Apply for the Fully Funded Global Youth Festival 2026 in Paris, France. Access one of the world’s largest youth leadership scholarship programmes with 350 awards available, including fully funded opportunities covering airfare, accommodation, meals, certification, and mentorship.
Overview
Applications are now open for the Global Youth Festival (GYF) 2026, one of the largest international youth leadership events of the year.
Hosted by HISA, the four-day festival will bring together young leaders, changemakers, entrepreneurs, students, professionals, and innovators from more than 120 countries to participate in leadership development, policy discussions, cultural exchange, mentorship, and global networking.
Taking place in Paris, France, the event offers 350 scholarship awards, including fully funded opportunities that cover travel, accommodation, meals, certification, and participation costs.
About the Global Youth Festival 2026
The Global Youth Festival is HISA’s flagship international leadership programme designed to empower young people to become active contributors to global development and decision-making.
Over four immersive days, participants will engage in:
- Leadership development sessions
- Policy dialogues
- Interactive workshops
- International networking
- Cultural exchange activities
- Mentorship programmes
- Global youth discussions
The festival aims to create a platform where young people can exchange ideas, build partnerships, and develop practical solutions to global challenges.
Event Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Global Youth Festival 2026 |
| Organizer | HISA |
| Location | Paris, France |
| Event Dates | 15–18 October 2026 |
| Duration | 4 Days |
| Participating Countries | 120+ |
| Scholarships Available | 350 |
| Programme Language | English |
| Eligibility Age | 18–40 Years |
Why Paris?
The 2026 edition will take place in:
Paris
Paris is globally recognized as a center for diplomacy, culture, international cooperation, and innovation.
The city hosts numerous international organizations and has played a significant role in global discussions on:
- Human rights
- Climate action
- International cooperation
- Education
- Public policy
The festival seeks to leverage this environment to inspire future leaders and encourage meaningful dialogue among participants from around the world.
Programme Objectives
The Global Youth Festival is built around six key objectives:
Amplify Youth Voices
Provide opportunities for young people to participate in policy discussions and global conversations.
Foster Cross-Cultural Dialogue
Encourage understanding and collaboration among participants from diverse backgrounds.
Build Leadership Skills
Equip delegates with practical leadership, communication, negotiation, and diplomacy skills.
Support the Sustainable Development Goals
Connect youth action with the implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda.
Create Global Networks
Facilitate long-term international partnerships and professional connections.
Celebrate Youth Culture
Promote creativity, identity, diversity, and cultural exchange among participants.
Programme Themes
Participants will engage in discussions around major global issues, including:
Climate Action and Environmental Justice
Exploring youth-led solutions to climate challenges and environmental sustainability.
Peace, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution
Examining how young people can contribute to peacebuilding and global cooperation.
Education, Innovation and the Future of Work
Discussing emerging technologies, AI, and future employment opportunities.
Governance and Civic Participation
Exploring democratic participation and youth engagement in governance processes.
Human Rights and Social Justice
Promoting equality, inclusion, and human rights advocacy.
Technology and Social Innovation
Highlighting youth entrepreneurship and technology-driven solutions.
Global Citizenship and Cultural Identity
Examining the balance between local identity and global engagement.
Mental Health and Youth Wellbeing
Addressing resilience, wellbeing, and mental health challenges facing young people today.
Scholarship Categories
A total of 350 scholarships will be awarded.
Tier 1: Fully Funded Global Scholar
100 Awards Available
Benefits include:
- Round-trip airfare support
- Full visa fee reimbursement
- Shared accommodation in Paris
- Daily breakfast
- Forum meals
- Full festival participation
- Official HISA merchandise
- Welcome kit
- Speaking opportunity at the main assembly
- Mentorship access
- Official certification
This is the most prestigious scholarship category and is awarded to exceptional young leaders demonstrating significant leadership potential and community impact.
Tier 2: Partially Funded Scholar
100 Awards Available
Benefits include:
- Shared accommodation
- Daily breakfast
- Forum meals
- Full festival participation
- Official certification
- Mentorship opportunities
- Official merchandise
Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel to Paris.
Tier 3: Festival Pass Scholar
150 Awards Available
Benefits include:
- Full access to all festival activities
- Official certification
- HISA merchandise
- Speaking opportunities
- Mentorship support
Participants cover their own travel and accommodation costs.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
Age Requirement
- Be between 18 and 40 years old
Nationality
- Open to applicants from all countries
Special encouragement is given to applicants from:
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- South Asia
- Southeast Asia
- Latin America
- Middle East
- Pacific Islands
Language Requirement
- Have working proficiency in English
Academic Background
No specific educational background is required.
The programme welcomes:
- Students
- Graduates
- Entrepreneurs
- NGO professionals
- Civil servants
- Researchers
- Activists
- Artists
- Young professionals
Participation Commitment
Applicants must be available to attend the full programme from:
15–18 October 2026
What HISA Looks For
Successful applicants typically demonstrate:
- Passion for positive change
- Leadership potential
- Community involvement
- Innovation and creativity
- Cross-cultural openness
- Commitment to social impact
Formal leadership titles are not required.
The selection process focuses on motivation, vision, and potential.
Selection Process
Step 1: Submit Application
Applicants complete an online application and provide:
- Motivation statement
- Description of a project or initiative they have contributed to
Step 2: Application Review
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Leadership potential
- Motivation
- Vision
- Community impact
- Diversity considerations
Step 3: Acceptance
Successful candidates receive:
- Official acceptance letter
- Visa support documentation
- Welcome package
- Access to the delegate community
Benefits of Participating
Participants will gain:
International Networking
Connect with young leaders from more than 120 countries.
Leadership Development
Strengthen practical leadership and communication skills.
Global Exposure
Engage with international experts and speakers.
Certification
Receive an official HISA leadership certificate.
Mentorship
Access guidance from experienced professionals and leaders.
Cultural Exchange
Experience one of the world’s most diverse international youth gatherings.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the official online application through HISA’s application platform.
Applicants are automatically considered for all scholarship categories through a single application process.
Early applications are encouraged due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
| Programme | Global Youth Festival 2026 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| Dates | 15–18 October 2026 |
| Duration | 4 Days |
| Scholarships | 350 |
| Fully Funded Awards | 100 |
| Partially Funded Awards | 100 |
| Festival Pass Awards | 150 |
| Eligible Age | 18–40 Years |
| Nationalities | All Countries |
| Language | English |
Conclusion
The Fully Funded Global Youth Festival 2026 represents a remarkable opportunity for young leaders seeking international exposure, leadership development, mentorship, and global networking.
With 350 scholarship awards available and participants expected from more than 120 countries, the festival offers one of the largest youth leadership platforms of the year.
Young changemakers, students, entrepreneurs, activists, and professionals who are passionate about creating positive impact are strongly encouraged to apply and become part of this transformative global experience in Paris.
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