YBB – The Asia Foundation Leadership Program 2026, also known as LeadNext: Ambassadors for a Global Future, is now open for applications. This fully funded youth leadership program brings together emerging leaders from Asia and the United States to strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand cross-cultural understanding, and address global challenges through collaborative action.
Moreover, the program combines virtual leadership training with an in-person Global Leaders Summit in the United States, offering participants an exceptional opportunity to build global networks and practical leadership skills.
About the LeadNext 2026 Program
Organized by The Asia Foundation, LeadNext is designed to support the next generation of changemakers who are passionate about social impact, public leadership, and international collaboration.
From June to September 2026, fellows will participate in a structured leadership journey that includes virtual sessions, expert-led masterclasses, mentorship, and a culminating summit in the United States, specifically the San Francisco Bay Area.
In addition, the program emphasizes leadership development in communication, teamwork, self-awareness, and public speaking.
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Program Overview
Organization: The Asia Foundation
Program Type: Youth Leadership Program
Duration: June – September 2026
Mode: Virtual + In-Person Summit
Funding: Fully Funded
What Participants Will Experience
During the Leadership Training Intensive, fellows will join 13 virtual sessions, usually held twice a week over several weeks.
These sessions focus on:
- Social change leadership
- Communication and teamwork
- Self-awareness and reflection
- Public speaking
- Leadership impact strategies
Furthermore, participants will attend expert-led masterclasses where global leaders from Asia and the U.S. share practical insights on real-world challenges.
As a result, fellows will gain frameworks and tools that can support long-term leadership growth.
Global Leaders Summit in the USA
A major highlight of the program is the in-person Global Leaders Summit in the United States, taking place in the San Francisco Bay Area.
During this summit, fellows will:
- Join critical leadership discussions
- Explore 21st-century global issues
- Participate in advanced leadership workshops
- Receive one-on-one mentorship
- Connect with international peers
Therefore, this summit offers valuable international exposure and networking opportunities.
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Benefits of the Asia Foundation Leadership Program 2026
Selected participants will receive full financial support.
Benefits include:
- All program expenses fully covered
- No application fee
- Round-trip air tickets
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Leadership workshops and mentorship
- International networking opportunities
- Opportunity to visit the United States
Consequently, fellows can focus fully on learning and collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements.
- Must be 18–25 years old
- Must be a citizen or resident of the United States or an eligible Asia-Pacific country
- Must communicate fluently in English
- Must be able to attend all sessions across different time zones
- Must commit fully to the summit and virtual training
- Must have strong interest in cross-cultural exchange and leadership
Eligible Countries
Countries include:
Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pacific Islands, Pakistan, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste, United States, and Vietnam.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Resume or CV
- Valid passport
- Academic credentials
- Optional recommendation letter
- 1–2 minute self-introduction video
How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Sign up using your email and password
- Access the online application form
- Complete your profile and personal details
- Add education and professional experience
- Mention awards or scholarships received
- Complete written essays
- Upload required documents
- Review and submit the form
Official information:
https://asiafoundation.org/call-for-applications-2026-leadnext-ambassadors-for-a-global-future/
Apply here:
https://webportalapp.com/sp/login/leadnext2026-apply
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is 5 May 2026.
Therefore, applicants should begin preparing essays and video submissions early.
Conclusion
The Asia Foundation Leadership Program 2026 (LeadNext) is an excellent fully funded opportunity for young leaders who want to strengthen their leadership capacity and build global connections. With virtual masterclasses, expert mentorship, and an in-person summit in the United States, the program offers outstanding professional and personal development for emerging changemakers across Asia and the U.S.
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