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Call for Applications for the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 for young changemakers (40 fully-funded seats available)

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Closing Date: 25 June 2025

Call for Applications for the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 for young changemakers (40 fully-funded seats available)

Leading the Conversation on Global Youth Empowerment

In alignment with the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027, which emphasizes youth engagement, empowerment, and cross-border connections, and the United Nations’ Youth2030 Strategy, aimed at guiding the UN system to empower young people to realize their full potential and stand up for their rights, the Youth Empowerment Forum is designed to equip young changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and networks to drive meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.

Join YEF in Geneva, the heart of international diplomacy, for an immersive 4-day event featuring interactive workshops, policy dialogues, and high-level panel discussions with global experts. A key highlight is the exclusive study trip to the United Nations Headquarters, where participants will witness diplomacy in action. Additionally, attendees will embark on a guided visit to CERN to explore cutting-edge exhibitions to understand groundbreaking scientific discoveries shaping the future of technology and innovation. The program will also include networking opportunities over traditional Swiss cuisine, offering a taste of the country’s rich culinary heritage.

Forum Structure: What to Expect?

The Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 is designed as an interactive and engaging platform, featuring:

Workshops

Hands-on sessions on leadership, policymaking, and global challenges.

Panel Discussions

High-level conversations with diplomats, policymakers, and experts.

Policy Dialogues

Interactive discussions on youth inclusion, sustainable development, and innovation.

Study Trip to the United Nations HQ

Get up close to global diplomacy and multilateral decision-making.

Visit to CERN

Explore the world’s leading physics lab, where the World Wide Web was invented, and visit its famous exhibitions on particle physics, and groundbreaking scientific innovations.

Swiss Cultural Experience

Enjoy traditional Swiss cuisine while networking with international peers.

The Kofi Annan Youth Grant

The Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 offers a seed grant of up to $1000 to support a promising social action project. Delegates will have the chance to pitch their ideas during the forum, and the most innovative, impactful, and feasible project will receive funding. One successful delegate will receive the grant.

Themes of the Forum

The Forum will explore critical global issues through:

Youth Leadership & Policy Influence

Enhancing youth participation in governance and policymaking.

Sustainability & Climate Action

Understanding the role of young leaders in tackling global environmental challenges.

Digital Innovation & Future Skills

Examining the impact of AI, digital governance, and tech-driven solutions.

Peacebuilding & Global Diplomacy

Engaging in dialogue on international cooperation, conflict resolution, and multilateralism.

Human Rights and Peacebuilding

Amplifying the voice of youth to achieve a just and peaceful world.

Global Governance

Overcoming challenges to improving governance

Eligibility Criteria

Age: 16 – 46 years
Open to participants of all nationalities
Open to students, graduates, young professionals, civil society members, media, NGO employees, think tank officials, and individuals passionate about global change.
No prior experience required—both emerging and experienced leaders are welcome!

Selection Criteria

Demonstrated motivation and commitment to youth empowerment Strong communication and leadership potential Interest in policy, international relations, or sustainable development
Diversity and inclusion will be key considerations in selection

YEF is Offering 150 Seats, 40 Fully-Funded, 30 Partially Funded, 30 Forum Admission and 50 Self-Funded

Application Process

Applying for the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 is simple and straight forward:

Step. 1

Complete the online application form by providing your personal and professional details, answering questions about your motivation, and sharing any relevant experience (if applicable).

Step. 2

After the application deadline, submissions will be reviewed by expert evaluators. To ensure a fair process, applications will be assessed randomly to minimize selection bias. Evaluations will be based on motivation, willingness to learn, and leadership potential.