AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme 2026 for Young People Living With HIV, Activists and Researchers
The International AIDS Society (IAS) has officially opened applications for the AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme, a prestigious international opportunity designed to empower young people living with HIV, youth activists, and emerging researchers in the global HIV response ecosystem.
The programme is part of the 26th International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2026) and aims to strengthen youth leadership, advocacy, networking, innovation, and career development within the HIV and public health sector.
Young leaders selected for the programme will gain direct exposure to global HIV experts, researchers, policymakers, advocates, and scientists while participating in a specially curated leadership and mentorship curriculum during the conference.
This initiative represents a major opportunity for young professionals and advocates passionate about HIV research, public health, social justice, activism, and global health leadership.
About the AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme
The Young Leaders Programme is an initiative offered at both the International AIDS Conference and the IAS Conference on HIV Science. It was created to support the next generation of leaders working in HIV advocacy, healthcare, research, and community mobilization.
The programme seeks to provide young participants with practical exposure, professional connections, mentorship, and opportunities to actively contribute to global conversations around HIV prevention, treatment, advocacy, policy, and innovation.
Selected Young Leaders will participate in exclusive sessions designed to build leadership capacity and foster collaboration among young change-makers from around the world.
The programme particularly supports:
- Young people living with HIV
- Young activists
- Young researchers
- Emerging public health leaders
- Youth advocates working in HIV-related fields
What Participants Will Gain
Young Leaders selected for AIDS 2026 will benefit from an extensive learning and networking experience that goes beyond traditional conference participation.
Programme Benefits Include:
- Meetings With Global HIV Leaders
Participants will engage directly with leading scientists, researchers, policymakers, advocates, and AIDS 2026 featured speakers. - Innovation Workshops
Young Leaders will participate in collaborative workshops designed to help develop innovative ideas and solutions related to HIV advocacy, healthcare delivery, prevention, and research. - One-on-One Career Forum
Participants will receive personalized career guidance and mentorship focused on professional pathways within the HIV and public health sector. - International Networking Opportunities
The programme provides access to a global network of:
- Young activists
- Researchers
- Community advocates
- Public health professionals
- Youth leaders living with HIV
- Leadership Development
Young Leaders will strengthen their:
- Advocacy skills
- Public engagement capacity
- Research communication
- Leadership competencies
- Collaborative problem-solving skills
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Must be aged 29 years or younger
- Must be registered to attend AIDS 2026 in person
- Must be interested or active in HIV advocacy, research, activism, or community engagement
- Must apply through their conference profile
The programme welcomes applications from young individuals with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Important Dates
Application Opening Date
4 May 2026
Application Deadline
18 May 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute technical challenges.
How to Apply
Applications for the AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme must be submitted through the applicant’s official conference profile.
Application Process
- Register to attend AIDS 2026 in person
- Access your conference profile
- Complete the Young Leaders Programme application
- Submit before the deadline
Official Application Link
Why This Opportunity Matters
The HIV response movement has always been strengthened by youth leadership and community-driven innovation. The AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme provides a platform for young people to:
- Influence global discussions
- Build meaningful partnerships
- Advance their careers
- Share lived experiences
- Contribute to solutions that improve health outcomes worldwide
For many participants, this programme can become a gateway to long-term involvement in international health leadership, research collaborations, and advocacy initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Young Leaders Receive Funding?
Applicants are encouraged to consult the official FAQs for information regarding funding and support.
How Many Young Leaders Will Be Selected?
The IAS has not publicly specified the exact number of selected participants.
Where Can Applicants Ask Questions?
For additional inquiries:
YouthHub@iasociety.org
About the International AIDS Society (IAS)
The International AIDS Society is one of the world’s leading independent associations of HIV professionals. Through conferences, scientific engagement, advocacy, and community programmes, IAS works to accelerate the global HIV response and improve access to research, treatment, prevention, and care.
The AIDS Conference remains one of the largest global gatherings focused on HIV science, policy, activism, and public health collaboration.
Final Thoughts
The AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme is more than just a conference opportunity—it is a leadership platform for the next generation of HIV advocates, researchers, and changemakers.
Young people who are passionate about HIV advocacy, community impact, healthcare innovation, public health research, and global leadership should strongly consider applying for this transformative programme.
With access to international experts, networking opportunities, innovation workshops, and career mentorship, participants will gain valuable experience that can shape their future impact in the global health sector.
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