UNGA80, New York (2025)
Vivacity Development successfully hosted its UNGA80 side event, “Powering Possibilities: The Future of Work Through Strategic Collaboration,” on September 22, 2025, at the Cornell University ILR School NYC Conference Center. The event brought together over 150 policymakers, business leaders, innovators, and youth voices from across sectors to explore how collaboration can unlock inclusive and sustainable opportunities in the rapidly evolving world of work.
Keynote Addresses:
– Assemblyman Clyde Vanel delivered a keynote address, highlighting the interconnected nature of the global economy and the importance of building bridges across policy, technology, and innovation to ensure equitable growth.
– Engr. Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola, Managing Director/CEO of Vivacity Development, emphasized the urgency of preparing today’s workforce for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
Panel Discussions:
Panel Discussions:
The event featured panel conversations on themes such as:
– Digital disruption
– Partnerships
– Inclusive innovation
– Gender equity
– Development of green and digital skills
Panelists included:
– Christina Blacken (The New Quo)
– Lee Bonvissuto (Present Voice)
– Dr. Amb. Sonia Agu (Sapio Works)
– Libby Farmer
– Vidya More (Capgemini)
– Chrissy Ramkarran (Ogilvy)
– Deepti Sharma (FoodtoEat)
– Omarianna Jones
– Jeff Child
Key Takeaways:
Deepti Sharma emphasized that real innovation happens at the intersection of diverse perspectives, and highlighted the importance of:
– Prioritizing small, diverse businesses in procurement
– Using storytelling to break down barriers
– Creating shared access and opportunity through digital tools
– Recognizing inclusion as a strategy, not charity
Support and Partnership:
The program was proudly supported by the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), with a goodwill message from Mrs. Feyisayo Alayande, Executive Secretary, highlighting LSETF’s strides in driving entrepreneurship, skills development, and employment opportunities in Lagos State, Nigeria.