Fully Funded Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland to Address Climate Challenges

Applications are now being accepted for the Youth Leadership Forum 2025, a fully funded program offering young leaders a unique opportunity to engage with climate issues through virtual collaboration and an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025. Organized by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Arctic Circle, the forum aims to empower youth from the Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) and Arctic regions to become effective climate advocates and leaders.

HKH-Arctic Youth Leadership Forum: Bridging Regions, Sharing Solutions

The HKH-Arctic Youth Leadership Forum will select 12 young leaders to participate in a year-long fellowship. This program includes monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops focused on enhancing leadership skills and fostering cross-regional collaboration. Participants will be involved in organizing local, regional, and global campaigns addressing critical climate issues, sharing experiences, and developing solutions to common challenges faced by both regions.

Program Benefits and Opportunities

The fully funded fellowship covers all costs associated with the in-person event in Iceland, including travel and accommodation. Participants will also 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. Access to a network of HKH and Arctic youth leaders, activists, policymakers, and climate advocates.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Cross-Regional Collaboration

"The impacts of climate change are not confined by geographical boundaries," says Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading climate scientist specializing in mountain ecosystems. "Initiatives like the HKH-Arctic Youth Leadership Forum are crucial because they facilitate the exchange of knowledge and best practices between regions facing similar challenges. By empowering young leaders from these vulnerable areas, we can foster innovative solutions and build resilience at a global scale."

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

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

Be aged 19–35 years. Be citizens 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. Possess passport validity for a minimum of 6 months after October 2025.

How to Apply

Interested candidates can apply through the online nomination form. The application process requires submitting 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.

Applicants will also need to provide contact and personal information, select their educational degree programs, mention the youth-focused climate or environmental organization/program they are a member of, and answer additional information questions.

Historical Context and Current Significance

The Hindu Kush Himalayas and the Arctic are two regions acutely vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The HKH region, often referred to as the "Third Pole," is experiencing accelerated glacial melt, impacting water resources for billions of people downstream. Similarly, the Arctic is warming at twice the global average, leading to sea ice loss and disruptions to ecosystems. Initiatives like the Youth Leadership Forum build upon a growing recognition of the need for collaborative, youth-led action to address these intertwined challenges.

Deadline and Further Information

The deadline for applications is 31 July, 2025. For more detailed information and to access the application form, please visit the official website linked on the original posting.

Analytical Viewpoint: Investing in Future Climate Leaders

According to environmental policy analyst, Kenji Tanaka, "Investing in the leadership development of young people is paramount to achieving long-term climate resilience. By providing platforms for collaboration and skill-building, programs like the Youth Leadership Forum are not only addressing immediate environmental concerns but also cultivating a generation of informed and engaged citizens who will drive sustainable solutions for years to come."