The Youth Empowerment Forum (YEF) 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland returns for its second edition, bringing together 250 young leaders and changemakers from around the world for an immersive global leadership experience. Organized by the Center for Global Dialogue & Leadership (CGDL), the forum equips youth with exposure to international institutions, diplomatic processes, and multilateral cooperation, providing the skills and networks necessary to lead impactful local and global initiatives.
About the Program
- Host Organization: Center for Global Dialogue & Leadership (CGDL)
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
- Event Dates: 3–6 September 2026
- Total Seats: 250
- Funded Seats Deadline: 5 July 2026
- Program Highlights:
- Policy dialogues and expert-led workshops
- Institutional visits to the United Nations Headquarters (Palais des Nations)
- Study visit and briefing at the World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Networking sessions, cultural exchanges, and leadership skill development
- Aligned Frameworks: UN Youth, Peace & Security Agenda, UN SDGs, EU Youth Strategy
Financial Coverage – Funded Scholarships
Fully Funded Scholarship (Administrative fee $16.99 USD applies):
- Round-trip international airfare support
- 4-star hotel accommodation in Geneva
- Daily breakfasts and meals during forum hours
- Full conference access
- Visa support and documentation
- Airport transfers
- Institutional study visits to UN & WTO
- Premium event merchandise
- Global leadership certification
- Networking receptions and cultural exchange opportunities
- Free Geneva Public Transport Card
- Opportunity to win a $1,000 USD Impact Grant for a delegate-led project
Partially Funded Scholarship (Administrative fee $16.99 USD applies, airfare not included):
- 4-star hotel accommodation in Geneva
- Daily breakfasts and meals during forum hours
- Full conference access
- Visa support and documentation
- Airport transfers
- Institutional study visits to UN & WTO
- Premium event merchandise
- Global leadership certification
- Networking and cultural exchange opportunities
- Free Geneva Public Transport Card
- Opportunity to win a $1,000 USD Impact Grant
Guaranteed Participation Options
- Forum Access: $599 USD
- Full conference access, guided visits to UN & WTO, meals, networking, cultural exchange
- No airfare or accommodation included
- Self-Funded Seat: $849 USD
- Includes 4-star accommodation, full conference access, meals, guided visits, networking, and cultural exchange
- Visa Invitation Letter: $99 USD
- Official visa invitation letter, documentation checklist, and embassy coordination support
Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Open to all countries; participation from the Global South encouraged
- Age: 16–46
- Academic / Professional Background: Open to students, professionals, entrepreneurs, researchers, and community leaders from all fields
- Passion / Interests: Global change, youth empowerment, diplomacy, technology & innovation, peacebuilding, UN, and humanitarian work
- Language: English proficiency required
Program Tracks
Global Governance & Diplomatic Leadership Track
- High-level workshops and policy simulations
- Panel discussions on international affairs
- UN Headquarters visit (Palais des Nations)
- Interactive briefings on multilateral processes
Global Institutions & International Cooperation Track
- Study visit and briefing at the World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Panel discussions on global trade and development
- Insight into how international organizations collaborate for sustainable development
What You Will Gain
- Understanding of global diplomacy and humanitarian systems
- Exposure to multilateral decision-making
- International networking and cross-border collaboration
- Enhanced leadership credibility and certification
- Opportunity for project funding with a $1,000 USD Impact Grant
How to Apply
- Complete the single application form for fully and partially funded scholarships
- Submit personal statements, CV, and other required documents
- Pay the administrative fee ($16.99 USD)
- Apply before 5 July 2026
- Visit the official portal for details: Apply Here
Why YEF 2026 Matters
- Global Governance Hub: Direct exposure to UN and WTO, elite networking
- International Careers: Diplomacy, multilateral organizations, NGOs, public policy, social entrepreneurship
- Cross-Border Impact: Turn dialogue into actionable projects aligned with UN SDGs
- Recognition: Gain global leadership certification and credibility
