The World Bank Group Youth Summit 2025 is here for its 12th edition in 2025, presenting an unparalleled opportunity for young leaders worldwide to engage in addressing the most pressing development challenges. The theme for this year, “New Horizons: Youth-Led Innovation for a Livable Planet,” encourages global youth to bring forward groundbreaking solutions in three critical sectors: climate action, digital transformation, and creative industries.
Event Overview
- Dates: May 19-20, 2025
- Format: Hybrid (Online and In-Person at the World Bank Group Headquarters, Washington, DC)
- Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
The Youth Summit, an annual flagship event, serves as the World Bank Group’s largest platform for youth engagement. It attracts participants aged 18-35 from diverse backgrounds and regions, providing them with a chance to collaborate, learn, and propose impactful solutions to today’s global challenges.
Summit Goals
The World Bank Group Youth Summit aims to:
- Empower young individuals to develop and showcase innovative solutions for global development challenges.
- Equip youth with the necessary skills and resources to drive real-world change.
- Foster Collaboration between youth, the World Bank Group, international organizations, private sector leaders, and civil society.
By bringing together diverse voices, the summit provides a platform to engage in meaningful dialogue, exchange knowledge, and form strategic partnerships that can lead to real-world impact.
Focus Areas for youth summit 2025
This year’s summit will focus on three key sectors that are crucial in shaping sustainable and inclusive futures:
1. Digital Transformation & Data
The rapid advancement of technology presents both opportunities and challenges. The summit will explore how youngsters are harnessing digital tools such as AI, big data, and blockchain to:
- Promote economic growth and financial inclusion.
- Bridge the digital divide and foster digital literacy.
- Build a future-ready workforce with essential tech skills.
2. Climate Action & Resilience
Climate change remains one of the most pressing global issues, and young leaders play a pivotal role in addressing it. The summit will highlight:
- Innovative green technologies.
- Smart city solutions and sustainable urban development.
- Climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable food production.
3. Creative Industries
Arts, media, and culture are powerful tools for economic and social transformation. This focus area will examine:
- The role of creative industries in job creation and economic growth.
- Sustainable fashion and ethical design practices.
- How storytelling and digital media can drive social change and cultural preservation.
Additionally, the summit will spotlight fresh perspectives on:
- Supporting Underserved Communities – ensuring innovation reaches marginalized and vulnerable populations.
- Fragility, Conflict, and Violence (FCV) – addressing challenges faced by youth in conflict-affected areas.
- Cross-Sector Partnerships – fostering collaboration between governments, NGOs, and businesses to scale impact.
Why This Summit Matters
The Role of Youth in Development
Today, nearly 85% of the world’s youth live in low- and middle-income countries, with many in fragile or conflict-affected areas. Challenges such as unemployment, lack of education, and restricted access to financial resources hinder their progress. However, youth have demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation, pioneering solutions that tackle global issues head-on.
From developing AI-driven solutions for agriculture to launching fintech startups that drive financial inclusion, young changemakers are reimagining sustainable economic models. The Youth Summit amplifies their voices and provides them with the necessary tools to scale up their impact.
Key Themes and Impact Areas
The 2025 Youth Summit will delve into a range of youth-led innovations across various sectors, including:
1. Education
- Digital Learning Platforms: Using AI and virtual classrooms to expand access to quality education.
- EdTech Startups: Innovative models to make education more inclusive and affordable.
- Skill Development: Preparing youth for the digital economy through upskilling initiatives.
2. Healthcare
- Telemedicine and Digital Health: Providing remote healthcare solutions, especially in underserved areas.
- Mental Health Awareness: Empowering youth to drive conversations and solutions for mental well-being.
- Biotech Innovations: Exploring advancements in medical research driven by young scientists.
3. Green Technologies
- Renewable Energy Initiatives: Youth-led solar and wind energy projects that contribute to sustainability.
- Smart Cities: Developing eco-friendly urban infrastructure with a focus on energy efficiency.
- Waste Management and Circular Economy: Tackling pollution through recycling and innovative waste solutions.
By focusing on these areas, the summit seeks to catalyze innovation and equip youth with the necessary tools and resources to drive systemic change.
How to Apply
Eligibility Criteria
- Open to individuals aged 18-35 from all countries.
- Applicants must demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to innovation in any of the focus areas.
- Proficiency in English is preferred, as sessions will be conducted in English.
Application Process
- Submit an Online Application: Interested participants can apply via the official World Bank Group Youth Summit website before the deadline on April 15, 2025.
- Provide a Proposal or Idea: Applicants are encouraged to present an innovative project or idea aligned with one of the summit’s key themes.
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the hybrid summit and participate in competitions and networking events.
What Participants Can Expect
1. Keynote Speeches and Panel Discussions
The summit will feature leading policymakers, industry experts, and young innovators who will share their insights on sustainable development and innovation.
2. Youth-Led Innovation Challenge
A competition where selected participants will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges, with winners receiving funding, mentorship, and potential partnerships.
3. Networking and Capacity Building
Participants will have access to:
- Exclusive networking sessions with industry leaders and investors.
- Workshops on leadership, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
- Collaboration opportunities with global organizations and peers.
Conclusion
The World Bank Group Youth Summit 2025 represents a unique opportunity for young leaders to showcase their creativity, drive impactful change, and connect with like-minded innovators. By focusing on digital transformation, climate action, and creative industries, the summit paves the way for sustainable and inclusive solutions that address some of the world’s most urgent challenges.
As the global youth community comes together, the summit aims to empower the next generation of changemakers with the tools, resources, and networks needed to turn their ideas into reality. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this transformative event! Apply before April 15, 2025.
