The Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance (HISA) is hosting the Global Youth Festival 2026 (GYF 2026), a four-day international youth leadership and policy debate event that will take place in Paris, France from October 15–18, 2026.
Up to 500 young leaders, innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and changemakers from over 120 nations will attend the conference. Through high-level discussions, policy simulations, leadership development workshops, cultural exchange, and mentorship engagement, the initiative aims to strengthen global youth leadership.
GYF 2026 is one of the most accessible international youth leadership forums in the world thanks to HISA’s 350 scholarship prizes in several categories. connections, participants will obtain invaluable international exposure.
Eligibility Criteria :
- Age: 18–40 years at the time of the event
- Open to all nationalities
- No specific academic qualification required
- Open to students, graduates, professionals, NGO workers, entrepreneurs, artists, activists, researchers, and civil servants
- Strong interest in leadership, civic engagement, or social impact
- English proficiency required (programme conducted in English)
Event Details :
- Event Name: Global Youth Festival 2026
- Host Country: France
- City: Paris
- Dates: October 15–18, 2026
- Deadline: July 20, 2026
- Organizer: Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance (HISA)
- Participants: 500 delegates from 120+ countries
Programme Benefits :
- International leadership training
- Networking with global changemakers
- Cultural exchange in Paris
- Official HISA certificate
- Participation in policy dialogues and workshops
- Access to mentorship and global youth community
Scholarship Categories (350 Total Awards) :
HISA offers three types of scholarship support:
- 100 Fully Funded Global Scholar Awards
(Full coverage including participation, accommodation, meals, and programme access) - 100 Partial Scholarship Awards
(Significant reduction in programme fees and support benefits) - 150 Festival Access Scholarships
(Basic access to sessions, workshops, and selected events)
Programme Themes :
- Climate Action & Environmental Justice
- Peace, Diplomacy & Conflict Resolution
- Education, Innovation & Future of Work
- Governance & Civic Participation
- Human Rights & Social Justice
- Entrepreneurship & Technology
- Global Citizenship & Culture
- Mental Health & Youth Well-being
