Fully Funded Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland to Address Climate Challenges

Applications are now open for the Youth Leadership Forum 2025, a fully funded program offering young leaders a unique opportunity to collaborate on climate solutions. The forum, a joint initiative by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and the Arctic Circle, will commence with a year-long virtual fellowship culminating in an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025. This initiative aims to empower youth from the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and Arctic regions to become effective climate advocates and leaders.

A Platform for Cross-Regional Collaboration

The program seeks to foster collaboration between young leaders from two regions acutely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change: the HKH and the Arctic. Twelve fellows will be selected to participate in monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops, and will also spearhead local, regional, and global campaigns addressing climate issues. The fully funded fellowship covers all expenses related to the in-person event in Iceland, including travel, accommodation, and participation costs.

Benefits and Opportunities for Young Leaders

Participants in the Youth Leadership Forum will gain valuable skills and knowledge related to climate action and leadership. The benefits of the program include:

Full funding for the in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland. Access to capacity-building and training sessions led by climate experts. 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 Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading climate policy analyst at the Global Youth Climate Network, emphasizes the critical role of youth in addressing climate change. "Young people are not just the inheritors of this planet; they are active agents of change. Their fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and unwavering commitment are essential to developing and implementing effective climate solutions. Programs like the Youth Leadership Forum provide invaluable platforms for them to connect, learn, and lead."

Eligibility Criteria

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

Be aged 19–35 years. Be citizens of an HKH or Arctic country. Be affiliated with a youth organization or program related to climate or environment. Demonstrate a strong interest in Arctic and/or HKH environmental and climate issues. Possess leadership potential and be involved in volunteer work or climate-related activities. Be willing 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 reliable internet connection. Possess a passport valid for at least 6 months after October 2025.

Application Process

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

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

Historical and Current Context of Climate Action Scholarships

Scholarships and leadership programs focused on climate action have seen a significant rise in recent years, reflecting the growing urgency of addressing climate change and the increasing recognition of the importance of youth involvement. Historically, environmental scholarships were often focused on traditional fields like ecology and conservation. However, contemporary programs like the Youth Leadership Forum demonstrate a shift towards interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating leadership development, policy advocacy, and community engagement. This evolution reflects the understanding that tackling climate change requires multifaceted solutions and the empowerment of future leaders.

Deadline

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

For more information and to apply, visit the official link provided by ICIMOD and Arctic Circle.

Analytical Viewpoint: Building a Sustainable Future Through Youth Empowerment Professor Lars Erikson, a researcher specializing in Arctic policy at the University of Oslo, notes that investing in youth leadership is paramount for a sustainable future. "The Arctic and HKH regions are bellwethers of climate change, experiencing its effects disproportionately. By empowering young people from these regions with the skills, knowledge, and networks they need to address these challenges, we are not only fostering immediate action but also building a foundation for long-term resilience and sustainability."