Two decades of impact: The Forum for Young Global Leaders turns 20

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.

Explore the interactive timeline showcasing how Young Global Leaders have pioneered world-changing initiatives over the past two decades.

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.

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.