The series of events leading up to the 7th 2025 National Assembly (Munas) of APEKSI in Surabaya City began with a breakthrough event focusing on the strategic role of the younger generation: Youth City Changers. The event, which ran for two full days, from 6-7 May 2025, served as a dynamic kick-off. Attended by youth representatives and communities from all APEKSI member cities, Youth City Changers functioned as a vital platform to hear, engage, and integrate the aspirations and innovative ideas of young people into the broader Munas agenda. The opening of this event series underscores APEKSI’s commitment that the future of Indonesian cities must be planned collaboratively with young leaders and change agents.
Throughout its two days, Youth City Changers featured a series of activities designed to spur creativity and tangible contributions. The sessions included in-depth Idea Exchanges, practical skills workshops, and discussion forums with city leaders. The main focus was on how youth can offer innovative solutions to crucial urban issues, such as public services, environmental sustainability, and social inclusivity. The outcomes and recommendations resulting from this youth event will then be carried forward into the agenda of the 7th 2025 APEKSI National Assembly Sessions, ensuring that the fresh energy and vision of this generation of city changers become a major consideration in formulating APEKSI’s policies and work programs for the upcoming period.