Deadline:
July 30, 2026
Program Starts: August 12, 2026
Program Ends: August 14, 2026
Location(s)
Switzerland
Geneva
Overview
The AFS Youth Assembly is a global platform that cultivates an international network of young leaders and changemakers through exchange, education, action and impact.
The 31st AFS Youth Assembly invites passionate young leaders aged 18-35 to join a global community of changemakers. This event goes beyond dialogue—it’s about action. Through engaging sessions, networking with peers from around the world, and ideation challenges, you’ll gain the skills and connections to create lasting impact, guided by experts and practitioners.
Details
Under the event theme: “Rise. Reimagine. Rebuild: A World for All,” we will explore four key tracks:
- Reclaiming Development as a Human Right for All
- Policy, Justice and Adaptation: Real-World Solutions for Climate Resilience
- Rethinking Education: Youth Innovation for Future-Ready Skills
- Bridging Divides: The Power of Connection in a Polarized World
There two ways you can join us:
Conference-Only
Experience the three conference days filled with engaging sessions, opportunities to learn from global leaders, and network with your peers from around the world. Through the theme of the 30th Session of the AFS Youth Assembly, “Defying Adversity: Empowering Young Global Citizens to Lead” we will explore:
- Peace, Policy and Action: Navigating Global Instability
- Green Skills for Employment: Building a Sustainable Resource-Efficient Society
- Youth Mental Health in a Turbulent World: Challenges and Solutions
- Advancing Women’s Inclusion and Leadership
Academies
Upgrade your experience with enriching program tracks that offer a comprehensive theme-based experience beyond the flagship conference with a series of seminars, organization site visits and exclusive special events to facilitate learning, connection, engagement and action beyond the conference.
You can choose between:
- Climate Entrepreneurship delivered by New York University (NYU)
- Changemaking delivered by University of Pennsylvania’s CSIS
- International Affairs including Model UN simulations and visits to Permanent Missions to the UN
The AFS Youth Assembly Program includes:
- Keynote Talks: Get inspired by today’s trailblazers and influencers
- Thematic Discussions: Interact with panels of experts and leaders in various areas of inquiry
- Skill-building Workshops: Engage in in-depth discussions or activities to develop practical skills
- AFS Award for Young Global Citizens Finals: Finalists pitch their ideas to distinguished panel of judges for funding
- Networking: Make connections with young leaders from all over the world
- Awards: Find out the winners of the Outstanding Youth Delegate Award
- Field Visits: Get an inside look into the working of global and national institutions and organizations
- Special Events: Make new friends or collaborators through special dinners, CultureFest and more
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Eligibility Requirements
- Delegates must be 18-35 years old
- Proven track record of leadership experience, school, or community involvement
- Interest in global affairs, sustainable development, and youth issues
- Proficient in English (Intermediate Level)
Dates
Deadline: July 30, 2026
Program starts:
August 12, 2026
Program ends:
August 14, 2026
Program Starts: August 12, 2026
Program Ends: August 14, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
AFS Youth Assembly Conference-Only Fees
Early-bird rate: $325
Applies from October 15, 2025 to December 31, 2025
Regular rate: $450
Applies from January 1, 2026 to April 30, 2026
Late rate: $595
Applies from May 1, 2026 to July 30, 2026
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
