Fully Funded Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland Opens Applications for 2025

Applications are now being accepted for the Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland 2025, a fully funded program designed to empower young leaders from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and Arctic regions. The forum, a collaborative initiative between the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Arctic Circle, offers a unique opportunity for participants to develop leadership skills, engage in cross-regional collaboration, and contribute to climate solutions. The program culminates in an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025, with all expenses covered.

A Year-Long Fellowship Focused on Climate Action

The Youth Leadership Forum is a year-long fellowship that combines virtual engagement with an intensive in-person experience. Twelve selected youth leaders will participate in monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops, focusing on climate-related issues. Participants will also be involved in organizing local, regional, and global campaigns to address climate change challenges. The program aims to foster a network of young leaders who can share experiences, develop solutions, and advocate for climate action.

In-Person Event in Reykjavik: An Immersive Experience

A key component of the fellowship is the fully funded in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, scheduled for October 2025. This event will provide participants with the opportunity to network with peers, engage with climate experts, and participate in capacity-building sessions. All costs associated with the event, including travel, accommodation, and participation fees, will be covered by the program.

Expert Perspective: Bridging the Arctic and the Himalayas

"The HKH and Arctic regions, while geographically distant, face similar challenges related to climate change, including glacial melt, changing weather patterns, and impacts on local communities," explains Dr. Anya Sharma, a climate scientist specializing in mountain ecosystems. "This forum provides a crucial platform for young leaders from these regions to learn from each other, share best practices, and develop collaborative solutions. The focus on cross-regional collaboration is particularly valuable, as it recognizes that climate change is a global issue requiring coordinated action."

Benefits of Participation

All expenses paid for the in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland. No participation fees. Access to capacity-building and training sessions led by climate experts. Global recognition and opportunities to participate in international forums and conferences. Certification of participation and reference letters upon successful completion. Membership in a network of HKH and Arctic youth leaders, activists, policymakers, and climate advocates.

Eligibility Criteria

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 involvement 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. Possess passport validity for a minimum of 6 months after October 2025.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply through the online nomination form. The application process involves providing contact and personal information, selecting educational degree programs, mentioning membership in youth-focused climate or environmental organizations, and attaching required supporting materials. The supporting materials include:

CV. 1 letter of endorsement. A short personal statement. A 2-minute video pitch. A copy of the passport’s personal information page.

After filling in the additional information questions, applicants can submit the form.

Historical and Current Context of Climate Leadership Programs

The Youth Leadership Forum builds upon a growing trend of international programs aimed at fostering youth engagement in climate action. Over the past decade, numerous initiatives have emerged, recognizing the crucial role young people play in addressing climate change. These programs often focus on building leadership skills, providing access to resources and networks, and empowering youth to advocate for policy changes. The HKH-Arctic Youth Leadership Forum is unique in its focus on bridging two geographically distinct but ecologically interconnected regions, acknowledging the shared vulnerabilities and opportunities for collaboration in the face of climate change.

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland 2025 is July 31, 2025. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply well in advance of the deadline.

Official Link For more information and to access the application form, please visit the official website of ICIMOD or Arctic Circle.