The Forum for Young Global Leaders marks its 20th anniversary in 2024. Image: Young Global Leaders
Kulé Galma
Lead, Event Editorial, Programming and Communications, YGL Foundation, World Economic Forum- 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the Forum of Young Global Leaders.
- Throughout its two-decade history, 1,400 Young Global Leaders (YGLs) have championed positive impact in their communities, industries and the world.
- YGLs hail from over 120 nationalities, and each brings their unique expertise to bear in a community focused on cultivating a new generation of leaders.
In the visionary spirit of Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, the Forum of Young Global Leaders was born. For the past two decades, it has epitomized the power of collective action in tackling the world’s most critical challenges.
The Forum of Young Global Leaders was established in 2004 to unite outstanding leaders under the age of 40 from around the world. It convenes individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership and impact as a catalyst for addressing humanity's shared challenges. Now in its 20th year, The Forum of Young Global Leaders continues to cultivate the next generation of leaders committed to building positive change.
Trace our journey
Explore the interactive timeline showcasing how Young Global Leaders have pioneered world-changing initiatives over the past two decades.
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Young Global Leaders: 20 years of impact
From pioneering initiatives in public health and economic development to advancing innovations in technology and sustainability, our diverse community has contributed to shaping policies and improving communities worldwide. Through immersive education modules, global summits and collaborative projects, YGLs represent progress and innovation.
"For the past 19 years, we have embarked on a journey to identify, support and facilitate connections between young leaders who are committed to improving the state of the world. We provide learning opportunities, resources and platforms to help Young Global Leaders unlock their full potential, launch new initiatives and scale existing efforts. Amid these complex times, the YGL community has demonstrated resilience, unity and a vision for a sustainable and inclusive world."
The evolution of a community
As a precursor to the YGL programme, in 1992, the World Economic Forum established the Global Leaders for Tomorrow (GLTs) — a dynamic community of young leaders under 43, already accomplished in business, politics, academia, the arts and media. In keeping with the Forum’s mission to improve the state of the world, in 2004, the idea for the Forum of Young Global Leaders was born — a community that would go beyond individual success to harness collective action to tackle the world’s most pressing problems.
