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In the midst of rapid global change and regional challenges, the role of youth has never been more crucial. Young people are no longer merely future leaders. They are today’s decision-makers, innovators, and connectors. Responding to this reality, the Role of Youth ASEAN (ROYA) 2026) emerges as a regional youth empowerment platform that places young voices at the heart of ASEAN’s future.
Carrying the overarching theme “The Ignite ASEAN: Equipping Youth as a Catalyst of Resilience and Unity,” ROYA 2026 is designed to empower ASEAN youth with knowledge, skills, and collaborative experiences that strengthen regional resilience and unity. The program brings together young leaders, professionals, and changemakers from across ASEAN to exchange ideas, build networks, and co-create solutions for shared regional challenges.
ROYA 2026 focuses on three strategic sub-themes that reflect ASEAN’s most pressing priorities and opportunities.
The first sub-theme, Addressing pressing regional challenges such as disinformation, local conflicts, and inequality, while fostering joint youth-led solutions across ASEAN nations. Encouraging ASEAN youth to collectively address real-world challenges such as disinformation, conflict, and inequality by identifying their root causes and developing and implementing innovative, youth-led solutions
The second sub-theme, Advancing inclusive platforms that position youth as key drivers of peace, solidarity, and resilience within ASEAN communities. Strengthening the role of youth as catalysts for peace and unity in ASEAN by building inclusive platforms that ensure their voices and actions are heard and placed at the core of community resilience.
Meanwhile, Strengthening youth resilience by equipping them with adaptive skills to effectively navigate regional and global challenges. Preparing young people with concrete 21st-century skills and adaptive capacities so they are not only able to withstand challenges, but also to guide their communities in navigating regional and global issues.
To enrich the discussions, ROYA 2026 features experienced speakers who bring global and regional perspectives on youth engagement.
Gleb Galerstein, Specialist of the Directorate of International Projects at The Movement of the First, will share insights on “Implementation of Youth International Projects in Russia: Experience at University and State Service.” Drawing from his personal journey, Gleb highlights the realities young people face in navigating international projects, overcoming challenges, and transforming obstacles into opportunities through institutional collaboration.
Another featured speaker, Jose Noel, Project Lead at River Valley Irregulars, will deliver a session titled “ASEAN Without Borders: Youth Diplomacy and the Future of Regional Solidarity.” His discussion centers on the growing role of youth diplomacy in a digitally connected yet divided world, emphasizing data-driven advocacy, regional cooperation, and the responsibility of young people in shaping a more united ASEAN.
ROYA 2026 is structured into a series of interactive sessions designed to balance learning and collaboration.
- Open Registration: 5–30 January 2026
- Day 1 – Speaker Session: 7 February 2026
- Day 2 – Focus Group Discussion (FGD): 8 February 2026
During the Focus Group Discussion, selected participants will be divided into 15 groups across the three sub-themes. Each group will engage in a 90-minute discussion to analyze issues, exchange perspectives, and develop solution-oriented ideas. Selected groups will then present their discussion outcomes in the main session.
Beyond dialogue, ROYA 2026 emphasizes tangible results. Participants are expected to produce concrete outputs, including an Action Plan in the form of a presentation, a Social Campaign concept promoting ASEAN unity, strengthened Cross-Border Networking, and enhanced Presentation Pitch skills.
To appreciate participants’ dedication and contributions, ROYA 2026 will also present awards for:
- Best Presenter
- Best Group Presenter
- Best Group Discussion
Who Should Join?
ROYA 2026 is open to university students, high school students, and members of the general public who are passionate about youth empowerment and regional collaboration. Participants are expected to have sufficient English communication skills and commit fully to all scheduled sessions.
More than just a workshop, ROYA 2026 is a collaborative space where ideas evolve into action and youth voices translate into regional impact. By bringing together diverse perspectives and shared aspirations, ROYA 2026 invites young people to actively shape a more resilient, inclusive, and united ASEAN.
Join ROYA 2026 and be part of the movement that ignites change across borders.
For registration and further information about ROYA 2026, please access the official booklet through the following link:
For any inquiries, please feel free to contact:
Aqilasha +62 812-1514-8507
