The Global Leadership Challenge (GLC) 2025 is now open for applications. This prestigious program will convene 100 young leaders from around the world through a competitive selection process. The GLC is designed for postgraduate students and young professionals who are passionate about addressing complex global challenges and committed to developing themselves as responsible leaders.
GLC 2025 participants will engage in a transformative experience that combines leadership training, mentorship, and collaborative problem-solving with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Why Join the Global Leadership Challenge 2025?
Selected participants will gain access to unique opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Benefits of Participation
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Join a diverse, global community of responsible young leaders
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Engage with world-renowned academics, senior business executives, and policymakers
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Work on action projects addressing urgent global challenges using design thinking principles
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Learn to lead with responsibility, balancing personal ambition with societal good
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Receive an official Certificate of Achievement
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Benefit from leadership training and mentorship from the Oxford Character Project
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Compete for the chance to attend the 55th St. Gallen Symposium in May 2026 as a “Leader of Tomorrow”
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Currently enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program, or be a young professional aged 21–30 years
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Have completed undergraduate studies
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Demonstrated commitment to responsible leadership through extracurricular activities or work experience
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Willing to commit to five half-days of participation between 11–15 December 2025
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Active participation in all sessions is required to receive the Certificate of Achievement
Applications are welcome from all academic disciplines and from candidates worldwide.
Key Dates
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Applications Open: 26 September 2025
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Application Deadline: 2 November 2025
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Announcement of Selected Members: Mid-November 2025
2025 Challenge Theme: Sustainable Living at Scale
The 2025 challenge, hosted by the Schwarz Group, focuses on “Sustainable Living at Scale.” Participants will explore innovative solutions to help millions of people live healthier and more sustainable lives while maintaining affordability and accessibility. This challenge is closely tied to the group’s commitment to sustainability and healthier diets through its companies, including Lidl.
Application Requirements
Applicants must prepare the following materials:
Personal Information
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Contact details including address and email
Documents
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Curriculum Vitae (PDF)
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Recent portrait photo (JPEG or PNG)
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Proof of enrollment for students (PDF)
Questions and Video Submission
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Suggest a keynote speaker who could inspire global leaders
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Record a 40-second video message in English on responsible leadership
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Share one short example (maximum 50 words) of how you have personally practiced responsible leadership
Video Submission Guidelines
1. Upload your 40-second video (MP4 or MOV) to one of these platforms:
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YouTube (set to Unlisted)
2. Copy the shareable link.
3. Make sure the settings allow anyone with the link to view (no login, no password, no organization account required).
4. Paste the link in the designated field of your application form.
How to Apply
Applications are open until 2 November 2025. If you are ready to challenge yourself, grow as a responsible leader, and connect with peers and mentors from around the world, this is your chance.
Apply now to be part of the Global Leadership Challenge 2025 and join a new generation of leaders committed to responsibility, sustainability, and impact.