Are you a young storyteller, filmmaker, heritage enthusiast, content creator, or creative practitioner interested in culture, technology and artificial intelligence?
Applications are now open for the 2026 International Youth Forum on Creativity and Heritage along the Silk Roads, an international opportunity bringing young people together in China to explore cultural heritage, creative storytelling and the responsible use of AI.
The programme will take place in Changsha and Nanjing, China, from 15 to 20 November 2026.
This year’s edition focuses on “Youth-led Creative Heritage Expression in the Age of AI.” Selected participants will work with other young creatives from different countries, learn UNESCO’s Youth Lens storytelling approach and explore innovative ways of presenting local cultural heritage through digital and AI-powered tools.
There is no application fee, and selected participants will receive funding covering major costs associated with attending the programme.
Important: Applications close on 27 September 2026 at 23:59 Beijing Time (UTC+8).
2026 International Youth Forum – Quick Overview
| Opportunity | Details |
| Programme | International Youth Forum on Creativity and Heritage along the Silk Roads |
| Organizer | UNESCO and partners |
| Country | China |
| Cities | Changsha and Nanjing |
| Dates | 15–20 November 2026 |
| Theme | Youth-led Creative Heritage Expression in the Age of AI |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Application Fee | None |
| Age Requirement | 18–32 years |
| Deadline | 27 September 2026 |
| Deadline Time | 23:59 Beijing Time (UTC+8) |
| Application Method | Online |
The official call is aimed at young storytellers, filmmakers, heritage enthusiasts and creative practitioners who are interested in using creative approaches and technology to communicate cultural heritage.
What Is the International Youth Forum on Creativity and Heritage?
The International Youth Forum on Creativity and Heritage along the Silk Roads is an international initiative focused on cultural heritage, creativity and intercultural exchange.
It gives young people from different backgrounds the opportunity to meet, share ideas and explore new ways of communicating stories about culture and heritage to wider audiences.
The 2026 edition places particular emphasis on the role of artificial intelligence in creative heritage expression. Participants will explore how emerging technologies can be used responsibly while preserving the authenticity and significance of cultural stories.
The programme is organized by UNESCO, the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO, and the municipal governments of Changsha and Nanjing.
2026 Theme: Youth, Heritage and Artificial Intelligence
The central theme for this year’s programme is:
“Youth-led Creative Heritage Expression in the Age of AI”
Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of filmmaking, photography, digital media, design, storytelling and other creative fields.
The programme will give participants an opportunity to explore how these technologies can support the documentation and presentation of cultural heritage.
Young creatives will be encouraged to combine their existing skills with technology while collaborating with participants from different countries.
The focus is not simply on using AI, but on considering how it can be applied creatively and responsibly when dealing with culture, identity, history and traditional knowledge.
Where Will the Programme Take Place?
The activities will be held in two Chinese cities: Changsha and Nanjing.
Changsha
Changsha is the capital of Hunan Province and is known for its history, cultural heritage, food and growing technology and creative industries.
Nanjing
Nanjing is one of China’s major historic cities and has a rich cultural heritage spanning centuries.
Participants will have the opportunity to experience both locations as part of the programme.
When Is the Forum?
The programme is scheduled to take place from:
15–20 November 2026
Applicants should be prepared to travel to China and remain available for the full programme period if selected.
Is This a Fully Funded Opportunity?
Yes. Selected participants are expected to receive financial support covering major costs related to their participation.
What Does the Funding Include?
The published information states that successful participants are expected to receive:
- Round-trip international economy-class airfare
- Accommodation in Changsha and Nanjing
- Meals during the programme
- Local transportation related to official activities
- China visa application fee
- Travel insurance
Applicants should still carefully review the final travel and participation instructions provided by the organizers, as the exact arrangements may be communicated to successful candidates.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is intended for young people aged 18 to 32 who have relevant interests or experience in creative fields and cultural heritage.
Applicants may come from backgrounds such as:
- Storytelling
- Filmmaking
- Photography
- Digital content creation
- Cultural documentation
- Creative arts
- Media
- Heritage preservation
- Creative technology
- Cultural communication
You do not necessarily need to be a professional filmmaker or heritage specialist.
The important thing is to demonstrate genuine creative interests, relevant experience and the ability to contribute to an international collaborative programme.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
1. Be Between 18 and 32 Years Old
You must fall within the specified age range at the time of application.
2. Have an Interest in Cultural Heritage
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in cultural heritage, including traditions, stories, practices, communities and creative expressions.
3. Be Willing to Learn the Youth Lens Approach
Selected participants will learn and apply UNESCO’s Youth Lens approach to storytelling and cultural expression.
4. Be Interested in Using AI Creatively
Applicants should be able to explore how artificial intelligence can help showcase local cultural heritage in innovative and responsible ways.
You do not necessarily need to be an AI specialist.
5. Be Able to Work in an International Team
The programme involves collaboration with young people from different countries and cultural backgrounds.
Applicants should therefore be comfortable communicating, sharing ideas and working as part of a diverse team.
