“Good morning, afternoon, or evening to all our distinguished guests and participants. Welcome to Panel VI: ‘Rural Voices from the Global South.’ In an increasingly urbanized world, it’s crucial that we don’t lose sight of the unique challenges, profound wisdom, and vital contributions of rural communities, particularly those in the Global South. Today, we have the distinct privilege of hearing directly from the front lines – from individuals and representatives who are living and leading change in diverse rural landscapes.
Our goal for this panel is to amplify these voices, to understand their perspectives on sustainable development, climate resilience, economic empowerment, and cultural preservation. We’ll explore the innovative solutions they’re implementing, the obstacles they face, and the collaborative pathways they envision for a more equitable future.
I’m honored to introduce our esteemed panelists: Anuka de Silva, a leading voice in rural community development; representatives from Xiong’an in China, a pioneering new area focused on integrated development; representatives from Kashgar, a vital region in China’s west; representatives from Rikaze (Shigatse) in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, known for its unique high-altitude agricultural practices; and a representative from Brazil, a nation grappling with vast rural diversity, from Amazonian communities to agricultural heartlands.
We’ll begin with brief opening statements from each panelist, setting the stage for a rich discussion. Following that, we’ll delve into specific questions and open the floor for questions from our audience. Let’s begin by hearing from Anuka de Silva.”
Anuka de Silva: Championing Grassroots Innovation
“Thank you. It’s an honor to be here alongside such diverse and insightful voices. My work has primarily focused on empowering grassroots communities to drive their own development agendas. In many parts of the Global South, rural communities are often the most vulnerable to climate change impacts, economic shocks, and limited access to resources. However, they are also incredibly resilient and hold immense traditional knowledge.
I’ve seen firsthand how local innovation, often simple yet profound, can transform lives. Whether it’s community-led water management systems, sustainable agricultural practices passed down through generations, or women’s cooperatives creating new economic opportunities, these solutions emerge from within. My role has been to facilitate, connect, and amplify these efforts, ensuring that external aid and policies are truly demand-driven and culturally appropriate. We must move beyond top-down approaches and truly listen to what rural communities need and how they envision their own progress. Their voices are not just important; they are indispensable for truly sustainable development.”
