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Global Social Development Innovations

2024 Global Research Symposium
“Engaging Diverse Perspectives to Improve Inclusive Youth Development”

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
October 7-9, 2024

Join the Global Social Development Innovations (GSDI) research center at the UNC School of Social Work for the 2024 Global Research Symposium! In 2017, GSDI celebrated its launch by hosting a global research symposium that featured researchers and practitioners that aligned with one of GSDI’s primary goals: to improve the lives of vulnerable and marginalized youth around the globe. This year, GSDI is excitedly expanding this event by including more sessions and speakers, as well as introducing a virtual attendance option.

This event will feature experts who address youth issues through a socio-ecological approach, aiming to create enabling environments for young people. It will also highlight efforts to improve youth health, economic, social, and psychological outcomes worldwide. The three-day symposium will include a variety of engaging plenaries, research panel presentations, and workshops across three tracks: Health Equity, Economic Security, and Holistic Education.

On Monday, October 7th, GSDI will kick off the symposium with an opening celebration hosted by the Dean of the UNC School of Social work, Dr. Ramona Denby-Brinson. This evening includes a welcoming reception with drinks followed by a catered dinner, a selection of featured speakers, a keynote address from world-renowned speaker Dr. Don Operario, and dance performances from UNC student organizations.

Tuesday, October 8th and Wednesday, October 9th will include plenary and panel presentations from researchers and practitioners engaged in innovative and impactful global work, hands-on workshops with UNC faculty and staff, and poster presentations from some of UNC’s top student researchers. All in-person participants will have access to breakfast and an afternoon refreshment bar, as well as a catered lunch featuring one of our esteemed plenary speakers.

We are excited to see you at this very special event this October.