The World Bank Group Youth Summit returns for its 12th edition, inviting young people to engage with the most urgent issues their generation faces, while bringing together thousands of participants from across the globe. This year, the summit will center on innovation in climate action, digital transformation, and the creative industries.

The Youth Summit is the World Bank Group’s largest annual event for youth (ages 18-35) worldwide. It will be held on May 19-20, 2025, featuring activities and engagements both at the World Bank Group headquarters in Washington DC and across various regions.

The mission of the Summit is to:

• Empower youth to explore innovative solutions to development challenges;
• Equip youth with the tools to create and participate in impactful projects; and
• Foster dialogue between youth, the World Bank Group, and other key global stakeholders.

Under the theme “New Horizons: Youth-Led Innovation for a Livable Planet,” this year’s summit focuses on three transformative areas:

Creative Industries: Highlight the role of arts, media, and fashion in fostering employment, social and economic change, promoting sustainability, and preserving cultural heritage.

Digital Transformation & Data: Discover how youth leverage technology, including AI and big data, to drive economic growth, bridge the digital divide, and create a future-ready labor market.

Climate Action & Resilience: Explore innovative solutions for green technologies, smart cities, and sustainable agriculture, showcasing how young leaders can combat climate change while creating job opportunities.

The summit will focus on three fresh perspectives on technology: Digital Transformation & Data, Climate Action & Resilience, Empowering Change through Creative Industries. By taking into account these perspectives, the Summit will underscore the power of collaborative, inclusive, and resilient approaches in driving youth-led innovation. This approach aligns with the World Bank Group’s commitment to sustainable development and resilience, encouraging solutions that empower youth to address pressing global challenge, access the job market, and build a future where no one is left behind.

Components of the Summit

Delegates will actively participate in various components of the WBG Youth Summit, which include:

• Keynote Addresses and Panel Discussions: Engage with world-renowned speakers, policymakers, and development experts on global challenges and innovative solutions.
• Innovation Lab (formerly Case Challenge): Put on your innovation hats and take part in hands-on, interactive workshops to build innovative solutions for real World Bank Group Projects (for in-person delegates only).
• Interactive Q&A and Polling: Engage with speakers and panelists through live Q&A sessions and polls.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals, World Bank Group representatives, private-sector partners and fellow young leaders from around the world.
• Career Development Session: Get an opportunity to learn about different internships and programs that can prove to be your entryway into a rewarding career. Past presenters include colleagues from WBG, WB Treasury, IMF, UN, IDB, etc. 
• Choose a Pitch Competition winner: Witness the Pitch Competition final where the top 6 finalists showcase their groundbreaking youth-led initiatives and projects in a shark-tank like competition. Vote for your favorite solution or idea to decide on the Audience Choice Award. 

Perks of Being a Delegate

• Be part of a prestigious global platform for youth-driven impact and innovation.
• Gain insights from industry leaders, policymakers, and development professionals.
• Expand your global network with like-minded individuals and experts.
• Receive an official certificate of participation from the World Bank Group Youth Summit upon completion.
• Enhance your leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a dynamic and engaging environment.

APPLY NOW! Please note that applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and that seats are limited. If you wish to attend in person, you are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Application Deadline: April 15, 2025

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the World Bank Group Youth Summit 2025

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