The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) India has announced a strategic partnership with Collective Artists Network India Pvt. Ltd. to elevate youth engagement in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This collaboration harnesses the influence of media, entertainment, digital platforms, and youth-driven culture to ignite impactful conversations around critical global issues — from climate action and gender equality to poverty alleviation and inclusive growth.
By mobilizing the voices of young content creators, actors, athletes, and artists, the initiative aims to build a powerful youth-led movement in support of the SDGs — the global blueprint for a more equitable, sustainable, and peaceful world by 2030.
“This partnership is a step forward in empowering young people to become active change-makers,” said Dr. Angela Lusigi, Resident Representative, UNDP India. “Across India, youth are not only raising their voices for change — they are leading it. Whether it’s championing climate action, advocating for gender equity, or creating inclusive opportunities, their work is shaping the future. With Collective Artists Network, we can amplify these efforts, ensuring that stories of youth leadership resonate from urban centres to rural communities.”
The first collaboration under this initiative featured a three-part digital docuseries produced with Under 25, one of India’s largest student communities. Highlighting the stories of young changemakers, the series reached millions online and featured the support of actor and UNDP India Youth Champion, Sanjana Sanghi.
Bhumi Pednekar, actor and UNDP India National Advocate for the SDGs, emphasized the initiative’s relevance: “This is a game-changing moment. Today’s youth are informed, passionate, and committed to building a better world. Through this partnership, we are creating a platform where their vision and energy can drive sustainable action and impact at scale.”
“At Collective, we believe storytelling is a powerful tool to drive real change. Partnering with UNDP allows us to channel the voice and influence of India’s youth toward causes that support building a future rooted in purpose, equity, and sustainability,” said Dhruv Chitgopekar, Co-founder, Collective Artists Network, reinforcing the company’s commitment to using storytelling and influence to shape a sustainable and inclusive future.” reinforcing the company’s commitment to using storytelling and influence to shape a sustainable and inclusive future.
Looking ahead, the partnership plans to engage OTT platforms, filmmakers, brands, and leading influencers in campaigns and events aimed at accelerating awareness and action for the SDGs nationwide.