IWA Emerging Water Leaders Forum 2026: Volunteer Programme Committee Opportunity for Young Water Professionals

The International Water Association (IWA) Secretariat is inviting Young Water Professionals (YWPs) with active IWA membership to volunteer as members of the Programme Committee (PC) for the 2026 Emerging Water Leaders (EWL) Forum.

The Forum will take place during the prestigious IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition scheduled for 4–8 October 2026 in Glasgow, United Kingdom.

This is a unique opportunity for early-career professionals in the global water sector to contribute to shaping one of the field’s most influential youth-focused events.

About the Volunteer Opportunity

The Programme Committee position is open to Young Water Professionals aged 35 years or below who hold an active IWA membership.

• This is a volunteer role and does not constitute a work agreement

• Committee meetings will be held online

• Travel, accommodation, and subsistence costs for attending meetings and the Forum are not covered by IWA

Key Responsibility

The Programme Committee’s core duty is to:

Design, develop, and ensure the quality of the scientific and technical programme for the 2026 IWA Emerging Water Leaders Forum.

Programme Committee Composition Criteria

To ensure diversity, representation, and inclusivity, the Programme Committee will be selected based on the following principles:

• Balanced geographical representation across continents

• Diversity between research and practice, including science, technology, and management

• Representation of both developed and developing country perspectives

• Wide technical expertise aligned with the topics of the IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition

• Gender balance

What is the IWA Emerging Water Leaders (EWL) Forum?

The EWL Forum is a dynamic platform designed to engage, empower, and connect young professionals in the water sector.

It offers:

• Professional networking opportunities

• Knowledge exchange and collaboration

• Skill-building sessions and leadership development

• Interactive formats such as workshops, seminars, panel discussions, and forums

The EWL Forum is hosted during major IWA events, including:

• IWA World Water Congress & Exhibition

• IWA Water and Development Congress & Exhibition

Why You Should Apply

Joining the Programme Committee offers Young Water Professionals a chance to:

• Contribute to a global water leadership platform

• Build international networks

• Strengthen leadership and programme development experience

• Play a role in shaping the future of water sector collaboration

Timeline for Applications and Selection

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

1. Complete the official application form

2. Review the available Programme Committee roles

3. Submit their application before the deadline

Application Deadline: 2 March 2026
 Successful applicants will be notified in late March 2026

Need More Information?

For any inquiries regarding this volunteer opportunity, Visit HERE

If you are a passionate young professional eager to influence the future of global water systems, this is your opportunity to step forward and lead.

Discover more Volunteering opportunities HERE