Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF) Young Leaders Summit Capacity Training 2026 offers young people a chance to build leadership skills for the future. This funded program targets motivated youth from Asia and Europe. It focuses on “Anticipatory Leadership for a Human-Centred Future,” helping participants use trends and early signals to guide actions today.
Program Overview
The ASEF Young Leaders Summit Capacity Training 2026 is a youth leadership platform. It connects young people from Asia and Europe to grow in self-leadership, team leadership, and societal leadership. Participants join a learning journey that sparks curiosity, innovation, and cross-cultural understanding. The goal is to prepare them for leadership roles that drive community change.
This year’s theme teaches how to look ahead by studying trends and weak signals. These are small early signs of bigger changes. Through this, youth learn to make better decisions for a people-focused future.
Schedule and Locations
The program has two main parts, plus an extra chance for some participants.
Online Training: Runs from June 9 to July 30, 2026. All participants join this virtual phase to build skills.
Action Phase: From August to November 2026. Participants apply what they learn in their local communities.
Special In-Person Event: Up to 40 selected participants attend the Asia-Europe Youth Leadership Training on Anticipatory Leadership in the Arctic. This happens August 23-29, 2026, in Tromsø, Norway.
Key Benefits
There are no fees to join. ASEF covers all training costs, including certificates. For online parts, this includes materials and support. The value per person is about SGD 1,000.
For those selected for Norway, ASEF pays for the full program, lodging, meals, and travel from home. That event’s value is around SGD 6,500 per person.
Participants gain real skills:
- Learn from experts, institutions, and speakers on anticipatory leadership.
- Network with youth across Asia and Europe for future teamwork.
- Take ideas back home to spark local actions and spread knowledge.
Who Can Apply
This program suits active youth ready to lead in tough times. Check these requirements:
- Age 18-30, as students or young professionals.
- Citizen of an ASEF partner country in Asia or Europe.
- Lead a role in a youth group or student association.
- Strong English skills for speaking and writing.
Selectors prioritize:
- Unique motivation and clear answers in the application.
- Proven societal leadership in youth groups, adding diverse views.
- Potential to create real impact and inspire others.
How to Apply
The deadline is May 12, 2026. Submit your application online through the official form. Include a strong motivational statement and examples of your work. For full details, check the ASEF website.
This training equips young leaders to shape a better future through smart planning and community action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the ASEF Young Leaders Summit Capacity Training 2026?
You can apply if you are 18-30 years old, a citizen of an ASEF partner country in Asia or Europe, lead a youth group, and have strong English skills.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is May 12, 2026. Submit your application online through the official ASEF form.
What does the program cost?
There are no fees. ASEF covers all training costs, materials, and for selected participants, travel, lodging, and meals to the Norway event.
What is the program schedule?
Online training runs from June 9 to July 30, 2026, followed by an action phase from August to November. Up to 40 participants attend an in-person event in Tromsø, Norway, August 23-29.