Are you a young leader eager to shape the future and create meaningful change in your community? The ASEF Young Leaders Summit (ASEFYLS) Capacity Training 2026 is now accepting applications for its latest cohort. This dynamic programme empowers youth from Asia and Europe to develop leadership skills, explore future-thinking strategies, and drive real-world impact.
What is ASEFYLS?
The ASEF Young Leaders Summit (ASEFYLS) is a youth platform designed to build a strong network of young leaders across Asia and Europe. It offers a transformative learning journey focused on:
- Self-leadership (You)
- Team leadership (We)
- Societal leadership (All)
The programme fosters curiosity, innovation, and intercultural understanding—equipping participants with the tools to become forward-thinking leaders who can drive sustainable and inclusive change.
At the heart of ASEFYLS 2026 is the concept of Anticipatory Leadership—the ability to use insights about the future to inform present decisions. This includes analyzing trends, identifying emerging signals, and adapting leadership approaches to build more equitable and sustainable societies.
Programme Theme: Anticipatory Leadership for a Human-Centred Future
The 2026 edition will focus on “Anticipatory Leadership for a Human-Centred Future.” Participants will explore how to:
- Analyze trends and weak signals
- Apply strategic foresight and systems thinking
- Understand the ethical implications of emerging technologies like AI
- Lead with inclusivity and sustainability in mind
Why You Should Apply
Learn
Gain insights from leading institutions, thematic experts, and high-level speakers on future-focused leadership.
Network
Connect with like-minded young leaders from across Asia and Europe and build long-term partnerships.
Take Action
Apply your knowledge in your local community through impactful grassroots initiatives.
What to Expect in ASEFYLS 2026
The programme runs from June to November 2026 and includes the following phases:
1. Training Phase (Online)
9 June – 30 July 2026
- Participate in interactive online sessions (approx. 4 hours per week)
- Learn about anticipatory leadership, systems thinking, and foresight tools
- Explore how technology influences ethical and inclusive leadership
2. Action Phase (Local Implementation)
August – November 2026
- Organize multiplier events in your local community
- Share knowledge and drive impact at the grassroots level
- Translate theory into real-world action
3. Optional In-Person Training (Selected Participants)
Asia-Europe Youth Leadership Training: Anticipatory Leadership in the Arctic
Tromsø, Norway
23 – 29 August 2026
- 40 participants will be selected based on engagement
- Dive deeper into anticipatory leadership using the Arctic as a case study
- Engage in cross-cultural exchange and expert dialogues
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of eligible Asian or European countries
- Be 18–30 years old (students or young professionals)
- Be actively involved in youth or student organizations
- Demonstrate leadership and community engagement
- Have strong English communication skills
Selection will be based on motivation, leadership experience, and potential to create impact in local communities.
Programme Benefits
- No registration or participation fees
- Travel subsidies (for selected participants)
- Accommodation and meals covered during in-person training
- Access to a global network of young leaders
- Hands-on leadership and future-thinking training
Commitment Required
Participants are expected to:
- Attend 2 online sessions per week during the training phase
- Complete self-paced assignments
- Organize community-based multiplier events
- (If selected) Participate in the in-person training in Norway
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official programme portal.
Deadline 12 May 2026!
Pro Tip
Highlight your community impact and leadership experience in your application. Showcase how you plan to apply anticipatory leadership in solving real challenges in your local context.
Register Here, For FAQ Webinar
ASEFYLS 2026 is more than just a training programme—it’s a platform to reimagine the future and actively shape it. If you’re passionate about leadership, innovation, and making a difference, this is your opportunity to join a global movement of changemakers.
Discover similar opportunities here.
