Are you a young professional passionate about technology, AI, digital innovation, research, and related fields? Do you want to participate in one of the most anticipated international leadership opportunities taking place in China? The World Internet Conference (WIC) has officially opened applications for the Global Youth Leaders Program 2026 (GYLP), a fully funded international leadership opportunity for young professionals working in technology, digital innovation, internet governance, AI, policy, research, and related fields. Applications are being accepted from all nationalities.
Selected participants will travel to China in early November to attend the prestigious 2026 WIC Wuzhen Summit, connect with global technology leaders, participate in high-level discussions, and help shape the future of the digital world. Selected participants will receive comprehensive support, including an invitation to the WIC Wuzhen Summit, meals, round-trip airfare, networking opportunities, and more. No application fee is required. Interested candidates must submit their applications by July 24th, 2026. See more details below.
WIC Youth Leaders Program Overview
- Host Organization: World Internet Conference (WIC)
- Program: Global Youth Leaders Program (GYLP) 2026
- Location: Wuzhen, China
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Eligible Applicants: International applicants
- Application Deadline: 24 July 2026 (17:00 GMT+8)
About Global Youth Leaders Program 2026 (GYLP)
The Global Youth Leaders Programme is WIC’s flagship international youth initiative launched in 2023. The programme aims to identify and support talented young leaders making an impact in the internet and digital technology sector.
The Youth Leaders Programme focuses on 3 major pillars:
- Global Forums on internet governance and digital transformation
- Leadership Training with renowned experts and policymakers
- Research Collaboration on emerging internet technologies and governance
Benefits
The youth leaders will receive the following benefits:
- Official WIC Global Youth Leader Certificate
- Invitation to attend the 2026 WIC Wuzhen Summit
- Opportunity to speak on an international platform
- Round-trip airfare support
- Accommodation during the summit dates
- Meals during the summit
- Networking with senior government officials, international organizations, researchers, and leading technology companies
- Opportunities to organize future WIC youth activities
- Priority consideration for internships and employment opportunities within the World Internet Conference
Who can Apply?
- Open to all nationalities
- Be under 45 years of age at the time of application
- Support the mission of the World Internet Conference (WIC)
- Have achievements in at least one internet or ICT-related field
- Demonstrate leadership potential
- Show interdisciplinary thinking
- Have strong communication and public speaking skills
Professional Backgrounds:
It’s an ideal opportunity for applicants from the following professional backgrounds:
- Artificial Intelligence, Internet Governance, Cybersecurity, Digital Policy, Information Technology, Big Data, Digital Economy, Technology Entrepreneurship, Internet Startups, Government Digital Transformation, International Organizations, Academic Research, NGOs, Digital Inclusion, Digital Literacy, Public Interest Technology.
Required Documents:
- Complete online application form
- Recommendation letter from a recognized institution or professional
- Supporting documents (research papers, awards, patents, publications, etc.)
- Introduction video explaining:
- Your views on the WIC Global Youth Leaders Initiative
- Proposed project or activity
- Written transcript of the video.
Selection Process:
The selection process includes the following 4 stages:
- Application Submission
- Application review
- Selection Notification
- Participation in WIC Wuzhen Summit
Why You Should Apply?
- Opportunity to attend WIC Wuzhen Summit in China
- Opportunity to engage with influential voices and global experts in ICT
- Gain international recognition
- Expand your professional network
- Collaborate with experts from across the world.
- Amplify your voice on a global platform.
Application Deadline:
- All applications need to be submitted by July 24th, 2026.
Also, Check:
- ISFiT International Student Festival 2027 in Norway
- Climate Tech Fellowship 2027 (Virtual + Climate Week NYC)
- Singapore AI Safety Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)
How to Apply for WIC Global Youth Leadership Program?
Application needs to be submitted online; visit the offical link below, complete your application, upload all the required documents, and submit
APPLY FOR WIC YOUTH LEADERS PROGRAM
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