- December 12-15 2025
- Istanbul, Turkey
Global Change Summit 2.0 Turkey
Join students, young professionals, activists, and leaders from around the world in Istanbul, Turkey, for an inspiring international gathering. GCS 2025 is where ideas meet action—connect with changemakers, explore solutions for climate, education, innovation, and social impact, and gain the tools to drive meaningful change in your community and beyond.
Deadline Approaching
What is Global Change Summit 2025?
Global Change Summit 2.0 is an international gathering for students, young professionals, activists, educators, innovators, and changemakers who are determined to make a real difference in the world. Whether you’re passionate about climate action, quality education, groundbreaking innovation, or driving social impact, GCS 2025 is your space to learn, connect, collaborate, and lead with purpose.
Following the powerful and transformative inaugural edition in Casablanca, Morocco, the summit returns in 2025—this time in the vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey—with even greater energy, a sharper focus, and a stronger drive for collective action. Over several inspiring days, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions, participate in interactive workshops, meet visionary leaders, and collaborate with like-minded peers from across the globe.
Together, we’ll share ideas, amplify voices, and gain the tools needed to create meaningful impact in our communities and beyond.
Our Vision
Goal & Purpose of GCS 2025
To unite and empower young changemakers with knowledge, networks, and tools to create lasting global impact.
Foster Purpose-Driven Leadership
Equip youth with the values, skills, and confidence to lead movements, shape policy, and drive global change.
Encourage Innovation for Impact
Empower delegates to develop bold, creative solutions to climate, education, and development challenges through interdisciplinary thinking.
Build Sustainable Global Networks
Create lasting connections between youth, educators, and policymakers to enable collaboration across borders and causes.
Facilitate Transformative Dialogue
Engage in deep, forward-looking conversations that move beyond awareness and lead to real policy influence and social reform.
Promote Active Civic & Global Participation
Inspire young people to take initiative in civic life, governance, and international development through informed action and advocacy.
Translate Global Goals into Local Action
Encourage participants to align their community work with global frameworks like the SDGs, making impact more targeted, measurable, and meaningful.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply
- Open to individuals aged 16 to 35 from all nationalities and backgrounds.
- We welcome applicants from all fields, whether you’re a high school or university student, startup founder, policy researcher, educator, climate activist, or volunteer. No specific academic background is required, only a clear commitment to making a positive impact.
- The working language of the summit is English, so participants must be comfortable engaging in discussions and activities in English.
- You must be available to attend the full summit and actively participate in all sessions.
Begin Your Journey to Istanbul
Registration Categories
Choose the category that best fits your needs and join us in Istanbul, Turkey, for this transformative global leadership experience. Each category offers unique opportunities and benefits to ensure a meaningful and rewarding journey for every participant.
Fully Funded
- Visa Invitation Letter
- Round-Trip Airfare Included
- Meals During Sessions
- Shared Accommodation
- Access to All Sessions, Workshops, & Events
- Impact Stories & Keynote Speeches
- Program Merchandise
- Certificate of Participation
- Opportunity to Explore Turkish Culture
Invitation Letter
- Visa Invitation Letter
- Meals During Sessions
- Access to All Sessions, Workshops, & Events
- Impact Stories & Keynote Speeches
- Program Merchandise
- Certificate of Participation
- Opportunity to Explore Turkish Culture
Self Funded
- Visa Invitation Letter
- Shared Accommodation
- Meals During Sessions
- Access to All Sessions, Workshops, & Events
- Impact Stories & Keynote Speeches
- Program Merchandise
- Certificate of Participation
- Opportunity to Explore Turkish Culture
Join us for the second edition of the Global Change Summit, offering 15 Fully Funded, 35 Partially Funded, and 100 Self-Funded slots, bringing together youth, experts, and leaders from around the globe.
Event schedule
Key Topics & Sessions
Istanbul, Turkey | December 12-15 2025
Local Action, Global Goals: Rethinking the SDGs
Explore how the Sustainable Development Goals can be translated into grassroots action. Hear from practitioners working in communities to localize the SDGs and ensure no one is left behind.
Climate Action & Environmental Resilience
Explores the intersection of environmental sustainability, climate justice, and resilience. It invites diverse perspectives on how individuals, communities, and institutions can respond to climate challenges in equitable and innovative ways.
Youth Leadership & Policy Innovation
Focused on inclusive governance and fresh approaches to policymaking, this topic highlights the role of emerging leaders in shaping the future of public policy and civic life through collaborative and community-rooted ideas.
Peacebuilding, Human Rights & Governance
This track opens space for conversations on justice, civic responsibility, and inclusive governance. It reflects on the evolving role of peacebuilding and human rights in addressing social divides and building stronger, more just societies.
Our Previous Engagements
Morocco
From thought-provoking discussions to actionable workshops, this conference gave me the tools and confidence I needed to launch my own sustainability project.
Germany
The energy, diversity, and depth of ideas were simply unmatched. I've never felt more empowered as a youth leader.
Mei-Ling
Attending the Global Youth Conference opened so many doors. I met future collaborators and mentors who are now part of my journey.
Brazil
One of the best youth events I've ever attended. Practical, global, and truly empowering. I’ll definitely be back next year!
Tunisia
This conference is not just an event—it’s a movement. It taught me that youth voices matter, and together, we’re unstoppable.
Italy
From climate change to digital innovation, every session was packed with value. It felt amazing to be surrounded by changemakers.
Kenya
The networking alone was worth it—but the ideas and global connections I took home made it unforgettable.
Canada
I was nervous at first, but the environment was so welcoming. I left with new confidence, new friends, and a new vision for my future.
Spain
If you care about global change, this is the place to be. Every youth should attend this at least once in their life.
Argentina
Questions? We have Answers
Who can attend the Global Change Summit 2025?
The GCS 2025 is open to passionate individuals aged 16–35, including students, professionals, social entrepreneurs, community leaders, educators, and changemakers from all around the world.
Is there an application fee for Fully Funded slots?
Yes, the Fully Funded category requires an application fee, which is non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of the outcome.
Will participants receive certificates?
Yes, all participants will receive certificates recognizing their contribution, participation, and learning experience at the summit.
How long does it take to get a response after applying?
For Forum Access and Self-Funded categories, there is no evaluation process involved and responses are typically provided within 2–3 working days after successful submission of application.
For Fully Funded applications, evaluation process is involved and shortlisted candidates will be contacted after the deadline
How many funded slots are available for GCS 2025?
We are offering 15 Fully Funded slots and 35 Partially Funded slots under the funded categories. Applicants do not need to submit separate applications for both categories; by applying for the Fully Funded category, you will automatically be considered for Partially Funded slots as well.
Is English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL) required?
No, English test scores like IELTS or TOEFL are not required. However, a good command of English is recommended to fully benefit from the sessions.
Can I apply if I don’t have a passport yet?
Yes, you can apply without a passport. However, we highly recommend obtaining one as soon as possible to avoid delays in your travel arrangements if selected
The Global Youth Conference was a life-changing experience! I connected with passionate young leaders from around the world and left inspired to make a real impact in my community.