Leadership matters help us make a positive change!
The Future Leaders Network (FLN) is proud to invite applications for its 2026 delegate programs. This initiative provides ambitious young leaders with unparalleled opportunities to engage in international policymaking, participate in global summits, and contribute meaningfully to climate action and youth representation.
Applications are due by Friday, 28 November 2025 (23:59 GMT). Successful candidates will be notified on Friday, 23 January 2026.
About the Future Leaders Network (FLN)
The Future Leaders Network (FLN) is a pioneering platform that empowers young people to engage in international leadership, diplomacy, and policy-making. By connecting youth with high-level decision-makers, FLN ensures that the perspectives, needs, and priorities of the next generation are incorporated into global discussions on governance, economics, and climate policy.
FLN operates through delegations to three major international forums: Youth7 (Y7), Youth20 (Y20), and the Conference of the Parties (COP). These delegations provide delegates with hands-on experience in negotiation, policy development, and advocacy, while fostering a global network of young leaders committed to sustainable and inclusive progress.
Why Become an FLN Delegate?
Being selected as a Future Leaders Network delegate is a unique leadership opportunity with far-reaching impact. Delegates gain:
- Practical experience in international negotiations with policymakers from across the G7, G20, and UN member states.
- Exposure to high-level decision-making and insight into the processes that shape global policy.
- Professional development through leadership training, mentorship, and participation in policy consultations.
- Networking opportunities with peers, experts, and global stakeholders.
- A platform to drive real-world change, advocating for policies that reflect the priorities of young people across the U.K.
FLN ensures that delegates leave the program not only with enhanced leadership skills but also with tangible accomplishments, including policy recommendations, media engagement experience, and personal development outcomes that strengthen their future careers in leadership, governance, and advocacy.
The 2026 Delegation Programs
FLN organizes three major delegation programs in which delegates can participate. Candidates may apply for one, two, or all three programs depending on their interests and availability.
1. Youth7 (Y7)
Youth7 (Y7) is the official youth engagement group of the G7, a coalition of seven advanced democracies that collaborate to address global challenges.
Role of the Y7 Delegate:
As a UK Y7 delegate, you will:
- Represent UK youth perspectives in policy discussions.
- Collaborate with international youth delegates to create a unified set of policy recommendations.
- Advocate for the adoption of these recommendations by G7 leaders, governments, and partner organizations.
Program Details:
- Expected Time Commitment: ~7 hours per week (preparation and consultation), plus full attendance at the week-long Y7 Summit in France (dates TBC, typically June).
- Duration: 12 months (January 2026 – January 2027).
- Costs: FLN does not charge application or program fees. Summit costs, accommodation, and in-country board are usually covered by the host organization. Delegates are responsible for travel to/from the Summit and any uncovered expenses.
Key Responsibilities:
- Policy Development:
- Research priority policy tracks.
- Lead public consultations to gather diverse youth perspectives across the U.K.
- Develop evidence-based, pragmatic policy recommendations.
- Advocacy and Impact:
- Engage with national and international stakeholders to promote recommendations.
- Negotiate with youth delegates from other G7 nations to achieve consensus.
- Participate in media campaigns and public communications to amplify youth voices.
- Implement a Post-Summit Initiative (PSI) to turn recommendations into tangible actions locally or nationally.
- Team Leadership:
- Contribute to a high-performing delegation team.
- Support peers and collaborate effectively in a professional environment.
- Identify personal strengths and take the initiative in areas of expertise.
- Mentor future Y7 delegates for program continuity and legacy.
2. Youth20 (Y20)
Youth20 (Y20) serves as the official youth engagement group of the G20, the forum of major economies addressing international economic, social, and environmental challenges.
Role of the Y20 Delegate:
UK delegates collaborate with peers from across the G20 to:
- Influence the policy agenda of member countries.
- Develop and advocate for youth-informed recommendations on global economic and social issues.
- Ensure that youth voices are represented in policy frameworks at national and international levels.
Program Details:
- Location: United States (dates typically in November).
- Commitment: Weekly engagement (~7 hours per week), full participation during the Summit.
- Duration: 12 months, aligned with pre-summit preparations and post-summit follow-up.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct research and consultation to develop a cohesive UK youth position.
- Engage with stakeholders to ensure that recommendations are adopted.
- Build consensus across international delegations.
- Communicate outcomes effectively to media and communities.
3. Conference of the Parties (COP)
COP (Conference of the Parties) is the annual UN climate summit, where countries negotiate policies under the UNFCCC framework to address climate change globally.
