Hugh Evans, Global Citizen CEO, emphasizes the importance of nurturing the sense of urgency that younger generations bring to solving international challenges. Evans points out that many of the world’s most influential movements were initiated by young people. For example, Martin Luther King Jr. was 34 when he delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. Nelson Mandela co-founded the ANC Youth League at 26. Malala Yousafzai gave her first protest speech at just 11 years old. William Wilberforce entered politics at 21. Evans spoke with The Associated Press before the recent Global Citizen Festival in New York, an event headlined by artists like Post Malone and Doja Cat. The festival raised over $1 billion in commitments to combat extreme poverty and formed a partnership with FIFA. Evans highlighted the challenges of the current global landscape, including the increasing poverty rates and the looming threat of climate change. Over 70% of Global Citizen members are Gen Z, and the organization aims to empower young people through its app to advocate for impactful policy changes. The AP’s coverage of philanthropy and nonprofits is supported by The Conversation US and Lilly Endowment Inc. For more philanthropy news, visit https://apnews.com/hub/philanthropy.