Reflections on the G20 YEA Summit in Moscow – Derek Major

Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you could have a voice of change? What if it meant having a voice of change along with 400 others that carried the same message as you? What if that message meant a profound shift in the policies as they impact you as a youth?

The 2013 edition of the G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance really reinforced all of the above and it really was an incredible experience to be a part of. I have to admit, travelling to Russia was something of an adventure for me as I really wasn’t sure what to expect from the country. I can tell you this: Moscow is awesome. Every negative preconceived notion that you may have heard about Russia really isn’t true, at least not from what we saw while we were there. Many of my fellow delegates spent more time than I touring around the city including taking the subway, which I hear, was magnificent. Regardless, my point here is that if you were ever curious about Russia, I whole-heartedly encourage you to visit. I’m sure many of us that participated could set you up with some of our new friends to show you around too.

I was part of the G8 group that participated in the initial G8 YES event in Stresa, Italy back in 2009, and without a doubt it has come a really long way. Between the breakout sessions, to the number of countries (twelve more!), and the number of networking opportunities, it was really great. A lot of the theme focused on not only creating a more impactful message about youth entrepreneurship in general but also doing business in Russia. As you can imagine, entrepreneurship really is in its infancy in the country but are they ever taking some incredible steps to make sure the world is noticing them. Skolkovo is the new innovation centre being developed in the country and it is quite a site to visit and quite a vision to look forward to. There is a lot of international support being concentrated in this centre and there really are some interesting concepts about bringing our businesses to the country.

The entire event was an incredible opportunity and experience for me personally and I’m sure for every one that attended. As Canadians I think it’s important that we take a leadership position in the growth of youth entrepreneurship in our country but also help guide and set an example for countries around the world. Now that we are back, it’s time for us to take the next steps to really make an impact in our homeland.

By Derek Major, G20 Young Entrepreneurs’ Alliance Summit Canadian Delegate and Managing Partner & Chief Executive Officer at Eligeo CRM Inc.