The 2026 International Youth Forum (IYF) on Creativity and Heritage along the Silk Roads is calling young storytellers, filmmakers, and heritage enthusiasts to explore cultural heritage through creative expression and the responsible use of AI.
Quick Facts
- Opportunity Type: International Youth Forum
- Host Organizations: UNESCO, Chinese National Commission for UNESCO, Changsha and Nanjing Municipal Governments
- Location: Changsha & Nanjing, China
- Dates: November 15–20, 2026
- Theme: Youth-led Creative Heritage Expression in the Age of AI
- Nationality: Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, and the Arab States
- Age: 18–32 years
- Eligible Participants: Storytellers, filmmakers, heritage enthusiasts and creative practitioners
- Key Requirement: Willingness to use UNESCO’s “Youth Lens” for storytelling
- AI Component: Participants should integrate AI to showcase local heritage
- Collaboration: International and cross-cultural teamwork
- Application Requirement: Application + video portfolio
- Application Fee: None
- Stipend/Funding:
- Fully funded program covering round-trip international economy-class airfare, accommodation in Changsha and Nanjing, meals during the forum, local event-related transportation, China visa application fees, and travel insurance.
- It does not provide a general living stipend or cash allowance, but all logistical and travel expenses are completely covered by the organizers.
- Degree Required: None
- Work Experience: None
- Deadline: September 27, 2026, 23:59 Beijing Time (UTC+8)
Why This Opportunity Is Interesting
What makes this one stand out is the combination of cultural heritage + storytelling + AI. Selected participants will have the opportunity to collaborate internationally while exploring new ways of presenting heritage through technology and creative practice.
DEADLINE TODAY
Applications close today, September 27, at 23:59 Beijing Time (UTC+8). That’s 9:29 PM IST today, so if you’re eligible, there isn’t much time left to prepare and submit your application.
Could your story, film, or creative idea show the Silk Roads in a completely new way through AI? The deadline is tonight — and this could be the opportunity to find out.
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