Young professionals working in internet technology, digital innovation and information and communication technology (ICT) have been invited to apply for the 2026 World Internet Conference (WIC) Global Youth Leadership Program (GYLP), a fully funded initiative designed to empower the next generation of global digital leaders. Applications are open until 24 July 2026, with successful candidates set to participate in a series of international leadership activities, including the prestigious 2026 WIC Wuzhen Summit in China.
Launched in 2023, the Global Youth Leadership Program has become one of the flagship initiatives of the World Internet Conference. The program seeks to identify exceptional young professionals who are making significant contributions to internet development, artificial intelligence, digital governance, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship and other technology-related fields. Through leadership development, international collaboration and policy dialogue, the initiative aims to build a network of young innovators committed to creating a shared digital future.
According to the World Internet Conference, the program focuses on three key pillars: forum, training and research. Selected participants will attend global forums where they can engage with policymakers, technology executives, researchers and international organizations on emerging digital issues. They will also participate in specialized leadership training and contribute to research that informs discussions on internet governance and technological innovation.
One of the program's major highlights is participation in the 2026 WIC Wuzhen Summit, where successful applicants will receive an opportunity to attend the Youth Forum and engage with influential figures from governments, multinational technology companies, academia and international institutions. Selected Global Youth Leaders may also receive support for round-trip airfare, accommodation and meals, making the program fully funded for eligible participants.
"The program aims to select outstanding young people in the global Internet field on a regular basis and build an international exchange and cooperation platform for young people to learn from each other,"
the World Internet Conference states in its program description.
In addition to attending the summit, participants will receive an official Global Youth Leader Certificate issued by the World Internet Conference. They will also gain opportunities to organize workshops and youth-led activities at future WIC events, while outstanding projects may receive institutional support and international recognition. The program further provides priority access to internship and employment opportunities within the World Internet Conference, helping participants expand their professional careers in the global digital sector.
Eligibility for the program is open to applicants under the age of 45 who have demonstrated achievements in internet-related or ICT-related fields. Eligible candidates may come from government institutions, international organizations, universities, research centers, technology companies, startups, civil society organizations and digital innovation ecosystems. Applicants are expected to possess leadership potential, an international outlook and a commitment to advancing cooperation in cyberspace.
Applicants are required to complete an online application and submit supporting documents, including a recommendation letter from a recognized institution, evidence of professional achievements such as publications, patents or awards, and a short introduction video outlining their views on the WIC Global Youth Leaders Initiative and proposed activities. The selection process includes eligibility screening, expert evaluation and final review before successful candidates are announced later in the year.
"Selected Global Youth Leaders will engage in international exchanges with governments, enterprises, academic institutions and global organizations while contributing to discussions shaping the future of the Internet," the organizers noted.
The program has continued to expand its global reach since its launch. Over the past three years, 56 Global Youth Leaders from 38 countries and regions have participated, while the 2025 edition attracted applications from nearly 120 countries and regions, reflecting growing international interest in digital leadership and global internet governance.
For African youth, particularly those working in artificial intelligence, digital entrepreneurship, software engineering, cybersecurity and technology policy, the Global Youth Leadership Program presents an opportunity to gain international exposure, build cross-border collaborations and contribute African perspectives to discussions shaping the future of the digital economy. As Africa's digital transformation accelerates, initiatives such as the WIC Global Youth Leadership Program are expected to strengthen the participation of young innovators in addressing global technology challenges while fostering sustainable development through digital innovation. Applications close on 24 July 2026.