Global Shapers Community

Global Shapers Community. It is a global network of young leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists operating under the auspices of the World Economic Forum. Founded to empower individuals under the age of 30 to drive dialogue, action, and change in their local communities, the community connects members across a vast array of cities and countries. Its mission is rooted in the belief that young people possess the energy, ingenuity, and passion to tackle the world's most pressing challenges.

History and founding

The initiative was launched in 2011 by Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum, during the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos. Its creation was a direct response to the Arab Spring and other global youth-led movements, recognizing the need to formally engage the next generation in shaping the future. The inaugural group of Global Shapers was curated from participants at the World Economic Forum on the Middle East and North Africa and other regional events. Early support and guidance came from Forum leaders like David Aikman, who served as its first managing director, helping to establish its core principles and global footprint.

Organization and structure

The community is organized as a network of local chapters, known as hubs, which are based in major cities like London, Lagos, and São Paulo. Each hub operates semi-autonomously but aligns with the overall framework and guidelines set by the central World Economic Forum team in Geneva. Governance includes a global curator, often a senior member of the Forum staff, and a board of advisors featuring notable figures such as John D. Rockefeller IV and Queen Rania of Jordan. The World Economic Forum provides strategic direction, while day-to-day activities are led by hub curators and members, fostering a decentralized, grassroots model of leadership and project execution.

Activities and impact

Hubs execute a diverse portfolio of local projects addressing issues from climate change and social entrepreneurship to public health and education reform. Notable initiatives have included disaster relief efforts following the 2015 Nepal earthquake, advocacy campaigns at the United Nations Climate Change Conference, and digital literacy programs in partnership with organizations like UNESCO. Members regularly contribute to global dialogues, publishing insights in forums such as the World Economic Forum Agenda and participating in events like the Sustainable Development Impact Summit. These activities aim to create tangible local impact while informing broader international policy discussions.

Hubs and membership

Membership is highly selective, with each hub typically comprising 20 to 50 individuals between 20 and 30 years old who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and commitment to service. Prospective members are nominated and vetted through a rigorous process involving current shapers and community alumni. Hubs exist in hundreds of cities worldwide, including Tokyo, Cairo, Bogotá, and Sydney, creating a truly global tapestry of young leaders. Alumni of the community, known as Senior Shapers, continue to engage as mentors and advisors, maintaining lifelong connections to the network and its evolving mission.

Recognition and partnerships

The community has forged significant partnerships with international bodies, corporations, and NGOs to amplify its work. It collaborates closely with entities like the United Nations Development Programme, the World Health Organization, and corporate partners such as Salesforce and Microsoft. Members have been recognized through awards like the Forbes 30 Under 30 and have been invited to speak at prestigious events including the TED Conference and the Paris Peace Forum. These collaborations and recognitions validate the community's role as a credible and influential platform for youth engagement in global affairs.

Category:World Economic Forum Category:Youth organizations Category:Organizations based in Geneva Category:Organizations established in 2011