Applications Are Now Open!
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Fully-Funded Seats
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Partially-Funded Seats
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Forum Admission Seats
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“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 2025 is designed to equip young changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and networks to drive meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.
Join us 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 our 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 where they will explore cutting-edge exhibitions to understand groundbreaking scientific discoveries that are 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.
Kofi Annan Youth Grant
The Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 offers a seed grant 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 to implement their project and make a difference in their community. This is your opportunity to transform your innovative ideas into reality and create meaningful change.
Themes of the Forum
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
Participation Categories
Fully Funded
Selection on Competitive Basis
- Round Trip Flight
- Official Visa Invitation Letter
- Full Conference Access
- Speaking Opportunity
- Visit to UN Headquarters, CERN, and other international institutions
- Global Leadership Certificate
- Shared Accommodation
- Meals During Conference
- Premium Training Kit
$15.9
Forum Admission
Guaranteed Participation
- Official Visa Invitation Letter
- Full Conference Access
- Speaking Opportunity
- Visit to UN Headquarters, CERN, and other international institutions
- Global Leadership Certificate
- Meals During Conference
- Premium Training Kit
$399
Self-Funded
- Official Visa Invitation Letter
- Full Conference Access
- Speaking Opportunity
- Visit to UN Headquarters, CERN, and other international institutions
- Global Leadership Certificate
- Shared Accommodation
- Meals During Conference
- Premium Training Kit
$950
Visa Invitation Letter
- Officially Signed Visa Letter
- Information Shared with Relevant Embassies for Visa Assistance
- Option to Upgrade to Forum Admission or Self-Funded with cost adjusted
$120
Application Process
Applying for the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 is simple and straightforward. Follow these three steps to join our global community of young leaders.
Complete Application Form
✓ Provide your personal and professional details
✓ Answer questions about your motivation
✓ Share any relevant experience (if applicable)
Application Review
✓ Review by expert evaluators
✓ Random assessment to minimize bias
✓ Evaluation based on motivation and potential
Receive Confirmation
✓ Official confirmation via email
✓ Results published on our website
✓ Announcement on our social media channels
Frequently Asked Questions
YEF is open to individuals aged 16 to 46 from all nationalities, including students, graduates, young professionals, civil society members, NGO employees, and think tank officials.
The fully funded category covers:
- Round-trip airfare
- Shared accommodation
- Full event access
- Study trips
- Meals during the event
- Official merchandise
Is prior volunteering or leadership experience required?
No, prior experience is not mandatory. Applicants with strong motivation and a desire to contribute are encouraged to apply.
- Fully Funded (Covers all expenses - competitive selection)
- Forum Admission - $399 (Covers event access, meals, study trips and networking - guaranteed selection)
- Self-Funded - $950 (Covers accommodation, meals, event access, study trips, and networking opportunities - guaranteed selection)
- Visa Invitation Letter - $120 (For applicants needing visa support)
Partially funded seat includes shared accommodation, meals, conference access, event kit, study trips, and networking opportunities. It doesn't include air-ticket.
The application process is simple:
- Submit the online application (Personal/professional details, motivation, and experience)
- Review process (Applications are reviewed randomly to reduce bias)
- Selection announcement (Successful applicants will be notified via email and website)
Yes! You can secure your participation through the Forum Admission ($399) or Self-Funded ($950) categories.
Yes, the application deadline is June 30, 2025. Early applications are encouraged.
Yes, all participants will receive an International Certificate of Participation.
The most innovative social action project pitch at YEF 2025 will receive a seed grant of up to $1,000 to bring their idea to life.
- Travel documents
- Personal essentials
- Business casual attire
- An eagerness to engage, learn, and network!
The Visa Invitation Letter allows you to apply for a Swiss visa to attend YEF 2025. We will also share the details of confirmed applicants with the respective Swiss Embassies to facilitate the process. However, securing a visa remains the applicant's responsibility.
If you later decide to upgrade to Forum Admission ($399) or Self-Funded ($950), the cost of your Visa Invitation Letter ($120) will be adjusted toward your chosen package.
Follow our website and social media for updates, deadlines, and event announcements.
Partnerships for Impact
We collaborate with leading global organizations to create meaningful opportunities for youth engagement and empowerment.
