Are you a young visionary aged 18 to 28 with a passion for digital development? The Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP), in partnership with Huawei, is now accepting applications for its second cohort. This initiative aims to engage, empower, and inspire young digital leaders and changemakers worldwide. It supports innovative, community-driven projects that strive for a more inclusive and empowered digital future.
This article will provide you with a comprehensive overview about this exciting opportunity.
GCYLP 2025 Summary
Location: Virtual (with an in-person event in Geneva, Switzerland)
Host Institution: International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in partnership with Huawei
Programme Type: Leadership programme
Target Group: Young individuals aged 18-28
Fields of Focus: Digital development projects
Award Value & Coverage: Up to $10,000 USD grant, mentorship, training, and participation in global events
Duration: One year
Application Deadline: 31 March 2025
Eligible to: Young individuals aged 18-28, enrolled in or recently graduated from a STEM or related programme
Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP) Overview
The GCYLP provides guidance, training, and financial support to 30 young fellows annually, enabling them to implement digital development projects in their communities. Participants have the unique opportunity to bring new digital development ideas to life or expand the impact of existing projects. The programme includes virtual mentorship and leadership training sessions from ITU and Huawei, as well as participation in an in-person global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland, in July 2025.
Programme Benefits
Financial Support: Each selected fellow will receive an initial $5,000 USD grant to implement their digital development project. The most impactful projects at the end of the year will receive an additional $5,000 USD grant to scale up, totaling up to $10,000 USD in funding.
Mentorship and Training: Fellows will participate in virtual mentorship and leadership training sessions provided by ITU and Huawei, enhancing their skills and project impact.
Global Exposure: Fellows will have the opportunity to participate in an in-person global Development Week in Geneva, Switzerland, in July 2025, allowing them to network with peers and industry leaders.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Age: 18-28 years old.
Educational Background: Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a tertiary education institution in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or a demonstrably STEM-related academic programme.
Language Proficiency: Able to communicate in English, the main language of the programme, to ensure all fellows can benefit from the planned offerings of trainings, networking, and events.
Project Proposal: Interested in making a real impact in their communities by leading their own digital development project.
Application Procedure
To apply for the Generation Connect Young Leadership Programme (GCYLP), follow these steps:
1. Complete the Application Form:
Fill out the application form available on the ITU website by the deadline of 23:59 CET on Monday, 31 March 2025.
2. Prepare Supporting Documents:
Applicants may need to provide proof of age, educational enrollment or recent graduation, and a detailed proposal of their digital development project.
3. Submit the Application:
Ensure all required fields and documents are completed and submitted before the deadline.
ℹ️ For any questions regarding the application and selection process, check the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) or email GCYLP@itu.int
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