The Youth Empowerment Forum (YEF) 2026, organized by the Center for Global Dialogue & Leadership (CGDL), will convene 250 young leaders in Geneva from 3–6 September 2026. It offers immersive leadership experiences, policy dialogues, expert-led workshops, and institutional visits to the United Nations Headquarters (Palais des Nations) and the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Application Deadline:
- 5 July 2026 (for funded seats)
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- Diplomacy & Global Governance
- International Cooperation & Trade
- Peacebuilding & Humanitarian Action
- Technology & Innovation
- Youth Empowerment & Leadership
Type:
- International Youth Forum | Leadership & Diplomacy Exposure
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be aged 16–46 years.
- Come from any nationality (Global South participation encouraged).
- Be students, professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, or community leaders.
- Demonstrate interest in global change, diplomacy, peacebuilding, and humanitarian efforts.
How are Participants Selected?
- Competitive evaluation for 70 merit-based funded seats.
- Selection based on merit, motivation, and diversity.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Worldwide participation.
Where will the Forum be Taken?
- Geneva, Switzerland
How Many Seats?
- 250 total seats:
- 30 Fully Funded
- 40 Partially Funded
- 80 Forum Access
- 100 Self-Funded
What is the Benefit of the Forum?
- Fully Funded Scholarship Includes:
- Round-trip airfare
- 4-star hotel accommodation
- Meals, breakfasts, coffee breaks
- Full conference access
- Visa support documentation
- Institutional visits (UN & WTO)
- Networking receptions & cultural exchange
- Geneva public transport card
- Global leadership certification
- Chance to win $1,000 USD SDGs Action Grant
- Administrative fee: $16.99 USD applies
- Partially Funded Scholarship Includes:
- All benefits above except airfare
- Administrative fee: $16.99 USD applies
How Long Will the Forum Last?
- 4 days (3–6 September 2026)
How to Apply:
- Visit the official websiteGo to www.thecgdl.org/yef2026 to access the application portal.
- Complete the application formFill in your personal details, background, and motivation statement.
- Upload required documentsAttach your CV, passport copy, and references as specified.
- Pay administrative feeSubmit the $16.99 USD fee to validate your application.
- Submit before deadlineEnsure your application is completed and submitted by 5 July 2026.
- Await selection resultsSuccessful applicants will be notified individually via email.
