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. The initiative, jointly organized by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) and Arctic Circle, offers a unique opportunity for participants to engage in cross-regional collaboration, enhance their leadership skills, and contribute to climate solutions.

The selected youth leaders will participate in a year-long virtual fellowship program culminating in an in-person event in Reykjavik, Iceland, in October 2025. All expenses related to the Iceland event, including travel, accommodation, and participation costs, will be fully covered.

A Platform for Climate Action and Leadership Development

The HKH-Arctic Youth Leadership Forum aims to equip young individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable mountain and Arctic communities. The program will involve monthly online meetings, webinars, and workshops, providing a platform for participants to share experiences, develop solutions, and organize climate-related campaigns at local, regional, and global levels.

“This forum is crucial because it connects two regions facing similar climate-related challenges but often operating in silos,” explains Dr. Anya Sharma, a climate policy expert at the University of Oslo. “By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, the program can help develop more effective and context-specific climate solutions.”

Program Benefits and Opportunities

Participants in the Youth Leadership Forum will receive numerous benefits, including:

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 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 and Application Process

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 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 one year. Have access to a laptop and a reliable internet connection. Hold a passport valid for at least six months after October 2025.

The application process involves completing an online nomination form, providing personal information, selecting educational degree programs, and detailing involvement in relevant organizations. Applicants must also submit supporting documents, including a CV, a letter of endorsement, a short personal statement, a two-minute video pitch, and a copy of their passport’s personal information page.

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The establishment of the HKH-Arctic Youth Leadership Forum reflects a growing awareness of the interconnectedness of climate challenges across geographically distinct regions. Historically, the Arctic and the Hindu Kush Himalayas have been studied and addressed separately, despite facing similar threats from rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and changing weather patterns. This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering a more holistic and collaborative approach to climate action.

"Connecting the HKH and Arctic youth is not just about sharing knowledge; it's about building a global network of future leaders who understand the complexities of climate change and are committed to finding sustainable solutions," says Professor Kenji Tanaka, a specialist in Arctic Studies at Hokkaido University. "This program has the potential to create lasting impact by empowering young people to become agents of change in their communities and beyond."

Application Deadline and Further Information

The deadline to apply for the Youth Leadership Forum in Iceland 2025 is 31 July, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the official website for detailed information and application guidelines.

This fully funded opportunity represents a significant investment in the next generation of climate leaders and offers a unique platform for young individuals to make a tangible difference in addressing the global climate crisis.