AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026 – Quick Key Points
- The Youth Leadership Academy is organized by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC).
- It is a fully funded, 5-day in-person leadership program held at York University.
- The Academy focuses on global citizenship, sustainable development, and leadership skills.
- Participants engage in collaborative learning, discussions, and hands-on activities.
- Selected students receive post-program support, including a microgrant and mentorship.
AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026 Program Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Youth Leadership Academy |
| Host Organization | Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) |
| Program Type | Leadership & Global Citizenship Fellowship Program |
| Duration | 5 days (July 27–31, 2026) |
| Location | York University, Toronto, Canada |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Application Platform | Submittable |
| Application Deadline | February 21, 2026 (11:59 pm EST) |
About the AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026
The Youth Leadership Academy is an immersive leadership program designed to empower young people with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to engage with global issues. Hosted by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada, the Academy brings together motivated students to explore global challenges, sustainable development goals, and pathways to active global citizenship.
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Through interactive sessions and collaborative learning, participants strengthen their leadership capacity while building connections with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Program Structure and Learning Experience
The Academy takes place over five consecutive days and offers a structured, in-person learning environment. Participants take part in workshops, group discussions, leadership activities, and experiential learning sessions focused on real-world global challenges.
The program emphasizes teamwork, critical thinking, and practical engagement strategies that participants can apply within their schools and communities.
Funding and Benefits of the AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026
The Youth Leadership Academy is fully funded by AKFC. Selected participants receive:
- Coverage of travel expenses to Toronto.
- Accommodation for the full duration of the program.
- Daily meals during the Academy.
- Access to leadership training and learning resources.
- A post-program microgrant to support an action project.
- Ongoing mentorship and remote support from AKFC staff and Youth Advisory Committee members.
There is no cost to attend for accepted participants.
Eligibility Requirements of the AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be eligible to attend an in-person program in Toronto, Canada.
- Be comfortable reading, writing, and speaking in English.
- Be able to commit to full participation for all five days of the Academy.
- Be willing to implement an action project aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) during the 2026–2027 school year.
- Be nominated and accompanied by a teacher, where applicable.
Partial attendance is not permitted.
Commitment After the Program
Following the Academy, participants are required to design and implement an action project connected to the Sustainable Development Goals during the 2026–2027 academic year. AKFC provides a microgrant and structured support to help participants successfully plan and execute their projects.
Participants who attend with a nominating teacher also receive in-school mentorship during project implementation.
Supervision and Safety
Participant safety is a priority throughout the Academy. Students are accompanied to York University by their nominating teachers. During the program, AKFC provides comprehensive supervision through trained staff and vetted volunteers to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
Participants are not permitted to engage in off-site activities outside of the official program schedule.
Application and Selection Process of the AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026
Applications must be submitted online through the Submittable platform. Applicants are required to create a Submittable account to complete and submit their application.
All eligible applications are assessed using a standardized rubric. Selection decisions are based on a holistic review process that considers application quality, regional representation, and demographic diversity.
Applicants are expected to complete their applications independently. External assistance, including AI tools, is not permitted during the application process.
How to Apply for the AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026
Follow the steps below carefully to successfully apply for the Youth Leadership Academy 2026:
- Access the official application platform
Visit the Youth Leadership Academy application page hosted on Submittable, the official application platform used by AKFC. - Create a Submittable account
If you do not already have a Submittable account, you must create one using a valid and active email address. Be sure to use an email you check regularly, as all application updates and notifications will be sent there. - Begin a new application
Once logged in, locate the Youth Leadership Academy 2026 application and click to start a new submission. Read all instructions carefully before proceeding. - Complete the application form in full
Fill out all required sections of the application form, providing accurate and honest information. You may be asked to respond to short-answer questions related to leadership, global issues, and your interest in global citizenship. - Review the assessment rubric
Before submitting, review the official assessment rubric to understand how applications are evaluated. This will help you align your responses with the program’s selection criteria. - Confirm eligibility and commitments
Ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements and can fully commit to attending the entire 5-day in-person program and completing the post-Academy action project. - Submit your application before the deadline
Carefully review your application for completeness and accuracy, then submit it through Submittable no later than February 21, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST.
Important Dates
- Application deadline: February 21, 2026 (11:59 pm EST).
- Program dates: July 27–31, 2026.
- Action project implementation: 2026–2027 school year.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) of the AKFC Youth Leadership Academy 2026
Is there a cost to attend the Youth Leadership Academy?
No. The program is fully funded, including travel, accommodation, and meals.
Can I attend only part of the program?
No. Full participation in all sessions is mandatory.
What language is the program conducted in?
The program is conducted entirely in English.
Are there religious components to the program?
No. The Academy does not include any religious activities.
What support is provided after the Academy?
Participants receive a microgrant and ongoing mentorship for their SDG action project.
Are off-site activities allowed during the program?
No. Participants must remain within the official program schedule.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are assessed using a rubric and reviewed holistically.
Is AI assistance allowed for applications?
No. Applicants must complete their applications independently.
Who supervises participants during the Academy?
AKFC staff and vetted volunteers provide full supervision.
Where is the program held?
The Academy takes place at York University in Toronto, Canada.
