Applications are now open for the 2026 AFS Youth Assembly Program in Geneva, Switzerland

Ednah Carrick October 31, 2025

0 1,429 2 minutes read

Closing Date: 31 December 2025

Applications are now open for the 2026 AFS Youth Assembly Program in Geneva, Switzerland

The moment you’ve been waiting for is here! Applications for the 2026 AFS Youth Assembly Program are officially OPEN.

For the first time ever: AFS is going to Geneva, Switzerland! Are you coming?

The AFS Youth Assembly (August 12-14, 2026) is the premier platform connecting young leaders (ages 18-35) with international innovators and decision-makers to accelerate the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Join hundreds of delegates for three days of high-level dialogue and skill-building. This is your chance to secure your spot among the next generation of global citizens.

About AFS

The AFS Youth Assembly is a unique platform that cultivates a global network of young leaders and changemakers through exchange, education, action and impact. It empowers the next generation of leaders with opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, trailblazers, and influencers, develop global competence and critical skills, and transform their vision for a better future through innovative action.

The Youth Assembly was founded in 2004 by the Friendship Ambassadors Foundation (FAF), a not-for-profit organization with a history that dates back to 1958. FAF and its flagship program, the Youth Assembly, are now a part of AFS Intercultural Programs.

This is a program of AFS International and is not administered by AFS-USA. AFS-USA is a separate legal entity from AFS Intercultural Programs/AFS International and is not a legal affiliate thereof.

Program Overview

The 31st AFS Youth Assembly invites passionate young leaders aged 18-35 to join a global community of changemakers. This event goes beyond dialogue—it’s about action. Through engaging sessions, networking with peers from around the world, and ideation challenges, you’ll gain the skills and connections to create lasting impact, guided by experts and practitioners. Be part of this transformative experience!

Experience the three conference days filled with engaging sessions, opportunities to learn from global leaders, and network with your peers from around the world. Join us at the 31st Session of the AFS Youth Assembly on August 12-14, 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland!

Curious to learn more? Join AFS free webinar on November 3, 2025 at 9 AM ET.

The AFS Youth Assembly Advisory Council’s dynamic leaders will discuss youth priorities and the concept of the 31st AFS Youth Assembly, which will be held on August 12-14, 2026 in Geneva. Results from the Global Survey will be presented where hundreds of youth voices were heard on setting the agenda for the AFS Youth Assembly.

Eligibility Requirements

Delegates must be 18-35 years old
Proven track record of leadership experience, school, or community involvement
Interest in global affairs, sustainable development, and youth issues
Proficient in English (Intermediate Level)

The AFS Youth Assembly Program includes:

Keynote Talks

Get inspired by today’s trailblazers and influencers

Thematic Discussions

Interact with panels of experts and leaders in various areas of inquiry

Skill-building Workshops

Engage in in-depth discussions or activities to develop practical skills

AFS Award for Young Global Citizens Finals

Finalists pitch their ideas to distinguished panel of judges for funding

Networking

Make connections with young leaders from all over the world

Awards

Find out the winners of the Outstanding Youth Delegate Award

Field Visits

Get an inside look into the working of global and national institutions and organizations

Special Events

Make new friends or collaborators through special dinners, CultureFest and more

Apply as a group delegation

Whether you are an international organization/agency; corporation or NGO; school, college or university; or an International Youth Network, sending a delegation to the Youth Assembly is an amazing opportunity!