A Decade of Impact
Here’s to ten years of inspiration, innovation, and impact. The journey has been incredible so far, but the adventure is far from over.
The real essence of YSEALI? It's in the stories.
2023 YSEALI SUMMIT
Get ready for a celebration like no other - a tribute to the incredible ten-year journey since YSEALI's inception.
The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) is a program of the U.S. Department of State and the 2023 YSEALI Summit is implemented by Biji-biji Initiative, an impact-driven organization based in Malaysia.
Gathering 150 accomplished YSEALI alumni from across all 11 member countries, this summit converges in the serene landscapes of Bali, Indonesia.
Together, let’s reflect on the last decade's achievements and set the course for the future - because when young Southeast Asian leaders unite, there's no no dream too audacious.
There will be countless networking opportunities, community dialogues, site visits, and cultural activities which are seamlessly woven into the fabric of the summit, focusing on 4 main objectives:
Accentuate YSEALI Impact
Experience the collective impact of YSEALI alumni in the past decade, and initiate strategic dialogue for the next
Accelerate a network of community leaders
Collaborate and exchange ideas within the YSEALI regional ecosystem
Strengthen capacity of YSEALI leaders
Upskill as global changemakers through professional development opportunities
Impact through solution building
Stand a chance to grab seed grants and mentorship from industry leaders
Photo Gallery
Explore the Unforgettable Moments from 2023 YSEALI Summit
Embark on a visual journey and immerse yourself in the vibrant moments that defined the 2023 YSEALI Summit. From engaging discussions to cultural exchanges, relive the impactful connections, inspiring presentations, and shared experiences that made last year's event truly memorable.
Group Declaration
FutureForward YSEALI:
Pathfinders of Impact
A forward-looking declaration that reflects the aspirations of YSEALI network, showcasing their collective commitment to shaping a sustainable future for Southeast Asia.
YSEALI Time Capsule
A nostalgic journey through time,
where we have united and emerged even stronger.
PHASE 1: November 2023
Inception
(Virtual Pre-Enagagement)
Our event kicks off with a warm and hearty welcome, embracing each participant into the Summit family. This phase consists of pre-engagement activities that aim to gather young leaders in Southeast Asia to reflect on and celebrate a decade of YSEALI and to discuss a vision for the next decade of YSEALI.
PHASE 2: 3-8 December 2023
The Summit
Across four dynamic days in Bali, you will engage in interactive information sessions, expert-led masterclasses, collaborative group exercises, and immersive project-based learning experiences.
A Decade of Impact
Share and learn from the success stories of YSEALI alumni and impact leaders.
Leading with Action
A full day of hands-on, local immersion activities.
Inspire and Grow
Upskill through professional development workshops.
The Future of YSEALI
Strategize the network's future in an unconference setup.
Impact Walk Gallery
An interactive gallery highlighting key milestones of YSEALI Seeds for the Future Fair (SFF)
Leaders’ Library
Dialogues with YSEALI Seeds for the Future alumni on innovations and sustenance towards extended impact.
PHASE 3: Jan - Apr 2024
Onwards (Post-Summit)
Here's your golden ticket to even more excitement: you have the chance to be one of the lucky 50 individuals selected to receive an average funding of USD 700 each to boost your professional growth as a leader.
There's more! We're turning up the heat by offering 20 standout teams the opportunity to secure seed funding of USD 5,000 each. It's a chance for your initiative to take root, flourish, and make an impact in your very own community.
So, are you ready to step up and seize these incredible chances?
.svg)
A dedicated space unveiling the remarkable journey of 11 impactful projects from the YSEALI Seeds for the Future program across Southeast Asia! Immerse yourself in the narratives, witness the progress, and explore the profound impact these initiatives have had over the years.
Visit PageAlumni Impact Stories
Civic Sparks: Igniting Engagement for a Brighter Tomorrow
Read more
Earth’s Guardians: Nurturing Sustainability across Southeast Asia
Read more
Rising Stars: Shaping Education for the Future in Southeast Asia
Read more
A Tale of Champions: Empowering Southeast Asian Agriculture
Read more
Volunteerism and its Impact on Social Change: A Personal Journey
Read more
Youth Advocacy and Engagement: A Personal Journey
Read moreFunding Opportunities
A Decade of
YSEALI Small Grants
20 selected teams will be given USD 5,000 to implement their initiative in their community.
