Why Youth Engagement Matters Today

Today's challenges require solutions that are not only innovative but also representative of the generations most affected by them. Young people offer fresh ideas, entrepreneurial thinking and a deep understanding of the social, technological and cultural shifts shaping the future. 

Local action is at the heart of Global Shapers

Independent hubs around the world identify and work on projects that are most important to them. We believe that local efforts, supported by a global network, can lead to lasting change worldwide.

Our mission is to inspire, empower and connect leaders to reach their full potential, amplify emerging voices in decision-making, and positively shape their communities and the world.

What we offer

Support and resources

Get the tools, guidance and resources to collaborate with others and turn your shared vision into reality. We offer mentorship, project support and connections to drive collective success.

A global network

Connect with passionate changemakers from around the world. Share ideas, learn from different perspectives and collaborate on projects with global reach.

Skills and training

Develop leadership, communication and project management skills. Access workshops, online resources and opportunities to build your changemaker toolkit.

The great challenges of our time cannot be solved by any single leader, sector or generation. They require collective imagination and shared responsibility. Global Shapers remind us that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but co-creators of solutions today. Their energy, insight and commitment give me greater confidence in our collective ability to improve the state of the world.


Klaus Schwab,

Founder, World Economic Forum

Global Shapers are diverse in terms of education, expertise, income, and identity but are united by a shared belief: that young people working together can create positive and lasting change worldwide. Together, we aim to accelerate the meaningful participation of young people in decision-making at all levels.


Natalie Pierce

Director, Global Shapers Community

We are...

A community of purpose

In each city, our goal is to bring people together. Working with local stakeholders, Global Shapers deliver projects to address the needs of our communities and the world. Projects are wide-ranging and include responding to disasters, fighting climate change, safeguarding mental health and building more equitable and inclusive communities.

A community of action

Global Shapers are connected through technology, training and events. We join forces on joint initiatives to share best practices, grow our skills, practice our leadership and extend our impact. Exposure to the World Economic Forum and its network of experts and leaders, helps us to expand our influence and desire to take meaningful action.

A community of care

The Global Shapers Community is a scalable solution for organising and mobilising the full potential of young people. Since 2011, Global Shapers have implemented over 2,000 projects reaching more than 2 million beneficiaries. We promote intergenerational mindsets and collaboration in decision-making and solution-building to shape a better future.

Leadership

Our leadership team provides strategy and direction, ensuring we maintain our core values and goals.

Klaus Schwab

Founder, World Economic Forum

David M. Rubenstein

Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, Carlyle Group, USA

Ilona Szabó de Carvalho

Co-Founder and President, Igarapé Institute, Brazil

Kathryn Rowan

Executive Director, GAN, Switzerland

Jane Ittogi

Chair, Tasek Jurong

Olajumoke Adekeye

Founder, Young Business Agency and Country Director, Clinton Health Access Initiative

Thales Dantas

Project Architect, Pre-Scouter; Florianópolis Hub

Rumaitha Al Busaidi

Scientist and Environmental Advocate

Team

Our team is committed to making positive change worldwide. We work together to support and empower Global Shapers to make a real difference.

Natalie Pierce

Director, Global Shapers Community

Albina Krasnodemska

Senior Manager, Governance and Engagement (Europe and Eurasia)

Micael Bermudez

Senior Manager, Impact and Engagement (Latin America)

Raissa Kanku

Manager, Events and Engagement (Sub-Saharan)

Kenza M’Haimdat

Manager, Leadership and Engagement (Middle East and North Africa)

Michelle Goyhman

Senior Associate, Analytics and Engagement (North America and Caribbean)

Murchana Roychoudhury

Senior Associate, Insights and Engagement (South Asia)

Paniz Jamali

Senior Associate, Programme and Engagement (Asia Pacific)

Christa Odinga-Svanteson

Senior Manager, Partnerships

Tobias Lindström Battle

Associate, Impact and Initiatives

Ready to start your journey?

Develop as a leader, collaborate for impact and make a global difference.

Global Shapers Community

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