Inaugural goalkeepers event focus on fight against poverty and disease

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, former US President Barack Obama are among the high-profile guests to join forces with Bill and Melinda Gates at the inaugural Goalkeepers event on Sept 20 to highlight world progress and outline a path to a more prosperous, healthy and just future.

"The Sustainable Development Goals are as ambitious as they are essential," said Trudeau.

"It's up to all of us to stand up for women's rights, make sure women's voices are heard, and break down stereotypes that hold women back."

And the best way to achieve equality is to directly support women around the world. The further we push ourselves toward gender equality the faster we will achieve the SDGs. It's that simple. A fairer, more sustainable world is within our reach – but only if women play a leading role," he said.

Obama believed in his speech that people can make a difference and "all of us ought to try".

"That's what I believe, that's what the ‘Goalkeepers' believe, and I am certain that if we all keep pushing forward, the world will make even more progress in the years to come," he said.

Speakers shared stories of leadership and innovative solutions that have helped reduce poverty and child deaths during sessions themed on women and girls, purpose-driven technology and global health.

"The leaders and heroes who shared their stories today remind us that progress is possible, but not inevitable. It takes effective leadership and unwavering focus. All of us have a role to play in achieving the Global Goals," said Melinda Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The events has seen real people behind the positive changes show up to share their stories with the audience. They include clinic workers from Africa, global health experts and ordinary campaigners. Their stories inspired the audience to work together to help achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – ending extreme poverty and inequality and combatting climate change by 2030.

"We are at a defining moment in the history of global development where we can either collectively show resolve and get the job done, or turn our backs on human suffering and inequity," said Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "I believe when people know about the progress we've already made, they'll be inspired to finish the job."