UNAIR NEWS – Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) student once again achieves international recognition. Thania Audrey, a student of the Banking and Finance Study Program, Faculty of Vocational Studies UNAIR, won three international awards at the Global Youth Innovation Summit (GYIS) Batch 12, which brought together young people from various countries on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.
The Global Youth Innovation Summit (GYIS) is an international forum organized by Pemuda Mendunia in collaboration with International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and Universiti Malaya (UM). The forum serves as a platform for youth from different countries to exchange innovative ideas on global issues, technology, sustainability, and leadership, aiming to encourage collaboration and strengthen the capacity of young generations.
SDGs-based innovation
Audrey participated in GYIS with the motivation to broaden her international perspective while sharpening her ability to present ideas in a global forum. “I wanted to learn directly from young people with diverse cultural backgrounds and perspectives, while also testing my ability to present ideas and innovations at the international level,” Audrey said. In her preparation, Audrey conducted in-depth research, organized her project presentation systematically, and practiced her public communication skills.
During GYIS Batch 12, Audrey participated in a series of activities, including international seminars, panel discussions, leadership workshops, networking sessions, and cultural exchanges. One of the main agendas was the GYIS Youth Project Presentation, which provided a platform for delegates to present their innovative projects.
In the session, Audrey and the SweetNfavoury Team, including Dhia Jinan, a student of the Traditional Medicine Study Program, Faculty of Vocational Studies UNAIR, presented a project titled “Small Treats, Big Opportunities.” The project is a social initiative that focuses on empowering young women from low-income families through the development of home-based culinary microenterprises. The initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
“We want to create a supportive ecosystem so that young women can achieve economic independence through sustainable home-based culinary businesses,” Audrey explained.
For her active contribution and the quality of the presented project, Audrey won 1st Place Winner of Most Inspirational Leader, Most Favourite Team Award, and 3rd Place Winner of the SDGs Project Innovation Presentation. “These awards motivate me to continue developing myself and bring this international experience back to the academic environment of the Faculty of Vocational Studies UNAIR,” Audrey said.
Author: Dheva Yudistira Maulana
Editor : Khefti Al Mawalia
