April 5 - 11 , 2027 - Ottawa, Canada
Global Youth Innovation Journey (GYIJ)
International Youth Leadership & Innovation Conference
Register Now View ProgramThe Global Youth Innovation Journey (GYIJ) is a 7‑day international youth leadership and innovation conference hosted in Ottawa, Canada. It brings together students, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and youth leaders from across the world to learn, build, and launch impactful projects for their communities.
What is GYIJ?
The Global Youth Innovation Journey (GYIJ) is a flagship youth leadership and innovation initiative of FEAV Foundation (Canada). Designed as a journey—not just a conference—GYIJ transforms young people from potential into confident, globally minded innovators and leaders.
Why Canada
Canada is one of the world’s most culturally diverse and globally connected nations. As a country that sits at the crossroads of global ideas, cultures, and innovation, Canada is uniquely positioned to shape, train, and inspire the next generation of global leaders.
At GYIJ, participants experience Canada’s multicultural environment firsthand — a place where global leadership begins.
Program Highlights
A Journey of Transformation, Innovation, and Global Impact,
The Global Youth Innovation Journey (GYIJ) is not just a standard line-up of presentations; it is an immersive, hands-on experiential program designed to unleash your hidden potential. Over the course of 7 days in Ottawa, you will engage in dynamic workshops, collaborate in high-energy labs, and receive direct guidance from industry experts. Our curated curriculum bridges the gap between ambitious ideas and real-world execution, equipping you with the exact tools, mindset, and networks required to drive meaningful change in your community and beyond.
Leadership Training
Discover your authentic leadership style and build the core competencies needed for the modern world. This training focuses on strategic communication, emotional intelligence, personal values, and the confidence required to lead diverse teams through complex global challenges.
Innovation Labs
Step into a space where creativity meets action. Through intensive design thinking sessions and real-world case studies, you will learn how to break down complex problems, brainstorm disruptive solutions, and collaborate with international peers to build practical, community-centered projects..
Entrepreneurship Coaching
Turn your passion into a sustainable venture. Learn the foundations of social entrepreneurship, business model creation, and agile project management. Our experienced mentors will guide you through the process of structuring an idea so it is viable, scalable, and ready for market.
Global Citizenship Sessions
Expand your worldview and embrace the power of diversity in Canada’s multicultural capital. Engage in deep intercultural dialogues and global youth panels that explore peace, inclusion, sustainable development, and your unique role as a globally minded changemaker.
Youth‑Led Project Pitching
Put your ideas to the ultimate test. On Pitch Day, teams will step onto the stage to present their developed projects to a panel of expert judges. Receive invaluable, real-time constructive feedback, showcase your innovation, and compete for recognition and awards.
Certificates & Mentorship
Your journey doesn’t end when the conference finishes. Walk away with an official Certificate of Participation to boost your professional profile, alongside ongoing access to a global alumni network and mentorship opportunities designed to support your growth long after you return home.
Who Should Attend?
Is This Journey Built for You?
The Global Youth Innovation Journey (GYIJ) 2026 is a diverse, cross-disciplinary platform that transcends borders and industries. We believe that groundbreaking innovation happens when different perspectives collide. Whether you are looking to launch a social enterprise, accelerate your professional career, or amplify your voice on the international stage, this conference offers the environment, tools, and community to elevate your path. If you are passionate about driving change and ready to develop a global mindset in Canada, you belong here.
University and college students
Bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world impact. Expand your horizons beyond the classroom, gain highly sought-after practical skills in leadership and design thinking, and kickstart an international network that will give you a competitive edge as you prepare to enter the global workforce
Young professionals
Step out of your daily routine and accelerate your career trajectory. This journey is designed to sharpen your strategic communication, cross-cultural collaboration, and problem-solving abilities—essential leadership skills that will help you stand out and drive innovation within your organization.
Youth leaders and activists
Amplify your voice and scale your community impact. Connect with fellow changemakers fighting for sustainable development, peace, and inclusion. Learn how to structure your advocacy campaigns, exchange best practices, and return home with a concrete framework to mobilize youth more effectively.
Early‑stage entrepreneurs
Transform your raw passion into a sustainable, scalable business model. Gain direct access to experienced business coaches, refine your project planning skills, and learn the mechanics of social entrepreneurship. The pitch competition offers the perfect arena to stress-test your ideas before expert judges
Members of youth organizations
Strengthen the institutional capacity of your association or club. Send your delegates to absorb international methodologies in project design and team management, build powerful cross-border partnerships, and bring back fresh, global perspectives to revitalize your local initiatives.
Be Part of a Global Youth Movement
Your journey to global leadership begins here. Join hundreds of young innovators in Canada.