The International Telecommunication Union Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP), organized in partnership with Huawei, is a global leadership initiative designed to empower young innovators working on digital development solutions. The programme supports young leaders who are creating community-driven projects that promote a more inclusive and sustainable digital future.
Through mentorship, leadership training, and financial support, GCYLP provides young changemakers with the resources needed to implement impactful digital projects in their communities. Each year, the programme selects 30 young fellows from around the world to participate in this unique leadership opportunity.
Programme Overview
The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme is designed to engage and inspire young people who are passionate about using digital technologies to solve real-world challenges. Participants receive training, mentorship, and funding to turn their innovative ideas into impactful projects.
The programme focuses on supporting initiatives that improve digital inclusion, technological innovation, and community development through digital solutions.
Programme Duration
The programme runs for approximately one year, during which fellows participate in training sessions, mentorship activities, and project development.
Fields of Focus
The programme primarily targets projects and participants in the following areas:
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Science
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Technology
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Engineering
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Mathematics (STEM)
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Digital innovation
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Digital development and inclusion
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Community-driven technology solutions
Applicants from closely related disciplines with strong digital project ideas are also encouraged to apply.
Eligible Nationalities
The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme is open to applicants from all countries worldwide. Young leaders from diverse regions are encouraged to apply and contribute their innovative ideas.
Programme Benefits
Selected fellows receive a comprehensive package of benefits that support their leadership development and project implementation.
Key benefits include:
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Initial grant of $5,000 USD to implement a digital development project
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Opportunity to receive an additional $5,000 USD for the most impactful projects
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Virtual mentorship from experts and industry professionals
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Leadership and skills development training sessions
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Networking opportunities with global digital leaders
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Participation in an in-person Global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland
Through these benefits, fellows gain the knowledge, funding, and global exposure needed to expand their digital initiatives.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Must be between 18 and 28 years old
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Must be currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a tertiary education programme in STEM or a related field
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Must demonstrate strong interest in digital development and community impact
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Must propose an innovative and feasible digital project aimed at benefiting their community
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Must have strong communication skills to participate in programme activities and training sessions
Applicants should also show leadership potential and commitment to driving positive change through digital innovation.
Application Process
Interested applicants can apply for the programme by following these steps:
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Prepare a Digital Project Proposal
Applicants must present a creative and impactful idea focused on digital development in their community. -
Complete the Online Application Form
Submit the application through the official programme portal. -
Provide Required Information and Supporting Materials
Applicants may need to include details about their academic background, project proposal, and motivation. -
Submit Before the Deadline
Applications must be submitted before the official programme deadline. -
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed by a global jury that evaluates the innovation, feasibility, and potential impact of the proposed projects.
Selection Process
Applications are assessed by an international panel of experts. Selection criteria typically include:
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Innovation and creativity of the project idea
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Potential community impact
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Feasibility and sustainability of the proposed project
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Applicant’s leadership potential and communication skills
Successful candidates are selected as GCYLP Fellows and receive support to implement their digital development initiatives.
Official Call: https://www.itu.int/generationconnect/empower/generation-connect-young-leadership-programme-in-partnership-with-huawei-v2/
