Ready to turn ideas into impact?
We’re looking for 30 outstanding young leaders aged 18–29 from across ASEAN and Australia to join us in Singapore for the sixth ASEAN-Australia Young Leaders Forum (AAYLF)—where entrepreneurship, innovation, and regional collaboration come together to create lasting social impact.
THE FLAGSHIP INITIATIVE
About AAYLF
The ASEAN-Australia Young Leaders Forum (AAYLF) is the flagship initiative of the ASEAN-Australia Strategic Youth Partnership (AASYP).
Since launching in Jakarta in 2019, AAYLF has brought together exceptional young leaders from across ASEAN and Australia to build meaningful relationships, exchange ideas, and strengthen regional cooperation. Previous forums have been held in Jakarta (2019), Online (2022), Kuala Lumpur (2023), Ho Chi Minh City (2024), and Cebu (2025).
In its sixth iteration, AAYLF 2026 will bring together 30 delegates aged 18–29 in Singapore for a three-day immersive leadership forum from 27–29 November 2026, followed by publication of delegates’ op-eds in the AASYP Review 2026.
Focus Areas
This year's theme focuses on:
Social Impact
Entrepreneurship
Innovation
STREAM TRACKS
Across three programme streams:
Ideation & Solution Thinking
Overcoming Adversity
Sustainable Motion
Your AAYLF Journey
This is your opportunity to join the sixth ASEAN-Australia Young Leaders Forum, held in Singapore.
To apply, you need to:
- Complete the online application form and upload a headshot.
- Submit a 500-word op-ed on this year’s theme of social impact, entrepreneurship and innovation (to be published in the AASYP Review 2026).
- Highlight your top three leadership achievements.
- Share your personal and professional motivations for joining AAYLF.
Applications Close
27 August 2026
11:59 PM Singapore Standard Time (GMT+8)
Be selected as 1 of 30 delegates
Your AAYLF experience begins with a three-day intensive leadership forum featuring inspiring speakers, practical workshops, cultural exchange and regional networking.
Delegates will gain practical skills, regional insights, and lifelong networks to transform ideas into sustainable ventures that create meaningful impact across the ASEAN-Australia region.
Join Us in Singapore
Your AAYLF experience begins with a three-day intensive leadership forum featuring inspiring speakers, practical workshops, cultural exchange and regional networking.
Key Dates
26 November 2026 (Thursday)
Arrival & Hotel Check-in
27-29 November 2026
Forum Programme
30 November 2026 (Monday)
Departure
A comprehensive delegate handbook and programme guide will be provided before the Forum.
Forum Programme
AAYLF 2026 is more than a conference—it’s an immersive leadership experience designed to inspire, connect and empower the next generation of ASEAN-Australia changemakers.
Location: Singapore
Dates: 27–29 November 2026
What to Expect
Explore emerging ideas and innovations from regional leaders across entrepreneurship, business and social impact.
Build meaningful connections with entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors and industry leaders.
Develop lifelong friendships and strengthen regional understanding across ASEAN and Australia.
Share your experiences, initiatives and leadership journey with fellow delegates and stakeholders.
Discover Singapore's multicultural identity while strengthening intercultural awareness.
Contribute your ideas to a regional publication showcasing youth perspectives on entrepreneurship and innovation.
Application Details
What to Expect
Who Can Apply?
- Citizens or Permanent Residents of Australia or any ASEAN Member State
- Aged 18–29 at the time of application
- Demonstrated leadership and commitment to creating positive change within their community or profession
Applications Open
26 July 2026
Applications Close
27 August 2026, 11:59 PM GMT+8
What's covered
AAYLF 2026 is a majority-funded programme, including:
- Return flights (reimbursed upon successful completion)
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Programme activities
- Official invitation letter
Delegate Contribution Fee
AUD $180
Delegates are responsible for:
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Need-based financial assistance is available.
Learn More: FAQs
Applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of Australia or an ASEAN Member State and be aged 18–29 (inclusive) at the time of application.
Thirty delegates will be selected through a competitive process based on:
Leadership achievements
Personal and professional motivations
Quality of the 500-word op-ed
Singapore.
The Forum will take place over three intensive days.
26 November – Arrival
27–29 November – Forum Programme
30 November – Departure
Full attendance is required to receive flight reimbursement and programme completion recognition.
The programme covers:
- Return flights (reimbursement basis)
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Programme activities
Delegates are responsible for:
- AUD $180 delegate contribution fee
- Travel insurance
Delegates should budget for:
- AUD $180 delegate fee
- Flights (reimbursed after programme completion)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and incidentals
Additional reimbursement information will be provided to successful applicants.
Yes.
Limited financial assistance is available on a needs basis for delegates unable to cover the forum fee or upfront flight costs.
We also encourage delegates to seek sponsorship through:
- Universities
- Employers
- Rotary Clubs
- Local government
- Community organisations
AASYP will provide sponsorship support materials.
The three selection criteria are:
- Leadership achievements
- Motivations
- Op-ed submission
Read each question carefully and answer directly.
For inspiration, explore previous editions of the AASYP Review.
Applicants will submit a 500-word op-ed on this year’s theme of social impact, entrepreneurship and innovation.
Selected pieces will be refined and published in the AASYP Review 2026, showcasing youth perspectives from across ASEAN and Australia.
View the 2025 AASYP Review here.
Each day explores a different aspect of the overall entrepreneurship theme:
- Ideation & Solution Thinking
- Overcoming Adversity
- Sustainable Motion
Yes.
All selected delegates will receive an official invitation letter to support leave requests, sponsorship applications or university approval.
Applications close at 11:59 PM Singapore Standard Time (GMT+8) on 27 August 2026.
If you experience any issues with your application, please contact: aaylf.team@aasyp.org
Forum Partners
AAYLF 2026 is proudly supported by:
