Applications are now open for the Fully Funded Global Youth Festival 2026 in Paris, France. Young leaders from around the world can apply for one of 350 scholarship awards to attend this international leadership and youth development summit.
Overview
Applications are officially open for the Global Youth Festival (GYF) 2026, one of the largest international youth leadership gatherings organized by HISA (Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance).
Taking place in Paris, France, from 15–18 October 2026, the festival will bring together more than 500 young leaders, changemakers, entrepreneurs, students, professionals, and innovators from over 120 countries for four days of leadership development, policy dialogue, cultural exchange, and international networking.
To make participation accessible to talented young people worldwide, HISA is offering 350 scholarship awards, including fully funded opportunities covering major participation expenses.
Programme Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Global Youth Festival 2026 |
| Organizer | HISA (Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance) |
| Location | Paris, France |
| Dates | 15–18 October 2026 |
| Duration | 4 Days |
| Participants | 500+ Delegates |
| Countries Represented | 120+ |
| Scholarships Available | 350 |
| Eligible Age | 18–40 Years |
| Language | English |
| Application Status | Open |
About the Global Youth Festival 2026
The Global Youth Festival 2026 is HISA’s flagship international summit designed to empower the next generation of global leaders.
The programme combines:
- Leadership development
- Policy discussions
- Diplomacy training
- Skills workshops
- Cultural exchange
- International networking
- Mentorship opportunities
Participants will engage with experts, policymakers, youth leaders, and professionals from around the world while developing practical leadership skills and expanding their global networks.
Programme Objectives
The festival focuses on six key objectives:
Amplifying Youth Voices
Providing platforms for young people to contribute to important global conversations.
Promoting Cross-Cultural Understanding
Encouraging meaningful dialogue among participants from diverse backgrounds.
Developing Leadership Skills
Building practical leadership, communication, and diplomacy capabilities.
Supporting the SDGs
Connecting youth action with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Building Global Networks
Creating lasting professional and personal connections across countries and regions.
Celebrating Youth Innovation
Highlighting creativity, diversity, and youth-led solutions to global challenges.
Key Discussion Themes
Participants will explore a wide range of global issues, including:
Climate Action & Environmental Justice
- Climate policy
- Sustainability
- Environmental advocacy
Peace, Diplomacy & Conflict Resolution
- Peacebuilding
- Mediation
- International cooperation
Education & Future of Work
- Artificial intelligence
- Digital transformation
- Skills development
Governance & Civic Participation
- Democracy
- Youth engagement
- Public policy
Human Rights & Social Justice
- Equality
- Inclusion
- Human rights advocacy
Technology & Social Innovation
- Innovation
- Entrepreneurship
- Digital solutions
Global Citizenship
- Cultural identity
- International cooperation
- Global engagement
Mental Health & Youth Resilience
- Well-being
- Community support
- Personal development
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
Age Requirement
- Be between 18 and 40 years old
Nationality
- Open to all nationalities worldwide
Language
- Have working proficiency in English
Background
Applications are welcome from:
- Students
- Graduates
- Researchers
- Entrepreneurs
- NGO professionals
- Civil servants
- Activists
- Artists
- Young professionals
No specific academic discipline is required.
What HISA Looks For
Successful candidates generally demonstrate:
- Leadership potential
- Community involvement
- Motivation for positive change
- Cross-cultural openness
- Commitment to social impact
- Vision for future leadership
Scholarship Categories
A single application automatically places applicants into consideration for all scholarship categories.
1. Fully Funded Global Scholar
Number of Awards
- 100 Scholarships
Benefits
- Airfare support
- Visa fee reimbursement
- Shared accommodation in Paris
- Daily breakfast
- Forum meals
- Full festival participation
- Official welcome kit
- HISA merchandise
- Speaking opportunity
- Mentorship access
- Official certification
2. Partially Funded Scholar
Number of Awards
- 100 Scholarships
Benefits
- Shared accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Forum meals
- Full festival participation
- Official certification
- Mentorship access
- Speaking opportunity
Travel expenses remain the participant’s responsibility.
3. Festival Pass Scholar
Number of Awards
- 150 Scholarships
Benefits
- Full programme access
- Official certification
- Networking opportunities
- Welcome kit
- Mentorship access
- Speaking opportunity
Participants arrange their own travel and accommodation.
Selection Process
Step 1: Submit Application
Applicants complete the online application and provide:
- Personal information
- Motivation statement
- Leadership experience
- Community engagement details
Step 2: Committee Review
Applications are assessed based on:
- Leadership potential
- Vision
- Community impact
- Diversity considerations
- Motivation
Step 3: Acceptance
Successful applicants receive:
- Official acceptance letter
- Scholarship notification
- Visa support documents
- Delegate onboarding information
Why Attend?
Participants will gain:
International Exposure
Meet young leaders from over 120 countries.
Leadership Development
Build practical leadership and diplomacy skills.
Professional Networking
Connect with future collaborators and mentors.
Global Recognition
Receive an official HISA certificate.
Cultural Exchange
Experience diverse perspectives and international collaboration.
Why Paris?
Paris provides a unique setting for global dialogue due to its:
- Rich diplomatic history
- International institutions
- Cultural significance
- Global connectivity
- Legacy of human rights and innovation
The city serves as a powerful backdrop for discussions about the future of global leadership.
Conclusion
The Fully Funded Global Youth Festival 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for young leaders worldwide to develop leadership skills, engage in international dialogue, and build lifelong global connections.
With 350 scholarship awards available, including fully funded opportunities, the programme provides accessible pathways for motivated young people to participate in one of the largest youth leadership gatherings of 2026.
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