INSPIRASI Indonesia Young Leaders Programme Opens 2026 Applications for East Indonesian Changemakers

Applications are now open for the 2026 INSPIRASI Indonesia Young Leaders Programme. This capacity-building initiative targets emerging civil society leaders from East Indonesia. The deadline for submissions is January 25, 2026.

The program selects ten participants annually to enhance their skills for community development. It is designed to inspire creative solutions to local sustainable development challenges. The opportunity includes a collaborative group program and a project development phase.

Program Structure and International Partnership

The INSPIRASI program offers a unique blend of local and international perspective. Participants will explore development ideas from both East Indonesia and New Zealand. According to program details, this exposure aims to foster innovative thinking.

A key component is a two-week residential session from June 2 to 12, 2026. During this time, young leaders will work on cross-ethnic and cross-religious collaboration. Each participant will identify a specific community challenge to address.

The initiative is funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. It is managed by UnionAID in partnership with BaKTI and Auckland University of Technology. This international backing provides significant resources and academic support for participants.

Eligibility and Selection for Aspiring Leaders

Strict eligibility criteria ensure the program reaches its target demographic. Applicants must be aged 20 to 30 and live in East Indonesian provinces. This includes regions like Nusa Tenggara, Maluku, Papua, and all of Sulawesi.

Candidates must be employed by a community-based organization or NGO. They need their organization’s support and must intend to stay for a year post-program. A valid Indonesian passport and conversational English proficiency are also mandatory.

The selection panel will prioritize demonstrated leadership and community commitment. They will also look for a clear, relevant development challenge the applicant wishes to tackle. The final group will reflect a diverse mix of ethnicity, faith, and gender.

This prestigious Indonesia Young Leaders Programme represents a critical investment in East Indonesia’s future. It equips a new generation with the tools to drive meaningful, sustainable change in their communities.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Who is eligible to apply for the INSPIRASI programme?

Applicants must be aged 20-30, living and working in East Indonesia. They must work for a community-based organisation or NGO and have organisational support to participate.

Q2: What are the main benefits for selected participants?

Participants gain knowledge, skills, and confidence in sustainable development. They receive mentorship, collaborate on a group project, and develop an actionable proposal for their community.

Q3: How are the young leaders selected?

Selection is based on leadership potential, commitment to development, and a clear community challenge. The panel also considers the applicant’s maturity and openness to working across different groups.

Q4: Is there a cost to attend the programme?

No, the programme is fully funded. It is supported by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, covering the costs for the selected ten participants.

Q5: What is the time commitment for the residential session?

The required residential is a full-time commitment for two weeks, from June 2 to June 12, 2026. Participants must be available for this entire period.

Q6: Do I need a formal English test certificate to apply?

No, a formal certificate is not required. Applicants must have English proficiency equivalent to an IELTS score of 4.5 or higher, but they do not need to submit test proof.