Paris, France · October 15 – 18, 2026
HOSTED BY HISA
Lead. Dialogue. Inspire.
GLOBAL YOUTH FESTIVAL 2026
Paris has always been a city of ideas – and in October 2026, it becomes the stage for the world’s youth to shape the future. The Global Youth Festival 2026 is HISA’s most ambitious programme to date: four transformative days of leadership, cross-cultural exchange, and meaningful dialogue at the heart of one of the world’s most iconic capitals. If you are ready to speak up, connect globally, and drive real change – Paris is waiting.
Official HISA Certification · Paris, France
Countries
Representations
Speakers
expert voices
Days
immersive
Scholarships
awards
GLOBAL YOUTH FESTIVAL 2026
Paris has always been a city of ideas – and in October 2026, it becomes the stage for the world’s youth to shape the future. The Global Youth Festival 2026 is HISA’s most ambitious programme to date: four transformative days of leadership, cross-cultural exchange, and meaningful dialogue at the heart of one of the world’s most iconic capitals. If you are ready to speak up, connect globally, and drive real change – Paris is waiting.
Official HISA Certification · Paris, France
Countries
Representations
Speakers
expert voices
Days
immersive
Scholarships
awards
WHAT IS THE GLOBAL YOUTH FESTIVAL 2026?
An International Celebration of Youth Leadership - Hosted in the City of Light.
The Global Youth Festival 2026 (GYF 2026) is HISA’s flagship international summit, bringing together young leaders, changemakers, and visionaries from over 120 countries for four days of policy dialogue, creative workshops, mentorship, cultural exchange, and leadership programming – all set in Paris, France.
HISA has built its global reputation across 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.
This is not just a conference. It is a movement. A space where young people are not talked at – they are listened to, challenged, and equipped to lead. Delegates leave Paris with a globally recognised certification, a lifelong international network, and the clarity to create change in their communities.
What We Aim to Achieve.
Six Objectives at the Core of GYF 2026
GYF 2026 is built around six commitments that drive every session, workshop, and conversation throughout the festival.
Amplify Youth Voice in Global Decision-Making
Young people deserve a seat at the table – not just as observers, but as contributors. GYF 2026 creates structured platforms for delegates to engage in real policy conversations that matter.
Foster Cross-Cultural Dialogue and Understanding
With delegates from 120+ countries in one room, GYF 2026 is a rare opportunity to learn from perspectives that challenge and enrich your own. Genuine dialogue starts here.
Build Practical Leadership and Diplomacy Skills
From negotiation simulations to public speaking platforms, every element of GYF 2026 is designed to equip delegates with hands-on skills they can apply the moment they return home.
Advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
Every theme at GYF 2026 connects youth action to the UN’s 2030 Agenda – because sustainable change requires both local commitment and global alignment.
Create Lasting International Networks
The connections made in Paris will last a lifetime. Delegates join a growing HISA alumni community of thousands of changemakers across six continents.
Celebrate Youth Culture, Creativity, and Identity
Leadership is not one-dimensional. GYF 2026 celebrates the full spectrum of who young people are – their cultures, stories, creativity, and vision for the world.
The Conversations That Will Define GYF 2026.
Eight Themes. One Festival. Unlimited Impact.
Climate Action & Environmental Justice
The climate crisis is a youth crisis. Delegates explore green policy, environmental advocacy, and how young people can lead the global transition to a sustainable future.
Peace, Diplomacy & Conflict Resolution
Dialogue is the most powerful tool a generation can carry. This theme examines how youth can contribute to peacebuilding, mediation, and diplomacy – locally and on the world stage.
Education, Innovation & the Future of Work
AI, automation, and shifting economies are rewriting what it means to learn and work. Delegates workshop bold ideas for reimagining education and creating opportunity for all.
Governance, Democracy & Civic Participation
Change begins with citizens who refuse to be passive. This theme dives into youth participation in political systems, democratic resilience, and digital-age civic engagement.
Human Rights, Equality & Social Justice
GYF 2026 creates space for honest, courageous conversations about gender equity, racial justice, and the full breadth of the human rights landscape – and the role youth play as advocates.
Technology & Social Innovation
Across the globe, young entrepreneurs are solving real problems from the ground up. This theme spotlights youth-led startups, tech-for-good initiatives, and the communities being transformed by social innovation.
Global Citizenship & Cultural Identity
What does it mean to be a citizen of the world without losing your roots? This theme explores the powerful relationship between local identity and global belonging.
Mental Health, Well-being & Youth Resilience
The global mental health crisis among young people can no longer be ignored. Delegates engage with advocates, practitioners, and peers to explore what resilient, mentally healthy communities look like – and how to build them.
Who Can Apply?
GYF 2026 is Open to Young Leaders Worldwide.
We do not select on grades or titles. We select on motivation, vision, and potential.
AGE
Between 18 and 40 years of age
Applicants must be between 18 and 40 years of age at the time of the event. Those outside this range may register under Paid Categories.
