Elevate Your Leadership Journey at YSEALI Summit 2025
Join Southeast Asia's brightest young leaders to shape a sustainable and inclusive future for the region.
Apply NowApplications close January 31, 2025.
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About the Summit
YSEALI Summit 2025
Get ready for a transformative experience at YSEALI Summit 2025—a catalyst hub where leadership meets purpose and collective action shapes a sustainable future.
Held in Penang, Malaysia, a dynamic hub of innovation, sustainability, and empowerment, elevates your leadership journey together with 120 YSEALI alumni from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste to address 21st-century challenges and build meaningful collaborations.
Because when leaders unite, ideas ignite, and lasting impact becomes inevitable.
At YSEALI Summit 2025, you will:
Co-create actionable solutions for regional challenges.
Empower your professional journey through shared visions and dynamic networks.
Forge meaningful connections with 120 leaders across the region.
Build purpose-driven leadership skills.
This is more than just a gathering, it’s a catalyst to grow, connect, and lead change across the region.
Program Highlights
Pre-Summit – Building Momentum
Set the stage for your leadership journey with virtual sessions that inspire self-reflection, build resilience, and connect you with your peers. These foundational activities will prepare you to tackle the challenges ahead.
YSEALI Summit Penang 2025 – Leadership Elevated
Dive into an immersive experience in Penang, Malaysia, where leadership meets collaboration. Through cultural exploration, sustainability workshops, and collaborative ideation, this is where ideas turn into action.
Post-Summit – Driving Impact
Turn vision into reality. With access to small grants, mentorship, and a vibrant alumni community, this stage ensures that your ideas make a tangible difference in your community and the region.
Summary of the Program
Eligibility
Are You the One We’re Looking For?
We’re inviting YSEALI alumni to apply to the YSEALI Summit 2025! Two opportunities await:
Eligibility Requirements:
Be a YSEALI Alumnus/Alumna
Applicants must have previously participated in a YSEALI program.
Hold ASEAN or Timor-Leste Citizenship
You must be a citizen and current resident of an ASEAN country or Timor-Leste during the application process and Summit period.
Have a Vision for Collaboration
Showcase clear goals to expand your work through cross-country partnerships and collaborations.
Demonstrate Partnership-Building Skills
Exhibit a strong commitment to working with Southeast Asian leaders to scale initiatives.
Engage the YSEALI Network
Present plans to involve more YSEALI members in your projects for meaningful regional impact.
Showcase Professional Experience
Have at least 2 years of experience working or volunteering in one of the YSEALI themes such as Education, Economic Empowerment, Environment and Sustainable Development, and Civic Engagement.
Eligibility Requirements:
Be a YSEALI Alumnus/Alumna
Applicants must have previously participated in a YSEALI program.
Hold ASEAN or Timor-Leste Citizenship
You must be a citizen and current resident of an ASEAN country or Timor-Leste during the application process and Summit period.
Bring Relevant Expertise
Possess at least 5 years of professional experience and expertise in leadership, collaboration, or technical skills relevant to the Summit themes.
Show Commitment to Collaboration
A strong record of fostering cross-border partnerships and community-building initiatives.
Experience in Mentorship and Facilitation
Prior experience in mentoring, facilitating, or moderating at similar events, focusing on any of the YSEALI themes such as Education, Economic Empowerment, Environment and Sustainable Development, and Civic Engagement.
Bridge Generational Perspectives
Represent the multigenerational spirit of the YSEALI network by connecting seasoned leaders with emerging professionals.
YSEALI: Over a Decade of Leadership
Compilation of Past SummitsFrequently Asked Questions
What is YSEALI Summit 2025?
YSEALI Summit 2025 is a four-day gathering that brings together 120 accomplished YSEALI alumni from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste, along with 20 distinguished mentors. This event serves as a dynamic hub for leadership development, cross-border collaboration, and the creation of innovative solutions to address regional challenges.
What is the focus of the Summit?
YSEALI Summit 2025 is structured with the Inner Development Goal framework and will be centered around regional challenges as the foundations for self-reflection, professional growth, and social impact. The regional challenges will be central to creating a transformative experience for you at the Summit.
During the application period, a survey will be conducted to identify the most pressing regional issue faced and addressed by the YSEALI community. The top 3 issues will be the central focus of the Summit.
When and where will the summit take place?
The summit will be held from May 4–9, 2025, in Penang, Malaysia, blending immersive workshops, cultural exchanges, and impactful activities.
What are the eligibility criteria for participants?
Participants must:
- Be a YSEALI alumni.
- Reside in an ASEAN country or Timor-Leste.
- Demonstrate a commitment to cross-country collaboration and impactful initiatives.
What are the mentors?
Mentors are experienced YSEALI alumni with leadership expertise. They guide and inspire participants by facilitating discussions, fostering collaboration, and sharing knowledge on impactful leadership. Mentors empower participants to turn ideas into actionable solutions for regional challenges.
What are the eligibility criteria for mentors?
Mentors must:
- Be a YSEALI alumni.
- Have at least five years of professional experience in leadership, collaboration, or technical skills.
Is the program fully funded?
Yes, the program will fully cover flight, accommodation, meals, and ground transportation for the selected participants to attend the four-day summit in Penang, Malaysia.
How do I apply?
- Review the eligibility criteria to ensure you qualify by checking the application guidelines.
- Prepare your required documents, which may include identification, qualifications summary, or any other relevant materials outlined in the application form.
- Complete the application form and submit it by January 31, 2025.
What activities are included in the summit?
Participants will engage in leadership workshops, the Catalyst Hub, site visits, and cultural immersion activities. Post-summit opportunities include small grants, professional development grants, and a Community of Practice.
What is the Catalyst Hub?
The Catalyst Hub is a vibrant space for collaboration where participants connect with peers and experts to discuss challenges, exchange ideas, and co-create solutions.
What are the available post-summit opportunities?
Participants can apply for:
- Small Grants: Funding for community-impact projects.
- Professional Development Grants: Resources to advance leadership and/or technical skills.
- Community of Practice: A platform to foster collaboration, innovation, and mutual support by learning from one another, solving problems collectively, and advancing their shared field.
What are the accommodation and meal arrangements?
Accommodation and meals during the summit will be fully covered for all selected participants and mentors.
Will transportation be provided?
Yes, transportation to and from the event venue, including flights and airport transfers, will be arranged for participants and mentors.
Do I need to cover any costs?
The summit covers most expenses, including accommodation, meals, and program activities. However, participants will need to cover their personal expenses.
What should I bring to the summit?
A detailed packing list will be provided upon acceptance. Participants are encouraged to bring any materials needed for their project pitches or presentations.