1. What we do
  2. Special Initiatives
  3. Young Leaders Initiative

Young Leaders Initiative

Shaping the next generation of development leaders

The OPEC Fund Young Leaders Initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity of young civil servants from OPEC Fund member countries. Through high-level exposure, practical learning and peer exchange, the initiative equips emerging leaders with a strong foundation in development finance and a deeper understanding of multilateral cooperation.

Anchored in the OPEC Fund’s Strategic Framework 2030, which recognizes youth as agents of change, the initiative reflects the institution’s commitment to human capital development, South-South cooperation and long-term partnerships with its member countries.

A platform for knowledge and leadership

The Young Leaders Initiative brings together early-career public officials from across OPEC Fund member countries. Participants are selected through a nomination process and engage in an immersive program at OPEC Fund HQ in Vienna, alongside participation in the OPEC Fund Development Forum.

The program combines three core elements:

  • High-level exposure
    Youth Delegates attend sessions of the OPEC Fund Development Forum, engaging with global policymakers, development practitioners and institutional leaders.
     
  • Institutional learning
    Dedicated briefings provide insight into the OPEC Fund’s strategy, operational model, development effectiveness and sustainability priorities. Participants gain practical understanding of how multilateral development institutions operate and deliver results.
     
  • Practical application
    Interactive workshops simulate the design of integrated development finance solutions. Participants work collaboratively to address complex challenges such as climate change and food security, combining financing instruments, technical assistance and strategic partnerships in a structured learning environment.

Inaugurated in 2025

The inaugural edition of the Young Leaders Initiative was held in Vienna in June 2025, bringing together the first cohort of young professionals.

Building on the strong engagement, the OPEC Fund will convene the second edition of the initiative on June 23–24, 2026 in Vienna.