Apply now for the Transformative Global Leadership Challenge 2025 for young leaders worldwide

Ednah Carrick October 11, 2025

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Closing Date: 2 November 2025

Apply now for the Transformative Global Leadership Challenge 2025 for young leaders worldwide

A Transformative Experience

The Global Leadership Challenge (GLC) aims to help emerging leaders grow in the wisdom and character required for responsible leadership that makes a real difference in the world — leadership that does not simply seek to fulfil personal ambition but advances the common good. GLC is a joint initiative of the University of Oxford and the St. Gallen Symposium, supported by partners.

From 11–15 December 2025, the GLC will focus on challenges defined by its partners. Participants will work on real-world issues and co-create impact projects, addressing them through the lens of responsible leadership and sustainability.

Vision

GLC aims to empower emerging leaders to grow in the wisdom and character required for leadership that makes a difference in the world. At the heart of every remarkable leader lies an unwavering foundation of character – a steadfast commitment to making the world a better place. Through this platform, GLC aim to guide and inspire young leaders on their journey, helping them build the skills and values necessary to shape a better future for all

GLC Members

The Global Leadership Challenge 2025 will convene 100 young leaders selected through an open application process. Applicants will be evaluated on their passion for engaging with complex global challenges. GLC is looking for a diverse group of postgraduate students and young professionals who are ready to rise to the challenges of our time and develop themselves as the responsible leaders our world desperately needs now. GLC Members can participate virtually from around the world.

What’s in it for you?

Become part of a diverse global community of young, responsible leaders
Engage with world-renowned academics and senior business and policy leaders
Develop action projects that address some of the most pressing global challenges using design thinking principles
Learn to lead in a way that not only advances personal ambition but actively seeks the wider good of society
Earn an official Certificate of Achievement
Receive bespoke leadership training and mentorship offered by the Oxford Character Project
Win an invitation to attend the 55th St Gallen Symposium in May 2026 as Leaders of Tomorrow, if your team is one of the top performing teams.

Eligibility criteria

You are a student (currently enrolled in a Masters or a PhD programme) or a young professional (aged between 21-30 years).
You have finished your undergraduate studies.
You have already demonstrated your commitment to responsible leadership through extra-curricular activities and/or work experience.
You are committed to investing around five half-days from 11-15 December 2025 for the GLC.
Active participation in GLC sessions is mandatory to receive a Certificate of Achievement.

GLC welcome applications from around the world and from all academic disciplines.

Preparation – What You Need

1. Personal Information

Please be ready to provide your personal information, including your address, email, and other contact details.

2. Documents

CV (PDF)
Recent Portrait Picture (JPEG or PNG)
Proof of enrollment (students only) – PDF

3. Questions

Keynote choice: Suggest a keynote speaker who could inspire global leaders to act responsibly.
Your message: Record a video (max. 40 seconds, in English) inspiring global leaders to practice Responsible Leadership.
Your action: Share one concrete example (max. 50 words) of how you personally put Responsible
Leadership into practice.