NAT
All nationalities welcome
GYF 2026 welcomes applicants of all nationalities. HISA especially encourages applications from underrepresented regions including Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and the Pacific Islands.
LNG
Working proficiency in English
All programme activities are conducted in English. A working proficiency in spoken and written English is required.
BKG
No specific background required
No specific academic or professional background is required. Students, graduates, NGO workers, civil servants, entrepreneurs, artists, activists, researchers, and young professionals from every field are welcome to apply.
CMT
Full four-day commitment
Selected delegates are expected to attend the full four-day programme from October 15 to 18, 2026 and actively participate in all sessions, workshops, and activities.
WHAT HISA LOOK FOR.
- A genuine passion for positive change
- A clear personal vision and evidence of community impact
- Leadership experience - formal or informal
- Openness to cross-cultural dialogue and collaboration
- A commitment to bringing the GYF experience back to your community
How Are Delegates Selected?
A Transparent, Merit-Based Process.
01
Submit Your Application
Apply online at headwayinstitute.org. Your application includes a motivation statement and a brief description of a project or initiative you have contributed to.
02
Review by the HISA Admissions Committee
Every application is reviewed after the programme deadline. The committee assesses motivation, vision, leadership potential, and the overall diversity of the delegate cohort.
03
Acceptance & Onboarding
Successful applicants receive an official acceptance letter by email, followed by visa support documentation, a welcome pack, and access to the GYF 2026 delegate community.
350 Scholarship Awards.
GYF 2026 - Paris, France
HISA is committed to making global leadership accessible. That is why we are proud to offer 350 Scholarship Awards for GYF 2026 – one of the largest scholarship programmes of any international youth event in the world.
Submit one application. Get considered for all three categories at once.
Fully Funded Global Scholar
The most prestigious award at GYF 2026. Reserved for exceptional delegates who demonstrate outstanding leadership, community impact, and the potential to represent their country and generation on the global stage.
100 Awards · Everything Covered
- Round Airfare Support
- 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
Partially Funded Scholar
Awarded to delegates with strong leadership promise. HISA covers your complete in-programme experience – you arrange your own travel to Paris.
100 Awards — Your Stay, Fully Covered.
- Shared Accommodation - 4 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
Festival Pass Scholar
For motivated young leaders who can make their own way to Paris. Once you arrive, HISA takes care of the rest.
150 Awards · Festival Experience Fully Covered
- 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
Not Applying for Scholarship?
Join on your own terms with flexible paid packages.
We do not select on grades or titles. We select on motivation, vision, and potential.
$99
INVITATION LETTER
- Forum Letter & Official Invitation
- Opportunity to Pay Later
- Upgrade Options Available
- Visa Documentation Support
- Embassy Email Notification
$299
FORUM ACCESS PASS
- Invitation Letter & Visa Support
- Forum Meals
- Forum & Networking Access
- Official Certification
- Forum Merchandise
- Speaking Opportunity
$499
SELF FUNDED PACKAGE
- Shared Accommodation
- Visa Support Documents
- Forum Meals & Daily Breakfast
- Forum & Networking Access
- Official Certification
- Forum Merchandise
- Speaking Opportunity
HISA's Global Track Record.
Six Years. Six Continents
GYF 2026 is built on a proven foundation. Since 2022, HISA has brought young leaders together across the globe – creating lasting impact with every event.
HISA Youth Dialogue 2026 Sydney, Australia
The HISA Youth Dialogue 2026 brings together young leaders, changemakers, and visionaries from around the world for four transformative days in Sydney, Australia.
Future Diplomats Forum 2025 Washington DC, USA
The Future Diplomats Forum 2025, hosted by HISA – Public Policy Research Institute, is a four-day event in Washington, DC, designed to empower the next generation of global leaders.
International Volunteer Forum 3.0 Istanbul, Turkey
The third edition of HISA’s signature volunteerism forum. Youth leaders gathered to share stories, forge partnerships, and design bold solutions to the global civic engagement crisis.
HISA Youth Fellowship Oxford, United Kingdom
An international leadership certification experience in one of the world’s most storied academic cities – combining intellectual rigour with HISA’s signature approach to youth development.
UN SDGs Forum 2024 Bangkok, Thailand
Sixty-plus countries. Seventeen goals. One powerful youth declaration – shared with regional UN agencies and carried home by delegates committed to making it real.
Global Youth Convention 2024 Cape Town, South Africa
A landmark event on the African continent. GYC 2024 became one of HISA’s most celebrated editions – culturally rich, personally transformative, and unforgettable.
HISA Youth Dialogue 2023 Madrid, Spain
The event that cemented HISA’s standing as one of the world’s premier platforms for youth diplomacy. Delegates from every region. Conversations that mattered.
