From April 28 to April 30, 2026, Ban Ki-moon Foundation (BKMF) CEO Monika Froehler attended the Junior Chamber International (JCI) European Conference under the theme: “Connecting Minds, Creating Futures” in Málaga, Spain. The flagship event brought together more than 1 200 young leaders from across Europe and beyond for impactful training, inspiring conversations, and cultural exchange.
CEO Monika Froehler gave a keynote at the Female Leadership Empowerment Forum on April 29, 2026, highlighting the vital role women play in shaping more peaceful, equitable, and sustainable societies. She also emphasized the BKMF’s commitment to empowering women as key drivers of sustainable development.
On the same day, she had the opportunity to meet Elvin Teo, Secretary General of JCI and BKMF Board Member. They shared updates on both organizations’ works, and she thanked him for continuing to strengthen the BKMF network by connecting the Foundation with new partners and supporters.
In the evening, she attended the official opening of the conference, where she engaged with outstanding partners, including JCI President Alejandra Castillo, AIESEC President Aleyna Sayin, and Secretary-General for Youth Affairs of the United Nations, Dr. Felipe Paullier.
On April 30, 2026, CEO Monika Froehler hosted a BKMF workshop on “Leadership that shapes the world” with over 100 participants. The interactive session encouraged young leaders to reflect on values-driven leadership, global citizenship, and the role of youth in advancing sustainable development. Participants engaged in dynamic discussions, shared innovative ideas, and explored practical ways to create positive change in their communities.
Concluding the inspiring days in Málaga, CEO Monika Froehler served as a judge for the Creative Young Entrepreneur Award. The award rewards young innovators who develop sustainable, impactful business models, offering them a platform to pitch to investors, receive mentorship, and win start up capital of 5 000 USD. Suat Batuhan Esirger from JCI Turkey won this year’s award with his project Forest Guard.
The conference served as a powerful reminder of the shared mission of the BKMF and JCI to empower young leaders, foster global citizenship, and advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It also gave young innovators from all over the world renewed inspiration, practical tools, and a strengthened commitment to action.
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