The applications are now open for the Global Youth Festival 2026 in Paris. Young leaders from around the world are invited to join the Global Youth Festival in Paris, France, from October 15 to 18, 2026. It is a four-day international youth leadership and
Dialogue Summit hosted by the Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance (HISA). It will bring together up to 500 young leaders, changemakers, and policy advocates from over 120 countries. Around 350 scholarships are open globally to anyone aged 18–40. It is one of the largest fully funded youth forums in Europe. More details are below.

Program Overview

• Location: Paris, France
• Program Dates: October 15 to 18, 2026
• Benefits: Fully Funded, Partial Funded
• Duration: 4 Days
• Deadline: 20th July 2026

About HISA

HISA has built its global reputation over six years of transformative events in cities including Washington, DC; Sydney; Milan; Brussels; Oxford; Cape Town; Bangkok; Istanbul; and beyond. GYF 2026 is the next chapter – and the most ambitious one yet.

Forum Themes

• Climate Action & Environmental Justice
• Education, Innovation & the Future of Work
• Entrepreneurship, Technology & Social Innovation
• Global Citizenship & Cultural Identity
• Governance, Democracy & Civic Participation
• Human Rights, Equality & Social Justice
• Mental Health, Well-being & Youth Resilience
• Peace, Diplomacy & Conflict Resolution

Scholarships & Benefits

100 Fully Funded Scholarships Cover:

• Round Airfare Support (Included only in fully funded)
• Full Visa Fee Reimbursement
• Shared Accommodation – 3 nights in Paris (Oct 15–18)
• Daily Breakfast and Forum Meals
• Full Festival Access – all sessions, workshops, and ceremonies
• Official HISA Merchandise & Welcome Kit
• Youth Statement Speaking Opportunity at the main assembly
• Official HISA Certification
• Mentorship Access

Eligibility Criteria

• Age Requirement:
  Applicants must be between 18 and 40 years old at the time of the event. Those outside this age range may still apply under paid categories.
• Nationality:
  Open to all nationalities. Applications are especially encouraged from underrepresented regions, including South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and the Pacific Islands.
• Language Requirement:
  A working proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required, as all program activities will be conducted in English.
• Background:
  No specific academic or professional background is required.
  Applicants from all fields are welcome, including:
  • Students & graduates
  • NGO workers
  • Civil servants
  • Entrepreneurs
  • Artists & activists
  • Researchers & young professionals
• Commitment:
  Selected participants must be available for the full 4-day program (15–18 October 2026) and actively participate in all sessions, workshops, and activities.

How to Apply for the Global Youth Festival 2026 in Paris?

Submit an online application and pay the application fees. The link is below.