealth. This year’s summit convened young leaders to represent 56 Commonwealth member states, facilitating diplomacy, collaborative dialogue, and innovative approaches to address pressing global challenges.

The theme of this year’s summit, “Innovating for Humanity: Pioneering Sustainable Development through New Knowledge,” aligns closely with the global need of young people to foster constructive dialogue among emerging leaders, aiming to redesign solutions that effectively tackle contemporary socio-economic and political challenges worldwide.

Day 1

Opening Ceremony

The summit commenced with an inspiring opening ceremony, featuring an address by Martinson Yeboah, Executive Director of the Model Commonwealth Summit. He welcomed delegates with a passionate speech, emphasizing the significance of the summit as a legacy project of the Commonwealth Year of Youth. Mr. Yeboah encouraged participants to embrace diverse ideas and build connections throughout the event.

The opening ceremony included speeches from esteemed guests, such as Mr. Hooman Nouruzi, Political Counsellor at the British High Commission in Ghana; Mr. Peter Anum, Executive Director of the Head of State Awards Scheme; Osman Abdulai Ayariga Esq., CEO of the National Youth Authority; Mr. Samuel Gyedu-Brefo, TVET Project Manager, British Council Ghana, Hon. Divine Edem Kwadzodeh, Policy Advisor, Education Policy and Advocacy, All-Africa Students Union (AASU), Mr. Carl Ampah, National Program Officer, UNESCO Ghana, and the representative of the H.E. Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland, Barbados Resident High Commissioner to Ghana. They urged delegates to recognize the numerous opportunities available for young people in the Commonwealth, including scholarships, youth representation, volunteerism, and community development partnerships.

Committee Breakout Sessions

Following the declaration of the 13th Commonwealth Youth Forum in 2024, delegates engaged in focused discussions within committees on its topics in areas including: Resilient Democracies; Resilient Environment and Sustainability; Resilient People and Societies; and Resilient Economies.

Regional bloc meetings were also held for Africa, Asia, Pacific, Caribbean and America, and Europe.

Day 2

Continuation of Committee and Regional Bloc Meetings, Mentorship and Diplomacy Dialogue session

Day 2 began with the continuation of the committees and regional bloc meetings, providing delegates with further opportunities to collaborate and refine their ideas. Delegates concluded the committee and bloc sessions with resolutions and reports communicating their informed positions on the topics for discussions.

This was followed by a Mentorship and Diplomacy Dialogue Session, where distinguished speakers addressed critical issues affecting youth today.

Professor Lord Mawuko-Yevugah, Senior Lecturer in International Relations and Diplomacy at GIMPA, discussed “The Effects of Current Multilateral Developments in Diplomacy and Global Geopolitics on Emerging Youth Leaders,” emphasizing the need for young leaders to navigate the evolving landscape of global diplomacy.

Mr. Eric Kwesi Taylor, CEO of Penyman Group Limited, spoke on “Leadership and Innovation for Addressing Human Needs,” urging youth to leverage their creativity to drive meaningful change.

Ms. Diana Sey, Partner Director at AFS Intercultural Exchange Programs, focused on “Developments in Youth Opportunities and International Engagement,” highlighting the importance of intercultural understanding in fostering global citizenship.

Mr. Mikdad Mohammed, Senior Economic and Commercial Advisor at the UAE Embassy in Ghana, emphasized the need for youth involvement in governance and democratic processes.

Cocktail Reception and Awards Ceremony

The evening of Day 2 concluded with a lively Cocktail Reception and Awards Ceremony held at the Residence of the British High Commissioner to Ghana. The event celebrated exceptional contributions to youth leadership and emphasized the importance of fostering networks among delegates, guests, and members of the diplomatic community. The Special Guest of Honor, Mrs. Emelia Hanson, Head of HR and Administration at INLAKS Ghana, encouraged delegates to enhance their employability skills essential for effective problem-solving and sustainable development.

Day 3

Industrial Visit and Excursion

Delegates participated in an enriching industrial visit to Zonda Tec Ghana Limited, a leader in technology and manufacturing, where they observed innovative production processes and engaged with industry professionals. This was followed by an excursion to The National Museum of Ghana in Accra, where delegates explored the nation’s rich history and cultural heritage through diverse artifacts and guided tours. These experiences enhanced their understanding of Ghana’s industrial landscape and cultural significance while fostering valuable connections among participants, aligning with the summit’s goals of holistic learning and collaboration.

Summit outlook

The Model Commonwealth Summit 2025 has established a new benchmark for youth engagement, showcasing the potential of young leaders to drive positive change. As delegates return to their communities, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and a wealth of knowledge to effect change. In closing, Mr. Yeboah reflected on the summit’s impact with a poignant quote from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II:
“The Commonwealth bears no resemblance to the empires of the past. It is an entirely new conception built on the highest qualities of the spirit of man; friendship, loyalty, and the desire for freedom and peace.”

The summit was not merely an event; it was a celebration of youth leadership and the collaborative spirit of the Commonwealth. With its successful conclusion, the Model Commonwealth Summit 2025 has reinforced the vital importance of youth voices in shaping the future of global governance and sustainable development.