Kickstarting 2026: JCIxBan Ki-moon Foundation Strengthens Strategic Ties in Paris
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PARIS — Setting a decisive tone for the year ahead, JCI Secretary General Elvin Teo joined global leaders in Paris this past January for a pivotal Board Meeting of the newly renamed Ban Ki-moon Foundation.
The engagement, held mid-January at the historic Sorbonne University, served as a strategic launchpad for 2026, reinforcing the vital link between JCI’s young leaders and the highest levels of global governance.
A New Identity for a Long-Standing Partner
A key outcome of the summit was the official transition of our partner organization from the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens to the Ban Ki-moon Foundation. This evolution signals a deepened commitment to long-term sustainable impact—a vision that JCI is honored to support directly through its seat on the Board.
During the session, the Secretary General worked alongside fellow Board Members to validate the Foundation’s 2026–2028 roadmap, ensuring that youth empowerment remains central to the global development agenda for the coming years.
Highlights from the Paris Summit
Beyond the boardroom, the January visit facilitated high-level dialogue across sectors, laying the groundwork for future collaboration:
Health Innovation: The delegation explored the frontiers of medical science at the Paris Brain Institute and the UNESCO World Brain Health Forum.
Global Diplomacy: JCI participated in expert roundtables at the prestigious Institut de France.
Honoring a Legacy: The week culminated in a moving ceremony at the Sorbonne, where H.E. Ban Ki-moon was bestowed a Doctor Honoris Causa, recognizing a lifetime dedicated to peace and human rights.
Moving Forward
Reflecting on the successful engagement, JCI is energized to translate these high-level strategic discussions into grassroots action throughout 2026. Our continued presence on the Board ensures that the voices of enterprising young leaders are heard where it matters most.
