If you’re a young person interested in global policy, education, culture, climate action, or social development, attending an international conference can feel impossible when travel costs are involved. Flights, accommodation, visas, registration fees, it adds up fast.
That’s where the UNESCO Youth Forum Travel Grant comes in.
This opportunity allows young people from developing countries to attend UNESCO-led global forums and seminars with travel fully funded. It is one of the most realistic ways to gain international exposure without paying out of pocket.
And yet, very few people talk about it.
What Is the UNESCO Youth Forum?
The UNESCO Youth Forum is a global platform that brings together young leaders, activists, researchers, and innovators from around the world to engage directly with policymakers and international institutions.
It takes place alongside UNESCO’s General Conference and other high-level meetings, meaning participants don’t just attend — they contribute to discussions that shape global agendas.
Participants come from diverse backgrounds, especially from Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
What Does the Travel Grant Cover?
Selected participants receive full or near-full financial support, including:
• Round-trip international airfare
• Accommodation for the duration of the forum
• Daily subsistence allowance (meals & local transport)
• Conference registration fees
• Visa support documentation
• Access to high-level seminars, workshops, and networking sessions
For many participants, this is their first international trip.
Who Is Eligible?
The UNESCO Youth Forum is open to young people who:
• Are between 18 and 30 years old
• Are actively involved in youth work, research, advocacy, or community initiatives
• Have an interest in UNESCO’s focus areas:
• Education
• Culture
• Science
• Climate & sustainability
• Media & information literacy
• Can demonstrate leadership or impact at local, national, or regional level
• Are from UNESCO Member States (Zimbabwe included)
You do not need a university degree to apply.
Types of Seminars & Events You May Attend
Depending on the year, participants may attend:
• UNESCO Youth Forum (biennial)
• Global education policy seminars
• Climate and sustainability summits
• Cultural heritage workshops
• Media and digital literacy conferences
• Youth peacebuilding dialogues
Some events are held in Paris, while others rotate globally.
Why This Opportunity Is Valuable
This is not just travel for the sake of travel.
Participants gain:
• International exposure and credibility
• Direct interaction with UN officials and policymakers
• Experience contributing to global policy discussions
• Networking with youth leaders from over 100 countries
• Certificates of participation from UNESCO
• Long-term opportunities with UN agencies & NGOs
Many past participants later secure:
• UN internships
• International fellowships
• Conference invitations
• NGO and consultancy roles
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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
1. Monitor UNESCO Youth Calls
UNESCO releases calls for youth delegates and forum participants on its official website and social media platforms.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Applications typically require:
• A motivation statement (500–700 words) • CV or short bio • Description of your youth or community work • Sometimes a short project proposal or idea 3. Submit Before the Deadline
Deadlines vary by event but are usually announced several months in advance.
4. Selection & Confirmation
Shortlisted candidates are contacted via email. Successful applicants receive official invitation letters and travel details.
(All official calls and announcements are published here.)
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
• Focus on impact, not titles
• Clearly link your work to UNESCO’s mission
• Show how you will apply what you learn in your community
• Be specific, avoid generic statements
• Write like a human, not a textbook
This opportunity values voice, perspective, and commitment more than credentials.
Final Thoughts
International seminars and youth forums are one of the most underrated pathways into global careers.
You don’t need to start with elite scholarships or famous internships.
Sometimes, one fully funded trip is enough to open doors.
If you’re serious about global exposure, policy, or development work, this is worth watching closely.