Young Leaders Program
For more than five decades, the German-American Young Leaders Conference has been one of Atlantik-Brücke’s most prestigious programs. Each year, the most promising young professionals from the United States and Germany come together for an inspiring interdisciplinary exchange that spans continents, worldviews, and industries. Through an exciting six-day program, the Young Leaders Conference creates a unique platform for networking, developing innovative ideas, and laying the groundwork for the transatlantic relations of tomorrow. Participants engage in discussions on the most pressing political, economic, and social issues within dynamic working sessions, meetings with high-level guest speakers, and enriching site visits. This fosters not only mutual understanding but also creates sustainable professional as well as personal bridges between aspiring talents from both countries. Following the conference, Atlantik-Brücke Young Leaders become part of the global alumni network.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
How Do You Become a Young Leader?
Every year, 50 aspiring young professionals from different sectors are selected for the Young Leaders Conference – 25 from the USA and 25 from Germany. Interested persons must be aged 28-35 and hold American and/or German citizenship. A high-ranking jury selects the conference participants at the end of a highly competitive multi-stage selection process.
Summary of the Selection Process:
1. Nomination (December – January):
During the nomination phase (Call for Nominations), from early December to mid-January, Young Leaders Alumni and members of Atlantik-Brücke are invited to nominate up to two individuals. Eligible nominees must be aged 28-35 and hold American and/or German citizenship for the Young Leaders Conference.
2. Invitation to Apply (January – February):
Nominated individuals receive the exclusive opportunity to apply for the Young Leaders Conference from mid-January to mid-February (Call for Applications). This is an invitation to showcase their leadership qualities and interest in transatlantic relation.
3. Selection by Jury (until May):
In the final step, all applications are thoroughly reviewed by a high-ranking selection committee. This jury, consisting of 15-20 experienced experts from politics, business, media, and other sectors, ultimately selects the approx. 25 American and 25 German participants. All applicants will receive feedback on their applications by the end of May.
4. Young Leaders Conference (August):
The six-day conference traditionally takes place in August, with the location alternating annually between the United States and Germany. Atlantik-Brücke covers all costs incurred during the conference, including accommodation, group meals, bus transfers, and activities. However, participants or their employers are responsible for covering the costs associated with travel to and from the conference.
How does the alumni network work?
Since the first German-American Young Leaders Conference in 1973, a unique and diverse alumni network has emerged, bringing together people from different countries, professional fields, and generations. Today, alumni hold leadership positions in U.S. and German politics, the European Union, business, finance, media, the military, and academia.
The Atlantik-Brücke actively supports and fosters its alumni network. Regular events and conferences are organized to further strengthen the exchange among Young Leaders alumni across the Atlantic. Particular emphasis is also placed on fostering encounters and dialogue with members of the Atlantik-Brücke. The Young Leaders alumni network now comprises around 1,800 individuals from Germany and the United States.
Who can I contact if I have any questions?