Asia-Europe Foundation Young Leaders Summit Capacity Training 2026 offers young people a chance to build leadership skills. This funded program focuses on “Anticipatory Leadership for a Human-Centred Future.” It helps participants from Asia and Europe learn how to use future trends to guide actions today.
The ASEF Young Leaders Summit, or ASEFYLS, creates a network of youth leaders. It covers self-leadership, team leadership, and societal leadership. Participants gain curiosity, innovation, and cross-cultural skills to lead in their communities.
Program Overview
The ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026 runs from June to November 2026. It includes two main parts, plus an extra event for top participants.
First, there is online training from June 9 to July 30, 2026. This virtual phase teaches about anticipating future changes by studying trends and early signs, called “weak signals.” Participants connect with experts and speakers on human-centered leadership.
Next comes the action phase from August to November 2026. Here, people apply what they learn in their local communities. They start projects to spread ideas about anticipatory leadership.
For 40 selected participants, there is an in-person event: Asia-Europe Youth Leadership Training on Anticipatory Leadership in the Arctic. It takes place August 23 to 29, 2026, in Tromsø, Norway. Selection for this depends on strong performance in the online training.
Key Benefits
This program comes at no cost to participants. The Asia-Europe Foundation covers all expenses for the training. That includes certificates, accommodation, meals, and travel subsidies. The online training is worth about SGD 1,000 per person, fully funded by ASEF.
For those chosen for the Norway event, coverage is even more complete. ASEF pays for the five-day program, lodging, meals, and round-trip travel from your home country. This adds up to around SGD 6,500 per person.
Beyond funding, participants get real gains. They learn from top institutions and experts. They build networks with youth from Asia and Europe for future work. Finally, they take skills back home to create community impact and share knowledge on human-centered leadership.
Who Can Apply?
The program targets active young leaders aged 18 to 30. You must be a student or young professional. Citizens of ASEF partner countries in Asia and Europe qualify. Check the full list of eligible countries.
Key requirements include a leading role in a youth organization or student group. This does not limit to board members; active involvement counts. You need strong English skills for speaking and writing.
ASEF seeks people who engage in student life and want to grow skills for an uncertain world. They should plan to improve their communities.
Selection Process
Applications face close review by ASEF and partners. They give extra weight to a few areas.
A strong motivational statement stands out for originality and clear writing. Show your experience in societal leadership through youth or student groups. This brings diverse views to the group.
Judges also look for your ability to create impact. Think about how you multiply the program’s effects in your community.
How to Apply
The deadline is May 12, 2026. Submit your application online through the official form: apply here.
For full details, visit the ASEFYLS page.
Prepare answers that highlight your leadership and community plans. Strong applications show passion and clear ideas for using the training.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026?
It is a fully funded program by the Asia-Europe Foundation that teaches young leaders from Asia and Europe about anticipatory leadership for a human-centered future through online training and community projects.
Who can apply for the program?
Young leaders aged 18 to 30 who are students or professionals from ASEF partner countries in Asia and Europe, with active roles in youth or student groups and strong English skills, can apply.
What are the key dates for the program?
Online training runs from June 9 to July 30, 2026, followed by the action phase from August to November 2026; the application deadline is May 12, 2026.
How do I apply and what does it cost?
Submit your application online via the official form by May 12, 2026; the program is free, with ASEF covering all costs including training, travel, and accommodation for selected in-person participants.

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