Professional
Development Grants
50 selected individuals will get USD 700 to assist in their professional development as a leader.
Program Criteria
- Participants must be between 18-35 years at the time of the application.
- Applicants must be a citizen and resident of an ASEAN member country (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) or Timor-Leste.
- Working on or aiming to scaling up social impact in their communities and organizations/businesses
- To be eligible, participants must be YSEALI alumni.
Summit Organizers
FAQs
What is the YSEALI Summit 2023?
The YSEALI Summit 2023 is an enriching program aimed at empowering YSEALI alumni to be proactive contributors to their local communities. Scheduled from December 3 to 8, 2023, this summit offers a variety of activities such as workshops, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and hands-on experiences. Special focus is given to networking, skills training, and providing grants and mentorship opportunities for attendees.
The Summit's theme is "A Decade of Impact." It celebrates the collaborative achievements and contributions of YSEALI alumni over the past decade and looks ahead to future collective impact. Activities are designed to strengthen skills, foster networking, and encourage dialogues that will help shape the strategic direction of the YSEALI network in the coming years.
When and where will the Summit take place?
The Summit will be held from December 3 to December 8, 2023, in Bali, Indonesia. Additional details about the specific venue will be shared with confirmed participants closer to the event date. December 3 and 8 are taken into account as travel dates, while the 4-day summit will take place from December 4 to December 7.
What are the requirements for participation in the Summit?
Applicants must be alumni of the YSEALI program to be eligible for the Summit, with age between 18 - 35 by the age of the Summit. Applicants must be a citizen and resident of an ASEAN member country (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) or Timor-Leste. Full engagement in all Summit activities, including pre- and post-Summit engagements, is mandatory. The Summit aims for active participation, fostering collaboration, and open sharing of ideas and experiences.
What is the selection criteria to be a part of the Summit?
The YSEALI Summit 2023 is deeply committed to fostering a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to create an environment where every participant feels valued, respected, and heard. To ensure a diverse mix of attendees, we aim for balanced representation from all participating countries, gender balance, and a range of ages and experience levels. Additionally, we prioritize giving opportunities to individuals who have not previously had the chance to attend a summit in person.
What activities are included in the Summit?
The Summit offers a variety of engaging activities including keynote speeches, panel discussions, leadership talks, breakout sessions, and site visits. Each activity is designed to offer hands-on experiences, foster dialogue, and provide opportunities for networking.
What is the YSEALI Seeds for Future Fair
The YSEALI Seeds for the Future Fair is an integral part of the Summit, highlighting the impactful projects of 11 YSEALI Seeds of the Future past grantees. It consists of two main segments: the Impact Walk Gallery and the Leaders' Library. The Gallery showcases the pivotal milestones of past projects, while the Leaders’ Library offers a platform for alumni (YSEALI Seeds for the Future project teams) to share their leadership journey and insights. The participation of the 11 YSEALI Seeds for the Future past grantees and project teams will be by-invitation and selected by the YSEALI Summit team.
What are the grants available post-Summit?
Two types of grants are available post-Summit:
A Decade of YSEALI Small Grants Competition: This grant is for teams with impactful project ideas. Selected teams will receive a USD 5,000 grant each to implement their project over a three-month period.
Professional Development Grant: This grant focuses on individual skill development, offering up to USD 700 per person. It is available for about 40 to 50 participants and can be used for specialized training, short courses, or to attend key regional forums and workshops.
Both grants aim to empower YSEALI alumni to make a lasting impact in their communities.
What are the accommodation and meal arrangements?
Accommodation will be provided for all selected participants throughout the Summit. Attendees will be accommodated in a reputable hotel close to the Summit venue, with rooms typically being shared between two participants of the same gender to encourage networking and camaraderie. The hotel will offer all basic amenities and Wi-Fi.
In terms of meals, the Summit will provide breakfast, lunch, dinner, and coffee breaks. Participants will be asked about any food restrictions or special dietary needs in advance to ensure everyone is accommodated.
Will transportation be provided?
Yes, round-trip airfare to Bali, Indonesia will be provided for all selected participants. Additionally, local transportation to and from the Summit venue, as well as for any off-site activities and site visits that are part of the official Summit program, will also be provided.