Call for Applications: 2026 International Youth Forum on Creativity and Heritage along the Silk Roads

　2026 IYF is now calling for applications.

　2026 IYF Call for Applications

Calling all young heritage storytellers!

Are you a storyteller, filmmaker, or a heritage enthusiast? Do you want to see the Silk Roads through your lens using AI tools?

We are thrilled to announce that the application for 2026 International Youth Forum (IYF) on Creativity and Heritage along the Silk Roads is now open!

This year, we are looking for creative practitioners who are ready to collaborate and explore innovative ways of interpreting and presenting cultural heritage, including through the responsible use of AI.”

Theme: Youth-led Creative Heritage Expression in the Age of AI

Organizers: UNESCO, Chinese National Commission for UNESCO, Changsha and Nanjing Municipal Governments of People’s Republic of China

Location: Cities of Changsha and Nanjing in China

Date: 15-20 Nov 2026

Who are we looking for?

Must be between 18 and 32 to apply

Be willing to learn and apply UNESCO’s ‘Youth Lens’ for storytelling

Integrate AI to showcase the beauty and innovation of local heritage.

Collaborate in international, cross-cultural teams

How to apply?

Submit your application (including your video portfolio!) via official portal:

https://forms.gle/DGjWru7ox4EzaGLr6

Deadline: 27 Sep 2026, 23:59 (Beijing Time / UTC+8)

Learn more about IYF: https://www.unesco.org/en/node/87405?hub=66929