High School leadership conferences give students an opportunity to establish necessary skills, generate new ideas, and connect with other students, mentors, and professionals through experiential learning, workshops, and teamwork. Here are ten of the more popular alternatives.
1. HOBY World Leadership Congress (WLC) 2025
Focus: Global citizenship, ethical leadership, critical thinking, and communication skills
Dates: July 19–26, 2025
Deadline: Registration currently open
Since 1968, the WLC has empowered students from over 15 countries to become confident, ethical leaders. The weeklong program features workshops, keynote speakers, service projects, and global networking, all designed to challenge students to think critically and act as global citizens.
2. UNESCO World Heritage Young Professionals Forum 2025
Focus: World heritage preservation, digital innovation, and intercultural learning
Dates: July 1–8, 2025
Deadline: Not yet announced for 2025 (2024 deadline was April 22)
This flagship forum brings together 25 young leaders from around the world to explore digital innovation and heritage preservation. Participants engage in workshops, site visits, and present their declaration at the UNESCO World Heritage Committee session
3. RISE Global Education
Focus: Visionary leadership, innovation, effective communication,research and team-building for aspiring leaders.
Dates: Year-round, flexible
Deadline: Rolling admissions
RISE Global provides high school students with one-on-one mentoring from top university scholars, guiding them through independent research projects that can lead to publication. The program is highly customizable and helps students build a standout academic and leadership profile.
4. The Global Leadership Summit 2025 (GLS25)
Focus: Visionary leadership, innovation, effective communication, and team-building for aspiring leaders.
Dates: August 7–8, 2025
Deadline: Registration ongoing
GLS25 is a renowned global event offering actionable leadership training from world-class speakers. Attendees can join in-person or online, connect with leaders worldwide, and access content in multiple languages.
5. World Leaders Convention (WLC) 2025
Focus: Global policymaking, sustainable development, climate action, and international collaboration.
Dates: June 27–30, 2025
Deadline: Not specified; registration currently open
This four-day convention is designed for emerging leaders to develop skills in global policymaking, network, and collaborate on impactful projects. The agenda includes expert speakers, workshops, and real-world leadership challenges.
6. HOSA International Leadership Conference (ILC) 2025
Focus: Health care leadership, professional development, and innovation in health sciences.
Dates: June 18–21, 2025
Deadline: Registration deadlines vary by state; event in June 2025
HOSA’s ILC is a premier event for future health professionals, featuring competitive events, educational workshops, networking, and leadership development opportunities
7. Dare to Dream Student Leadership Conferences 2025 (New Jersey, USA)
Focus: Self-advocacy, leadership, and transition skills for students with disabilities.
Dates: May 27–June 10, 2025
Deadline: Register by April 16, 2025
These regional conferences focus on self-advocacy, leadership, and transition skills for students with disabilities. The program includes keynote presentations, student-led workshops, and peer networking
8. TEPSA Summer Leadership Conference 2025
Focus: Educational leadership, innovation in school administration, and professional growth.
Dates: June 10–12, 2025
Deadline: Registration ongoing
A dynamic conference with 100+ sessions on leadership, education innovation, and professional development. Features networking, master classes, and an interactive exhibit hall
9. Global Youth Summit 2025 (Global Changemakers)
Focus: Social innovation, youth leadership, and community impact.
Dates: October 20–24, 2025
Deadline: May 25, 2025 (for South African applicants)
A five-day summit for youth leaders to develop skills in leadership, innovation, and impact. The summit includes networking, interactive workshops, and the chance to access grants for youth-led projects
10. Global Young Leaders Conference (GYLC)
Focus: International relations, diplomacy, and cross-cultural leadership.
Dates: Varies by session
Deadline: Rolling
GYLC brings together students from around the world to explore international relations, diplomacy, and global leadership. Participants engage in simulations, visit embassies and international organizations, and develop cross-cultural communication skills.
If you are a high school student pushing yourself to stand out in college applications, RISE Global Education offers a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with mentors from top universities around the world.
Through personalized guidance and independent research projects that can lead to prestigious publications, RISE helps you build a standout academic profile and develop skills that set you apart. With flexible program dates and global accessibility, ambitious students can apply year-round. To learn more about eligibility, costs, and how to get started, visit RISE Global’s official website and take your college preparation to the next level!