Fully Funded Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland Aims to Tackle Climate Challenges

Applications are now being accepted for the Youth Leadership Forum 2025, a fully funded program focused on empowering young leaders to address critical climate issues in the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and Arctic regions. The program, a collaboration between the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Arctic Circle, culminates in an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025, with all expenses covered for selected participants.

Bridging the Arctic and the Himalayas: A Cross-Regional Collaboration

The forum aims to foster collaboration between youth from two of the world's most vulnerable regions to climate change. Twelve youth leaders will be selected to participate in a year-long virtual fellowship program, featuring monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops. The program’s core focus is on building capacity and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experiences to develop innovative solutions to shared environmental challenges.

Program Components and Benefits

The fully funded fellowship covers all costs associated with the in-person event in Reykjavik, including travel, accommodation, and participation fees. Beyond the financial support, participants will benefit from:

Capacity-building and training sessions led by climate experts from the Arctic and HKH regions. Global recognition and opportunities to participate in other international forums and conferences. Certification of participation and reference letters upon successful completion of the program. Membership in a network of HKH and Arctic youth leaders, activists, policymakers, and climate advocates.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Youth Engagement

"Engaging youth in climate action is not just a matter of intergenerational equity; it's a strategic imperative," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading climate policy analyst at the Global Environmental Institute. "Young people bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a deep commitment to creating a sustainable future. Programs like the Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland are crucial for providing them with the skills, knowledge, and networks they need to become effective climate leaders."

Historical Context: A Growing Focus on Youth Leadership in Climate Action

The Youth Leadership Forum builds on a growing global movement to empower young people in climate action. In recent years, international organizations, governments, and NGOs have increasingly recognized the vital role that youth can play in addressing the climate crisis. Initiatives like the UN Youth Climate Action Summit and the Fridays for Future movement have demonstrated the power of youth voices in shaping climate policy and driving change.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

To be eligible for the Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be aged 19–35 years. Be a citizen of an HKH or Arctic country. Be part of a youth organization or program related to climate or environment. Demonstrate interest in Arctic and/or HKH environmental and climate issues. Possess leadership potential and be involved in volunteer work or climate-related activities. Be ready to collaborate with other youth climate networks. Demonstrate dedication to gender equality and inclusive engagement. Possess excellent English language and public speaking skills. Be comfortable with content creation and social media. Be available for 4–7 hours per month for 1 year. Have a laptop and good internet connection. Have passport validity for minimum 6 months after October 2025.

How to Apply Interested candidates can apply through the online nomination form. The application requires the following documents:

CV. A letter of endorsement. A short personal statement. A 2-minute video pitch. A copy of passport’s personal information page.

Deadline The deadline for applications is July 31, 2025.

The Future of Climate Leadership: A Call to Action

The Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland represents a significant opportunity for young leaders to contribute to climate solutions and build a more sustainable future. By fostering collaboration, providing training, and empowering youth voices, the program aims to create a new generation of climate leaders who are equipped to address the complex challenges facing the HKH and Arctic regions, and the world at large.

Dr. Ben Carter, a specialist in international youth development programs, adds, "This forum is more than just a training program; it's an investment in the future. By connecting young leaders from diverse backgrounds and providing them with the resources they need to succeed, ICIMOD and Arctic Circle are helping to build a more resilient and equitable world."