ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program (GCYLP) is an exciting initiative designed for young changemakers and digital leaders. The program aims to engage, inspire, and empower young individuals who are passionate about using technology for social impact. This international leadership program supports young leaders from around the world who propose innovative, creative, and feasible community-driven projects that contribute to building a more inclusive and empowered digital future.
The program is organized by the International Telecommunication Union in partnership with Huawei. Together, they provide guidance, training, mentorship, and financial support to 30 young leaders every year so they can implement digital development projects in their communities. Through this opportunity, participants can turn their digital ideas into practical solutions and expand the impact of their existing initiatives.
This global youth leadership program has been designed in a flexible format so participants can continue their studies or professional activities while taking part. The program runs for one year and includes approximately four hours of virtual programming each month, along with regular mentorship and project support sessions. Fellows will also participate in a one-week in-person global training week in Geneva, Switzerland and will be required to submit monthly project updates and attend bi-monthly meetings with the GCYLP team to support the implementation of their projects..
ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme | Training Week in Geneva + Up to $10,000 Grant
Host Country:
- Switzerland
Host Organization:
- International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with Huawei
Program Location:
-
Virtual Program + Geneva, Switzerland
Program Duration:
-
1 year program (virtual activities) + 1 week in-person training in Geneva
Check UNEP Young Champions of the Earth 2026 (Win $10,000 + Fully Funded USA Trip)
Benefits of ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program:
- Participants will receive year-long virtual mentorship and leadership training sessions from International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Huawei.
- Selected candidates will have the opportunity to participate in an in-person Global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland.
- Participants can receive a grant of up to $10,000 USD to implement a digital development project of their choice.
- All 30 selected participants will receive an initial $5,000 USD grant to begin implementing their digital development project.
- The most impactful projects will receive an additional $5,000 USD grant at the end of the program to support scaling efforts
Eligibility Criteria for ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program:
- Applicants should be between 18 and 28 years old.
- Applicants should be interested in creating real impact in their communities by leading their own digital development project.
- Applicants should be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a tertiary education institution in a STEM program (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or a related field.
- Applicants should be able to communicate in English, as the program is conducted in English.
- Applicants cannot apply as a team. Only individual applications will be considered.
Check SI Global Executive Program in Sweden 2026 (Leadership & Sustainability Program in Sweden)
How to apply for ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program:
Here is the corrected version in your simple Scholarships Corner style:
- Apply through the online application form.
- Enter your personal details and contact information.
- Provide your academic background details.
- Mention if you have any postgraduate academic experience.
- Write a short biography and describe your experience related to digital development issues.
- State your motivation for applying to this program.
- Mention whether you are proposing a new project or an existing project.
- Explain your digital development project idea clearly.
- Select the ITU region where you plan to implement your project.
- Read the terms and conditions carefully, agree to them, and submit your application.
Documents required for ITU Generation Connect Young Leadership Program:
- CV or Resume
- Passport copy
- Laptop (required to participate in the virtual program)
- Project details or project proposal
- Educational transcript or graduation certificate
- Any other relevant supporting documents
Program Deadline:
- The last date to apply is 31st March, 2026.





