Applications are now open for the 2025 St Gallen Symposium Global Leadership Challenge. The Global Leadership Challenge (GLC) aims to help emerging leaders grow in the wisdom and character required for responsible leadership that makes a real difference in the world — leadership that does not simply seek to fulfil personal ambition but advances the common good. GLC is a joint initiative of the University of Oxford and the St. Gallen Symposium, supported by partners.

From 11–15 December 2025, the GLC will focus on challenges defined by our partners. Participants will work on real-world issues and co-create impact projects, addressing them through the lens of responsible leadership and sustainability.

Eligibility criteria

• You are a student (currently enrolled in a Masters or a PhD programme) or a young professional (aged between 21-30 years).
• You have finished your undergraduate studies.
• You have already demonstrated your commitment to responsible leadership through extra-curricular activities and/or work experience.
• You are committed to investing around five half-days from 11-15 December 2025 for the GLC.
• Active participation in GLC sessions is mandatory to receive a Certificate of Achievement.

Benefits

Earn a Certificate of Achievement

All active participants will receive an official Certificate of Achievement from the University of Oxford and the St. Gallen Symposium.

Attend the 55th St. Gallen Symposium

The winning team will be offered to join the 54th St. Gallen Symposium in May 2025 as Leaders of Tomorrow and engage in cross-generational dialogue with senior leaders. As Leaders of Tomorrow, their expenses for travel and accommodation will be fully covered. After the conference, they will join a global network of emerging thinkers and changemakers.

Receive exclusive mentorship after GLC

After successful participation, GLC Members can apply for further mentoring in “leadership development” (with the Oxford Character Project at the University of Oxford) to reflect on their own purpose and grow as a future leader.

Application Procedure:

. Personal Information

• Please be ready to provide your personal information, including your address, email, and other contact details.

2. Documents

• CV (PDF)
• Recent Portrait Picture (JPEG or PNG)
• Proof of enrollment (students only) – PDF

3. Questions

• Keynote choice: Suggest a keynote speaker who could inspire global leaders to act responsibly.
• Your message: Record a video (max. 40 seconds, in English) inspiring global leaders to practice Responsible Leadership.
• Your action: Share one concrete example (max. 50
  words) of how you personally put Responsible
  Leadership into practice.

Timeline

• Application open: 26 September 2025
• Deadline: 2 November 2025
• Announcement of the GLC 2025 Members: Mid-November 2025 (exact dates tba.)

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the St Gallen Symposium Global Leadership Challenge

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