AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme: Opportunity for Emerging HIV Advocates, Researchers, and Activists
The AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme is a dedicated initiative under the 26th International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2026), organized by the International AIDS Society (IAS).
It is designed to support young people engaged in HIV-related work by strengthening their skills in research, advocacy, networking, and leadership within the global HIV response.
The programme targets emerging voices in the HIV field, particularly young people living with HIV, youth activists, and early-career researchers who are committed to advancing public health and social impact.
About AIDS 2026 and the Young Leaders Programme
The International AIDS Conference is one of the world’s largest gatherings focused on HIV science, policy, and advocacy. Within this global platform, the Young Leaders Programme creates a structured space for youth participation, ensuring that younger generations are actively involved in shaping the future of HIV responses.
For AIDS 2026, the programme offers a tailored experience that goes beyond conference attendance. It is designed to provide mentorship, skills development, and direct engagement with leading experts in the field.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Applicants must be aged 29 or under at the time of the conference
- Applicants must be registered to attend AIDS 2026 in person
- The programme is open to:
- Young people living with HIV
- Young HIV activists and advocates
- Early-career researchers working in HIV or related fields
The selection process focuses on individuals who demonstrate a strong commitment to HIV advocacy, research, or community engagement.
Key Dates
The application cycle for the AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme follows a short submission window:
- Applications open: 4 May 2026
- Applications close: 18 May 2026
Interested candidates are required to submit their applications through their official conference profiles within this timeframe.
Programme Benefits
Selected Young Leaders will participate in a highly interactive and development-focused programme during AIDS 2026 and beyond. The experience is designed to build both technical and leadership capacity in the global HIV response.
Core Benefits Include:
- Engagement with leading global experts, including scientists, researchers, advocates, and IAS leadership
- Participation in an innovation workshop, where young leaders collaborate to develop new ideas and solutions
- A one-on-one career forum, providing personalized guidance on career development in HIV-related fields
- Structured networking opportunities with peers, including young people living with HIV, activists, and researchers
These components are intended to build long-term professional connections and strengthen youth leadership in global health.
Programme Objectives
The Young Leaders Programme is not only a networking opportunity but also a capacity-building initiative. Its core objectives include:
- Strengthening youth participation in global HIV science and advocacy
- Supporting the development of new ideas and innovative approaches to HIV prevention and treatment
- Enhancing research and communication skills among young professionals
- Building long-term professional pathways for youth in public health and global health governance
By integrating young participants into high-level scientific and policy discussions, the programme ensures that youth perspectives are included in global decision-making processes.
Application Process
Applications are submitted through the official AIDS 2026 conference platform. Candidates must ensure they are registered for the conference and complete their application within the designated submission period.
For questions not covered in the FAQs, applicants can contact the programme team via email at:
Why the Programme Matters
The AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme plays an important role in strengthening the next generation of HIV professionals and advocates. Young people are often at the center of HIV prevention, awareness, and community response efforts, yet they are frequently underrepresented in formal scientific and policy spaces.
By creating direct access to global experts, research discussions, and leadership training, the programme helps bridge this gap and ensures that youth voices are included in shaping HIV strategies at both global and national levels.
It also contributes to broader goals of equity, inclusion, and sustainability in global health by investing in emerging leaders who will carry forward HIV response efforts in the coming decades.
Call for Action
The AIDS 2026 Young Leaders Programme is a targeted opportunity for young professionals, activists, and researchers engaged in HIV-related work. Through structured mentorship, networking, and skills development, it offers a platform for meaningful participation in one of the world’s most important global health conferences.
For eligible applicants aged 29 and under, this programme provides a unique chance to connect with leading experts, develop innovative ideas, and strengthen career pathways in HIV science and advocacy.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
