Istanbul Youth Summit 2026 in Turkey | Fully Funded & Self-Funded Opportunities

Are you a young leader dreaming of making a positive change in the world?

Do you want to connect with international youth, present your ideas on a global stage, and experience the cultural beauty of Istanbul, Turkey? If yes, then the Istanbul Youth Summit (IYS) 2026 is calling for you!

This summit is not just a conference — it’s a life-changing journey where motivated youth from around the world come together to discuss global challenges, present social projects, and work towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Youth Break the Boundaries (YBB) Foundation organizes the summit to empower young people, helping them become leaders who create real social impact in their communities.

The 9th Istanbul Youth Summit (IYS) will take place from 9–12 February 2026 in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Türkiye. Centered around the theme ‘Empowering Youth Leaders to Drive Sustainable Change for a Brighter Future,’ the summit offers four inspiring days of learning, networking, and cultural exchange.

Whether you’re a student, a professional, or a social activist, if you’re passionate about making a difference, this event is meant for you.

About Istanbul Youth Summit 2026

The Istanbul Youth Summit (IYS) is an annual international event designed to connect youth leaders from all over the world. Each year, the summit provides a platform to:-

• Present your innovative social project ideas
• Develop strong leadership skills for lasting change
• Learn directly from SDG experts and global mentors
• Gain international exposure and expand your network

The 2026 summit will include the International Social Project Competition, engaging panel discussions, cultural events, and award ceremonies showcasing outstanding youth contributions.

Let’s go through some quick highlights –

Event Highlights of Istanbul Youth Summit

This 4-day summit gives participants a memorable experience, featuring:

• Pre-orientation, mentoring, and webinars before the event
• Panel discussions with SDG experts
• International Social Project Competition
• Opening Ceremony with a Bosphorus Cruise Dinner
• Cultural & Awarding Night

Awards will be presented in categories such as Best Project, Best Group, Best Leader, Best Presenter, Best Participant, Most Active Group, and others.

Also Read: MITACS Globalink Research Internship 2026 in Canada (Fully Funded)

Who Can Apply?

The Istanbul Youth Summit 2026 is open to:

• Welcoming Young people between the ages of 15–40 years.
• Applicants should be from any nationality & background
• Must be Individuals with no criminal record
• Youth should not be associated with extremist groups
• Motivated candidates willing to create social projects with diverse peers
• The best part is that no IELTS or TOEFL is required, making it open to everyone.

Istanbul Youth Summit Benefits

By attending, you will receive:

• You will get the benefit of a Round-trip airplane ticket (terms & reimbursement apply)
• Along with 4 days & 3 nights in a 5-star hotel
• Also, Meals & airport assistance
• Certificate of Participation & Letter of Acceptance
• Networking with international youth & leaders
• Medals, awards & global recognition
• Media coverage across global platforms, etc.

Fully Funded Slots Available: Participants can apply for fully funded opportunities where expenses are reimbursed after completing the program.

Why You Should Join the Istanbul Youth Summit 2026?

Joining IYS 2026 means becoming part of a global youth movement. Participants will get a chance to –

• Build an international leadership network
• Improve public speaking & leadership skills
• Experience cultural exchange in Istanbul
• Present their social project ideas on a world stage
• Contribute to advancing the UN SDGs

According to me, it is the best opportunity to grab and explore your possibilities.

How to Apply for the Istanbul Youth Summit 2026

• First visit to the official site, after that, follow the process below –

• Registration Fee: All applicants need to pay the Registration Fee, which is non-refundable.
• Process of Fully Funded Applicants: –
  • Selection through application forms, essays, and interviews.
  • Letter of Acceptance issued 10 days after registration closes.
• Process of Self-Funded Applicants: –
  • A letter of Acceptance is issued within 7 business days after applying.
  • Flight Reimbursement: Fully funded participants receive airfare reimbursement only after completing the full program.
• Read the official guidelines carefully, follow every registration step, and actively participate in pre-orientation sessions to increase your chances of being selected.

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