About

The Forum of Young Global Leaders Foundation (YGL Foundation) is a private foundation based in Switzerland and founded by the World Economic Forum.

We serve as a global platform for cultivating the next generation of strategic minds – those ready to lead with integrity, curiosity, and bold vision. 

We convene the Young Global Leaders Community, an international network of exceptional individuals committed to shaping the future. Through immersive learning, global convenings and deep peer exchange, we promote a culture of shared growth and forward-looking dialogue.

Three professionals and one woman engage in close small-group dialogue at a YGL convening, illustrating peer exchange.
Our community includes more than 1,400 members and alumni from over 120 countries. It includes ministers, heads of state, CEOs, artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, journalists and more.
Diverse group of YGL participants pose for a group photo at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos 2026.

Our guiding principles

As part of their commitment to responsible leadership, YGL community members have come together to define principles for interacting with one another and in the world.

Generosity

We take time to listen and support each other at a deep, human level. We go out of our way to make a difference to one another's work. We are inclusive. We challenge each other and make diversity a source of strength.

Authenticity

We bring our real selves to the community. We open up. We seek humility and acknowledge what we do not know, so we can learn from others. We value each other as individuals, beyond the roles we occupy.

Respect

We communicate respect, even when we deeply disagree. We earn trust and honor the commitments we make to one another. We strive for transparency in the way we operate and hold each other accountable.

Impact

We operate as a force for good and stand for something larger than ourselves. We imagine a better world and take personal responsibility to act. We capitalize on diverse talents and networks to achieve more together than we could alone.

FEATURED CASES

The YGL Programme

Each year, we welcome over 100 new members into a three-year development programme that includes academic modules, thematic gatherings and opportunities to contribute to strategic initiatives aligned with the World Economic Forum’s mission.

At the heart of our work is the belief that complexity is not a barrier – it’s an opportunity for those ready to meet it with clarity and collaboration.

65 YGL participants pose for a group photo at Harvard Kennedy School during a 2025 Executive Education programme.
Learning at Harvard Kennedy School 

In 2025, 65 YGLs attended the Harvard Kennedy School’s Executive Education programme, Public Policy in the 21st Century.

70 YGL members gather at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos 2025, themed Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.
World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos

In 2025, 70 YGLs joined the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting in Davos, themed “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age”.

Nearly 500 YGL members, including a wheelchair user, celebrate the 20th Anniversary Summit in Singapore, 2024.
20th Anniversary Summit in Singapore

In 2024, nearly 500 YGLs convened in Singapore for a milestone gathering focused on vision-setting, connection and global foresight.

Outcomes

  • Equipping leaders: Through tailored programs, mentorship opportunities, and curated networks, we empower exceptional individuals with the tools and experiences to shape innovative policies, launch transformative projects, and address systemic challenges like advancing climate resilience, improving education, and scaling healthcare solutions.
  • Building a global network: By connecting over 1,400 diverse leaders across 120+ countries, we foster cross-border collaboration and collective action to tackle critical global issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and public health crises.
  • Driving thought leadership: We produce actionable insights and shape global dialogues by engaging with governments, businesses, and civil society, contributing to platforms like the World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting to advance systemic change and improve the state of the world.

Contact us

For questions, please feel free to contact us via email.