International Youth Leaders Program 2026/2027

International Youth Leaders Program 2026/2027

The International Youth Leaders Program 2026/2027 brings together youth leaders from African, Asian and German churches to learn from one another and develop a program for the “Young & International” section at the German Protestant church event “Kirchentag” 2027.

The program is designed for Christian youth leaders working in youth ministry, education or theology who are interested in international exchange and ecumenical cooperation.

International youth leader program with 15 participants opens new perspectives, promotes intercultural learning and strengthens global solidarity. 

Program Highlights

Part 1: Online Lecture Series
26 October 2026 | 23 November 2026 | 7 December 2026 | 25 January 2027
Online sessions on international youth work from Tanzanian, Indonesian and German perspectives, including exchange with youth leaders from different regions. Further peer exchange sessions will follow between February and April 2027.

Part 2: International Workshop in Germany
1–5 May 2027 | Solingen
15 participants from Africa, Asia and Germany will meet in person to exchange experiences and prepare a program on international youth work and youth empowerment for the German Protestant Kirchentag.

Part 3: Kirchentag Program
5–9 May 2027 | Düsseldorf
The group will present its program in the “Young & International” section of the German Protestant Kirchentag.

Participation

Participants should:

- work professionally in church youth ministry/youth education,
- be active in a UEM member church,
- participate in all program parts.

Application deadline: 20 September 2026

Link to application form: please apply here

More information:
Deacon Claudio Gnypek, United Evangelical Mission
Gnypek-c[at]vemission.org