Applications are now open for the ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026, a fully funded international youth leadership program organized by the Asia-Europe Foundation (ASEF). This opportunity is designed for students and young professionals aged 18 to 30 from eligible Asian and European countries who are actively involved in youth organizations or student associations.
The program aims to empower young leaders by strengthening their leadership skills, helping them navigate uncertainty, and preparing them to create meaningful impact in their communities. Participants will join an engaging online training phase, followed by a community action phase, while selected participants will also receive an invitation to attend an exclusive leadership training in Tromsø, Norway, with all expenses covered.
This fully funded initiative offers a unique platform for youth to exchange ideas, contribute to policy recommendations, and build cross-cultural leadership networks between Asia and Europe.
Program Duration
The ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026 consists of two phases:
Online Training
- Dates: 9 June – 30 July 2026
- Mode: Online
Action Phase
- Dates: August – November 2026
- Mode: In local communities
Additionally, 40 outstanding participants based on active engagement during the online training will be invited to attend:
Leadership Training in Norway
- Program: Asia-Europe Youth Leadership Training: Anticipatory Leadership in the Arctic
- Dates: 23 – 29 August 2026
- Location: Tromsø, Norway
Financial Benefits
The ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026 is a fully funded program. ASEF covers all participation costs.
For the Online Training:
- No registration fee
- No participation fee
- Free training sessions
- Certificate upon completion
Estimated value: SGD 1,000 per participant
For the Norway Training:
Selected participants invited to Norway will receive:
- Full participation in the 5-day training program
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Travel subsidy from country of residence to Norway and back
Estimated value: SGD 6,500 per participant
This makes ASEFYLS an excellent opportunity for young leaders to gain international exposure without financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be 18 to 30 years old
- Be a citizen of an eligible Asian or European country
- Be actively playing a leading role in a youth organization or student association
- Have an excellent command of English, both spoken and written
Applicants do not need to be board members or executives, but they should demonstrate leadership involvement within their organization.
Selection Criteria
Applications will be evaluated based on:
- Originality and quality of the motivational statement
- Demonstrated leadership experience in youth or student organizations
- Ability to contribute to diversity of perspectives
- Potential to create impact in local communities
- Capacity to generate multiplier effects after the training
The organizers are looking for passionate youth leaders who can use this experience to bring positive change in their communities.
Application Process
Applicants are required to complete the official online application form and provide details about:
- Personal background
- Professional experience
- Motivation for joining the program
- Leadership experience
- Perspectives on the future and navigating uncertainty
Applicants must also upload an updated CV as part of the application.
The application form can be saved and resumed later, allowing applicants to complete it in multiple sessions.
Since the written responses and motivation statement are heavily weighted during selection, candidates are encouraged to prepare thoughtful and original answers.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026 is:
12 May 2026 at 23:59 UTC
Late applications will not be considered, so interested candidates should apply before the deadline.
Why You Should Apply
The ASEFYLS Capacity Training 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for young leaders to:
- Build leadership skills
- Connect with youth leaders across Asia and Europe
- Gain international exposure
- Influence youth policy recommendations
- Participate in a fully funded training in Norway
For students and young professionals passionate about leadership, policy, and community impact, this program offers valuable skills and networking opportunities.
Official Call: https://asiaeuropefoundation.formstack.com/forms/asefyls2026_applicationform