6. Have Relevant Creative Experience or Interests
The call is particularly relevant to:
- Storytellers
- Filmmakers
- Heritage enthusiasts
- Creative practitioners
Previous projects, creative work or a portfolio can help demonstrate your experience.
Who Should Consider Applying?
This programme may be suitable for young people who are:
- Creating content about African culture and traditions
- Filmmakers or aspiring filmmakers
- Photographers
- Travel storytellers
- Journalists and media creators
- Young artists
- Digital creators
- Cultural heritage enthusiasts
- Creative entrepreneurs
- Documenting indigenous traditions
- Using technology to tell cultural stories
- Interested in the relationship between AI and culture
For African creatives, the programme can also provide an opportunity to introduce perspectives, traditions and stories from African communities to an international audience.
What Will Participants Do?
The programme will focus on collaboration, cultural exchange and creative expression.
Participants will explore different approaches to documenting and presenting heritage using modern creative tools.
Activities may include:
- Cultural storytelling
- Heritage documentation
- Digital content creation
- Filmmaking
- Creative technology
- Artificial intelligence
- Intercultural exchange
- Collaborative projects
- Cultural presentations
- Heritage interpretation
Participants will work alongside young people from different countries, creating opportunities for international networking and knowledge exchange.
Why Is AI Part of the Programme?
Artificial intelligence is changing the way people create, preserve and communicate information.
When applied to cultural heritage, AI and other digital technologies can help creators:
- Develop new storytelling formats
- Create digital experiences
- Reach audiences around the world
- Organize and present cultural information
- Experiment with visual storytelling
- Develop innovative media projects
However, technology also needs to be used carefully when dealing with cultural identity, history and traditional knowledge.
The 2026 programme therefore provides an opportunity to explore the creative possibilities of AI while considering responsible approaches to heritage storytelling.
What Should You Prepare Before Applying?
Applicants should prepare their materials carefully before starting the online application.
The official call specifically requests a video portfolio, so applicants should pay particular attention to presenting their creative work clearly.
1. Prepare a Strong Personal Profile
Introduce yourself and explain what you do, your creative interests and your connection to culture or heritage.
2. Highlight Your Experience
Include relevant projects such as:
- Videos
- Documentaries
- Photography
- Social media campaigns
- Cultural projects
- Community initiatives
- Films
- Articles
- Digital storytelling projects
3. Prepare Your Video Portfolio
The application process requires applicants to submit a video portfolio.
Use your portfolio to demonstrate your storytelling ability, creativity and connection to cultural or heritage-related subjects.
4. Explain Your Interest in AI
If you have already used AI or digital tools in your creative work, explain how.
If you have not used these technologies extensively, you can discuss how you would like to incorporate them into future cultural storytelling projects.
5. Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Think of examples showing that you can work with people from different backgrounds, communities or professional environments.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online through the official application process.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Check that you meet the age requirement and other criteria before beginning the form.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials
Have your personal information, creative experience and video portfolio ready.
Step 3: Complete the Online Form
Fill in the official application form and provide the requested information.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
The closing date is:
27 September 2026 at 23:59 Beijing Time (UTC+8).
Applicants outside China should convert the deadline to their local time to avoid missing the submission window.
APPLY THROUGH THE OFFICIAL APPLICATION FORM.
Applicants should also review the official call for applications for the complete requirements and programme information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2026 youth forum fully funded?
Yes. Selected participants are expected to receive support covering international airfare, accommodation, meals, relevant local transportation, the China visa application fee and travel insurance.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be between 18 and 32 years old.
Where will the programme be held?
Activities will take place in Changsha and Nanjing, China.
What are the dates?
The programme is scheduled for 15–20 November 2026.
Is there an application fee?
No. The application is free.
Do I need to be a professional filmmaker?
No. The call is aimed at young storytellers, filmmakers, heritage enthusiasts and creative practitioners. Relevant interests and experience are important.
Do I need to be an AI expert?
No. Applicants are not required to be AI specialists. However, they should be interested in exploring how AI can be used creatively and responsibly in cultural heritage storytelling.
Can Africans apply?
Yes. The opportunity is international, and eligible applicants from African countries can apply.
Can Nigerians apply?
Eligible Nigerian applicants can submit an application as long as they satisfy the stated requirements.
Do I need a passport before applying?
Applicants should check the current application instructions regarding travel documentation. If selected, international participants will need the appropriate documents for travelling to China.
Will the organizers provide a Chinese visa?
The published funding information indicates that the China visa application fee is covered for selected participants.
This does not mean that a visa is automatically guaranteed. Visa issuance remains subject to the applicable Chinese immigration and visa requirements.
Is accommodation included?
Yes. Accommodation in Changsha and Nanjing is included in the stated funding package for selected participants.
Are flights covered?
Yes. Selected participants are expected to receive round-trip international economy-class airfare.
What can I include in my creative portfolio?
Relevant examples may include videos, documentaries, films, photography, cultural projects, digital content, articles or other creative work demonstrating your storytelling abilities.
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