A Legacy of Global Events
- Future Diplomats Forum 2025 - Washington DC
- HISA Youth Dialogue 2024 - Budapest
- World Policy Conference 2024 - Cape Town
- Global Youth Convention 2024 - Cape Town
- Global Youth Convention 2023 - Morocco
- International Volunteer Forum 2022 - Istanbul
- Global Youth Convention 2025 - Milan
- HISA Impact Cruise 2024 - Italy, Spain, France
- UN SDGs Forum 2024 - Bangkok
- International Volunteer Forum 2023 - Istanbul
- HISA Egypt Dialogue 2023 - Egypt
What Our Delegates Say
Destin MANARIYO
Founder/CEO of IGIS
Amal Tatay
Business Analytics & Marketing Student
Roumaissa Khadidja MOSBAH
Creative English Teacher | TEFL-Certified | Curriculum Developer
Rauf Hasanzade
Student at International Maarif Schools Of Bucharest
Remus Sabadas
International Relations PhD Student
Lord Justice Okanta Kumi
Multidisciplinary Project Manager
GYF in Action
Why Paris?
The Perfect Stage for Global Youth Leadership.
Paris is not just a city. It is an idea.
As the birthplace of the Declaration of the Rights of Man, home of the Paris Climate Agreement, and one of the world’s great capitals of culture, diplomacy, and intellectual life – Paris does not just host conversations about the future. It has always been where the future is written.
When young leaders gather in Paris, they are not attending a conference. They are joining a centuries-long conversation about the future of humanity.
Diplomatic Heritage
Home to UNESCO, the OECD, and dozens of international organisations
Cultural Richness
A city that has inspired artists, philosophers, revolutionaries, and leaders for centuries.
European Access
A gateway to the European Union and its institutions.
Symbolic Power
A city whose name is inseparable from freedom, dialogue, and human rights.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Everything You Need to Know About GYF 2026.
What is the Global Youth Festival 2026?
The Global Youth Festival 2026 is HISA’s flagship international youth leadership summit, taking place in Paris, France from October 15 to 18, 2026. It brings together over 500 delegates from 120+ countries for four days of workshops, keynotes, cultural exchange, and leadership programming.
When and where does GYF 2026 take place?
GYF 2026 runs from October 15 to 18, 2026, in Paris, France. The venue will be confirmed and shared with registered delegates ahead of the event.
Who organises GYF 2026?
GYF 2026 is organised by HISA – the Headway Institute of Strategic Alliance – a global youth leadership and public policy organisation with operations in the USA, UAE, and Europe.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted online at headwayinstitute.org. You will complete a motivation statement and briefly describe a project or initiative you have been involved in. One application considers you for all three scholarship categories.
Is there an application fee?
Yes. A non-refundable application fee applies to all scholarship categories. For paid participation categories, fees are refundable in line with HISA’s Refund Policy at headwayinstitute.org/refund-policy. Please review the policy before applying.
What is the age requirement?
Applicants must generally be between 18 and 40 at the time of the event. Exceptional candidates outside this range may be considered case by case.
Can I apply if I am not from Europe?
Absolutely. GYF 2026 is open to all nationalities. HISA actively encourages applications from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and the Pacific Islands. Visa support is provided to all accepted delegates.
How many scholarships are available?
HISA is offering 350 scholarships across three tiers: 100 Fully Funded Global Scholar awards, 100 Partially Funded Scholar awards and 150 Festival Pass Scholar awards.
What does the programme include?
Four days of keynote addresses, thematic workshops, youth statement sessions, leadership simulations, policy labs, mentorship roundtables, cultural exchange, a Paris city experience, and a closing ceremony with official HISA certification.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. All delegates who complete the full programme receive an official HISA certification, recognised globally within HISA’s network.
Do I need experience in diplomacy or leadership?
Not at all. GYF 2026 welcomes anyone with genuine passion for change, global dialogue, and community impact. Motivation and potential matter more than formal credentials.
What language is used?
All sessions and activities are conducted in English. Working proficiency in spoken and written English is required.
Will HISA help with my visa?
Yes. HISA provides official invitation letters and visa support documentation to all accepted delegates. Self-funded and festival access applicants receive visa support within 24 to 48 hours of registration.
Is accommodation included?
Accommodation is included for Fully Funded, Partially Funded, and Self-Funded category delegates.
Can I speak at GYF 2026?
Yes. Most participation categories include a Youth Statement opportunity – a short address to the full delegate assembly. Speaking opportunities are also available for sponsors, partners, and invited experts.
How many delegates will attend?
GYF 2026 is designed for up to 500 delegates from 120+ countries. Paid seats are limited and allocated on a rolling basis.
What is HISA's refund and cancellation policy?
The full policy is available at headwayinstitute.org/refund-policy. Review it carefully before completing your registration.
How do I stay updated?
Follow HISA on Instagram (@headway.isa), Facebook (headway.isa), and LinkedIn (HISA – Public Policy Research Institute). Subscribe to the newsletter at headwayinstitute.org.