Role of the COP Delegate:
Delegates:
- Represent UK youth in climate policy negotiations.
- Collaborate with international counterparts to develop and advocate climate-related recommendations.
- Influence decision-making to ensure youth priorities are considered in global climate strategies.
Program Details:
- Location: TBD (typically November).
- Commitment: ~7 hours per week, including remote pre-summit preparation and full Summit attendance.
- Duration: 12 months, spanning preparation, Summit, and post-summit initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research climate policy priorities.
- Engage in consultations to incorporate diverse youth perspectives.
- Draft recommendations to influence COP negotiations.
- Lead or contribute to local climate initiatives, translating policy into action.
Eligibility Criteria
FLN is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive delegation that represents the full spectrum of UK youth. Applicants must:
- Be aged 18–30 by 14 January 2026.
- Be a U.K. citizen or have lived in the U.K. for at least 5 years.
- Be able to commit fully to the time and responsibilities required.
Diversity data collected during applications is used solely for monitoring purposes and does not influence selection. All information is treated with strict confidentiality.
Apply Here!
The Application Process
Applications are assessed against the essential criteria outlined in the delegate role descriptions. Candidates are encouraged to provide examples of personal, professional, and voluntary experiences. The STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format is recommended for clarity and impact.
Q1 – Motivation & Skills (500 words max)
a. Why do you want to become a Y7/Y20/COP delegate, and how will it support your personal and professional goals?
b. What skills have you developed from your experiences that make you an effective delegate?
Q2 – Positive Change Example (500 words max)
- Describe a time you made a positive change in the world.
- Explain the challenge, your approach, and the impact achieved.
Application Timeline
- Submission Deadline: Friday, 28 November 2025, 23:59 GMT. Late submissions will automatically be considered for the following year.
- Outcome Notification: Friday, 23 January 2026, GMT.
Note: Candidates must be available for all stages of preparation, virtual meetings, and the full duration of the respective Summits. Partial participation is not permitted.
Apply Here!
Delegate Commitment Overview
Delegates are expected to:
- Attend weekly virtual meetings with their UK delegation.
- Participate in weekly check-ins with FLN mentors.
- Engage in regular international meetings with peers.
- Participate in the full Summit.
- Lead or contribute to post-Summit initiatives in the UK.
Time Commitment: Approximately 7 hours per week on average, with occasional additional hours leading up to Summits.
Key Responsibilities for All Delegates
- Policy Development
- Conduct research and analysis to inform policy positions.
- Lead public consultations to ensure youth perspectives are central.
- Develop actionable, evidence-based recommendations.
- Advocacy and Impact
- Engage with policymakers, stakeholders, and international youth to promote recommendations.
- Negotiate consensus across international delegations.
- Use media, social campaigns, and public engagements to communicate youth positions.
- Implement at least one policy recommendation locally or nationally through Post-Summit Initiatives.
- Team Leadership
- Contribute to a collaborative, high-performing team environment.
- Identify personal strengths and take initiative on tasks.
- Mentor incoming delegates and support succession planning.
Benefits of Being an FLN Delegate
- Professional Growth: Develop negotiation, policy analysis, leadership, and advocacy skills.
- Networking: Engage with international peers, policymakers, and mentors.
- Unique Experiences: Participate in global summits and high-level discussions.
- Impactful Work: Influence policies that affect millions of young people worldwide.
- Career Readiness: Gain skills highly sought in government, NGOs, international organizations, and corporate leadership.
How to Maximize Your Application
- Engage early: Understand each delegation’s focus and priorities.
- Demonstrate impact: Use concrete examples from your experiences.
- Show collaboration: Highlight teamwork and leadership skills.
- Be authentic: Emphasize your passion, initiative, and commitment.
- Follow instructions: Adhere to word limits, application guidelines, and submission deadlines.
For further assistance with applications, prospective delegates can:
- Access FLN webinars and information sessions.
- Contact FLN support for application guidance.
- Review past delegate experiences and program materials for insight.
Contact Email: info@futureleadersnetwork.org
Apply Here!
Conclusion
Becoming an FLN delegate is a transformative opportunity to develop as a leader, influence global decision-making, and create tangible positive change for young people in the U.K. and beyond. Delegates leave the program equipped with skills, experiences, and networks that can propel their future careers while contributing meaningfully to global policy discussions.
Apply by Friday, 28 November 2025, to join the 2026 cohort and take part in shaping international youth leadership.
For more information and Opportunities, visit Future Leaders Network – 2026 Delegates.
:opportunitiesforwomen.org/
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