New York City, USA
2025 United Nations High Level Political Forum
The HLPF is the main United Nations platform for sustainable development. It has a central role in the follow-up and review of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the global level.
The 2025 HLPF will be held from July 14th to July 23rd under the auspices of the Economic and Social Council in New York City. This year's theme will be “Advancing sustainable, inclusive, science- and evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals for leaving no one behind”.
Sarah Leshob, Head Delegate
Sarah Leshob is a dedicated medical student at the University of Montreal, where she actively pursues her interests in social engagement, public health, sciences, and preventative medicine. Growing up in Montreal in a trilingual environment, with her parents immigrating from North Africa, she developed a unique perspective on diverse cultures and international relations.
Currently, Sarah serves as an executive member of the medical student committee, fostering collaboration among her peers. She previously held the position of VP of academic affairs within her cégep's student association, further demonstrating her leadership skills. Her commitment to community involvement extends to volunteering at sporting events and tutoring, showcasing her diverse interests and dedication to helping others. As a youth advisor for the borough of Saint-Léonard, she addresses pressing issues such as violence prevention and supporting other youth.
With a passion for writing and communication, Sarah has contributed to podcast productions and the student newspaper, sharing insights on important social topics. Looking ahead, she aims to merge her medical training with diplomacy, aspiring to work with global organizations to develop concrete solutions to pressing health challenges worldwide.
Nathanael Ip, Communications Coordinator
Nathanael Ip is studying Physiology and Anthropology at the University of Alberta. As an aspiring health equity scholar, he is passionate about tackling the mental health epidemic, chronic disease crisis, and social inequity from a sustainable and intersectional perspective.
Nathanael has been a vocal advocate for SDG 3 and SDG 5 across multiple levels, serving on the University of Alberta Dean of Students’ World Hello Day Working Group, the British Columbia Ministry of Health’s BC Health and Wellness Youth Advisory Council, and the youth advisory council of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) - Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health. He has also interned with the CIHR Institute of Gender and Health, where he worked to increase equity in health research.
Through his involvement with the Social Epidemiology and Metabolic Outcomes lab at the University of British Columbia, Nathanael has co-authored multiple papers focused on holistic health and equity. He also leads MusicXConnect, an organisation aiming to empower marginalised youth through music. In his free time, Nathanael enjoys rock climbing and playing in a string ensemble. As a strong proponent for empowering youth, Nathanael is honoured to serve as a voice for young Canadians across the country.
Esther Nnorom, Engagement Coordinator
Esther is a value-driven leader and grassroots changemaker passionate about equipping the youth of the future. She serves as the Co-Founder & Executive Director of two nonprofit organizations - Kucheli Foundation and Help From Above Canada, where she is at the forefront of creating transformative community-based and goal-oriented social development projects for youth and children across the globe. In 2023/2024, under her leadership, the organizations as mentioned earlier reached out to over 3000 children and teenagers across multiple East and West African cities. Furthermore, her role as an Operations Manager at Amazon Logistics has exposed her to leading cross-functional teams while working with diverse individuals. Esther is a First Class graduate of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Prince Edward Island. She is currently enhancing her capacity for global impact by pursuing a Masters in Public Policy and Global Affairs at the University of British Columbia. Esther's educational pursuits complement her hands-on experience, as well as enrich her strategic approach, thus equipping her with the analytical tools needed to drive sustainable change and advocate effectively for the populations served.
Catherine Ampleman Duchesne, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Coordinator
Catherine Ampleman-Duchesne is currently pursuing a joint master's degree in International Studies at Université Laval and Sciences Po Bordeaux, with a major in international security. Passionate about international relations, human rights and diplomacy, Catherine has participated in several simulations, including the National Model United Nations (NMUN) in New York in 2023. This experience significantly familiarized her with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UN diplomatic processes. She then took on the role of Vice-President of Treasury for the same university delegation, where she oversaw delegates and the budget for participation in NMUN in 2024.
Finally, her professional experience in several positions within the Quebec National Assembly has sharpened her understanding of legislative and democratic processes, as well as her commitment to civic education. As a result, Catherine is determined to encourage greater involvement of young people in contemporary issues. She looks forward to defending the interests of young Canadians on the international stage and contributing to discussions on sustainable development and global security.