Are you a passionate young leader eager to create real change in your community and beyond? The Youth Empowerment Forum (YEF) 2025, hosted in Geneva, Switzerland, offers an extraordinary opportunity for aspiring changemakers worldwide. Aligned with the EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027 and the UN Youth2030 Strategy, this forum empowers young individuals through a fully immersive experience focused on leadership, global diplomacy, sustainability, and innovation.
Held at the prestigious Mercure Hotel from September 4–7, 2025, this event includes high level panel discussions, hands on workshops, a study visit to the United Nations Headquarters, and a tour of CERN, the world’s leading scientific research hub.
With up to 150 spots available including 40 fully funded scholarships, this forum is an unmissable platform for youth leaders, students, professionals, and activists committed to driving global progress.
More Details About the Scholarship
The Youth Empowerment Forum is designed to spark critical thinking, inspire leadership, and foster global cooperation. By bringing together diverse voices from around the world, it provides a platform where young individuals can engage with diplomats, experts, and thought leaders, share ideas, and build lasting networks.
Participants will attend sessions covering:
* Youth-driven policymaking
* Climate action and sustainability
* Future skills and digital transformation
* Global governance and diplomacy
* Peacebuilding and human rights
One of the most unique features is a seed grant of $1,000 , which will be awarded to the delegate who pitches the most impactful and feasible social project during the forum.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for YEF 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Between 16 and 46 years old
- Nationality: Open to all countries
- Background: Students, recent graduates, young professionals, NGO workers, media professionals, and civil society activists
- Experience: No prior experience is required—both emerging and seasoned changemakers are encouraged to apply
Selection is based on:
- Motivation and genuine interest in youth empowerment
- Demonstrated leadership potential
- Interest in international development, policymaking, or social innovation
- Commitment to diversity and inclusion
Benefits
Whether you’re selected as a fully funded, partially funded, or self-funded delegate, the benefits are extensive and designed to offer a transformative experience:
Fully Funded Package (Highly Competitive):
- Round-trip airfare
- Accommodation at 4-star Mercure Hotel
- Full access to workshops, panels, and forums
- Meals during conference days
- Visit to the United Nations HQ and CERN
- Official invitation letter for Schengen visa
- Local transport pass in Geneva
- Premium training kit and event merchandise
- Certificate in Global UN SDGs Leadership
- Speaking opportunity during the forum
Seed Grant Opportunity:
One exceptional project will receive $1,000 to bring their vision to life.
Required Documents
Applicants will need to prepare the following materials when applying:
- Valid passport copy or government-issued ID
- Updated CV or resume
- Short essays or answers on motivation and leadership experience
- Optional supporting documents: recommendation letters, certificates, or project proposals
Note: For visa processing support, additional documents may be requested after acceptance.
Deadline
Application Deadline: June 25, 2025
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to enhance their chances of selection and to allow sufficient time for visa processing and travel preparations.
How to Apply for the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025
Follow these simple yet crucial steps to apply for the Youth Empowerment Forum 2025:
Step 1: Submit Your Online Application
Begin by filling out the digital application form available on the official YEF website. Be sure to include accurate personal information, express your passion for youth empowerment, and share any leadership or volunteer experiences you’ve had.
Step 2: Application Review Process
Once submitted, your application will be assessed by a diverse panel of reviewers. The selection process is randomized and impartial, ensuring each applicant receives a fair and unbiased evaluation based on merit, motivation, and leadership potential.
Step 3: Notification of Results
Candidates selected to participate will be notified via email. In addition, the official list of successful applicants will be published on the Youth Empowerment Forum’s website and social media platforms.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Show genuine passion in your answers let your motivation and purpose shine through clearly.
- Mention past involvement in youth-driven initiatives, volunteer work, or leadership roles, no matter how big or small.
- Link your personal goals to the mission of the forum. Demonstrating alignment between your vision and the forum’s objectives can boost your chances.
- If you’re uncertain about any step, refer to the detailed FAQ section provided on the official site.
The Youth Empowerment Forum 2025 in Geneva is more than just a four day event it’s an opportunity to transform your passion into actionable change. Set in one of the world’s hubs for diplomacy and innovation, this experience combines leadership training, policy dialogue, and cross-cultural networking like no other.
Whether your interests lie in sustainable development, international policy, digital innovation, or peacebuilding, this program equips you with the knowledge, global connections, and inspiration to lead with purpose.
From visiting the United Nations Headquarters to engaging in powerful discussions with global experts and changemakers, every moment at YEF 2025 is designed to elevate your impact and accelerate your mission.
Spots are limited, and competition is strong only 150 participants will be selected, with exclusive funding opportunities for top applicants.
FAQ Youth Empowerment Forum 2025
Who is eligible to apply?
The forum welcomes applications from young individuals aged 16 to 30, regardless of nationality. We are looking for passionate youth with a keen interest in leadership, social impact, and global issues—whether or not they have formal leadership titles.
Do I need previous leadership experience to apply?
Not necessarily. While leadership experience is a plus, it doesn’t have to be formal. We value your commitment and initiative whether you’ve led a school project, participated in volunteer work, or started a community initiative.
Is there an application fee?
No, applying to the Youth Empowerment Forum is free. However, selected participants are required to pay a program participation fee, unless they are awarded a full or partial scholarship.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, a limited number of scholarships (both full and partial) are offered to applicants who demonstrate exceptional potential and genuine financial need. You can indicate your interest in receiving financial support directly within the application form.
What can I expect from the program?
Participants will take part in an immersive leadership journey, including:
- Interactive leadership and communication workshops
- Global policy discussions and panel talks
- Simulation of international diplomacy sessions
- Networking with young leaders from diverse backgrounds
- Visits to major global institutions such as the UN Office at Geneva
Will I need a visa to attend?
Depending on your nationality, you may require a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland. For selected participants, the organizing committee will provide an official invitation letter to support your visa application.
What language will be used during the forum?
The entire program will be conducted in English. A strong command of written and spoken English is highly recommended to ensure full participation and engagement.
When is the application deadline?
The final deadline to submit your application is June 25, 2025, at 11:59 PM (GMT). Late submissions will not be considered.
How will I know if I’ve been selected?
Shortlisted applicants will receive an official acceptance email from the YEF organizing team. The list of selected participants will also be published on the official website and our verified social media accounts.