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 address pressing climate issues. The forum, a collaborative initiative between the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Arctic Circle, offers a unique platform for participants to develop leadership skills, share experiences, and contribute to climate solutions.

Opportunity Overview: Virtual Fellowship Leading to In-Person Summit

The program consists of a year-long virtual fellowship culminating in an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025. Twelve youth leaders will be selected to participate, representing diverse perspectives from their respective regions. All expenses related to the Iceland summit, including travel, accommodation, and participation costs, will be fully covered.

Program Highlights: Collaboration, Skill-Building, and Global Impact

Participants will engage in monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops focused on climate-related topics. They will also collaborate on local, regional, and global campaigns aimed at raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices. The forum provides a valuable opportunity for cross-regional knowledge sharing and the development of innovative solutions to shared environmental challenges.

Expert Perspective: Fostering Cross-Regional Collaboration for Climate Action

"The urgency of climate change demands collaborative solutions that transcend geographical boundaries," says Dr. Astrid Ogilvie, a climate scientist specializing in Arctic and Himalayan interactions. "This forum provides a crucial platform for young leaders from these vital regions to connect, learn from each other's experiences, and develop impactful strategies for climate resilience. By fostering cross-regional collaboration, we can accelerate the pace of innovation and create more effective solutions."

Historical and Current Context: The Importance of Youth Engagement in Climate Discourse

The involvement of youth in climate action has gained increasing recognition in recent years. Historically, environmental policies have often been shaped by older generations, neglecting the perspectives and concerns of those who will inherit the long-term consequences of climate change. The Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland directly addresses this gap by providing a platform for young voices to be heard and to actively contribute to climate solutions. This initiative aligns with a growing global movement to empower youth as key stakeholders in environmental governance and sustainable development.

Program Benefits: A Comprehensive Package for Emerging Leaders

Full funding for the in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland (travel, accommodation, and participation). Access to capacity-building and training sessions led by climate experts. Opportunities for global recognition and participation 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: Who Can Apply?

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 affiliated with a youth organization or program related to climate or the environment. Demonstrate a strong interest in Arctic and/or HKH environmental and climate issues. Possess leadership potential and involvement in volunteer work or climate-related activities. Be willing to collaborate with other youth climate networks. Demonstrate a commitment 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 one year. Have access to a laptop and a reliable internet connection. Hold a passport valid for at least six months after October 2025.

Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Interested applicants can apply through the online nomination form. The application requires the following steps:

Fill in your contact and personal information. Select your educational degree programs. Mention the youth-focused climate or environmental organization/program you are a member of. Attach all required supporting materials. Answer the additional information questions. Click ‘submit form’ to submit your application.

Required Documents: What You Need to Prepare

Applicants must submit the following documents as part of their application:

Curriculum Vitae (CV). One letter of endorsement. A short personal statement. A two-minute video pitch. A copy of your passport's personal information page.

Deadline and Application Link

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

For more information and to access the application form, please visit the official ICIMOD and Arctic Circle websites.

Analytical Viewpoint: Investing in Future Climate Leaders

"Programs like the Youth Leadership Forum are not simply about providing opportunities for individual growth; they represent a strategic investment in the future of climate action," states Dr. Ken Hewitt, a leading expert in mountain hazards and climate change adaptation. "By empowering young leaders with the knowledge, skills, and networks they need to address climate challenges, we are building a more resilient and sustainable future for all. The focus on both the Arctic and HKH regions is particularly significant, given their vulnerability to climate change and their critical role in global environmental systems."