Fully Funded Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland to Address Climate Challenges

Applications are now open 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 to tackle pressing climate issues. This unique initiative, a collaboration between the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Arctic Circle, offers a blend of virtual engagement and an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025. The forum aims to cultivate leadership skills, foster cross-regional collaboration, and amplify youth voices in the global climate conversation.

A Comprehensive Leadership Development Opportunity

The program selects 12 youth leaders for a year-long fellowship that includes monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops. Participants will also spearhead local, regional, and global campaigns focused on climate solutions. The in-person event in Iceland will provide an immersive experience, with all travel, accommodation, and participation costs covered. This comprehensive approach ensures participants gain valuable skills, knowledge, and a platform to influence climate policy and action.

Program Details

Host Country: Iceland Host Organizations: ICIMOD and Arctic Circle Location of In-Person Event: Reykjavik, Iceland Duration: 1-year virtual fellowship with an in-person event in October 2025

Benefits of Participation

Selected participants will receive a multitude of benefits, including:

Full funding for the in-person event, covering travel and accommodation. No participation fees. Access to 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.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Youth Leadership Forum, 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. Have 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 involves:

Filling in contact and personal information. Selecting your educational degree programs. Mentioning the youth-focused climate or environmental organization/program you are a member of. Attaching all required supporting materials. Answering additional information questions. Submitting the application form.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

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

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland 2025 is July 31, 2025.

The Significance of Youth Leadership in Climate Action

The HKH region and the Arctic are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Glacial melt, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events disproportionately affect communities in these regions. Engaging youth in climate action is crucial, as they represent the future and possess the energy, creativity, and passion to drive meaningful change.

Expert Perspective

Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading climate policy analyst at the Global Climate Institute, emphasizes the importance of initiatives like the Youth Leadership Forum. "Empowering youth from vulnerable regions is not just a matter of social justice; it's a strategic imperative," she states. "These young leaders bring unique perspectives and lived experiences to the table, which are essential for developing effective and equitable climate solutions. By providing them with the skills, resources, and platforms they need, we can unlock their potential to become powerful agents of change."

Historical Context

The focus on youth leadership in climate action has gained momentum in recent years, driven by the growing recognition of the urgency of the climate crisis and the need for innovative solutions. International agreements like the Paris Agreement acknowledge the importance of intergenerational equity and the role of youth in achieving climate goals. Programs like the Youth Leadership Forum build upon this foundation by providing concrete opportunities for young people to contribute to climate action at local, regional, and global levels.

Conclusion

The Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland 2025 offers a unique and valuable opportunity for young leaders from the HKH and Arctic regions to develop their skills, build networks, and contribute to addressing the climate crisis. By providing full funding and a comprehensive program, ICIMOD and Arctic Circle are investing in the next generation of climate leaders and empowering them to create a more sustainable future.