Leadership with Impact
HCI's Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship.
HCI's Global
Humanitarian
Youth Fellowship
For decades, Human Concern International has engaged young people not only as beneficiaries of humanitarian programs funded by Canadian donors, but as volunteers and participants in our programming. Youth have always played a vital role in the development of humanitarian work in shaping ideas, strengthening communities, and carrying forward the responsibility of service.
In that spirit, HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship was established to more intentionally involve youth in the life and leadership of HCI. Rooted in the Islamic tradition of philanthropy, the program mentors youth in leadership, service, and humanitarian engagement. It provides them with the skills, knowledge, and faith-based grounding to understand why giving and serving others are not optional acts of kindness, but central obligations in our deen.
From the example of the Prophet ﷺ in leading with compassion and generosity, to the tradition of the Sahaba in supporting those in need and building just societies, HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship seeks to cultivate the next generation of leaders who will carry this legacy forward.
Through this initiative, we aim to nurture youth into active global citizens of the ummah who are rooted in their Deen, connected to their communities, and engaged in building real, just, and lasting solutions to the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.
At the heart of this vision is a timeless Islamic principle: that giving is not an act of generosity alone, but an expression of faith and a duty of conscience. Allah ﷻ reminds us in the Qur’an:
“Never will you attain righteousness until you give from that which you love. And whatever you give, indeed Allah is Knowing of it.”
(Surah Aal Imran, 3:92)
Through mentorship, training, and collaboration, HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship offers young people the opportunity to learn from community leaders, contribute their perspectives, and participate meaningfully in shaping HCI’s humanitarian vision. It is a space where youth move beyond volunteers or recipients of aid and become active contributors who are helping design solutions, strengthen communities, and support the journey from crisis to sustainability around the world.
"Never will you attain righteousness until you give from that which you love. And whatever you give, indeed Allah is Knowing of it."
— Surah Aal Imran,
Program Benefits
What You Will Gain from Joining?
HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship is not simply a program you attend but it is a leadership journey rooted in faith, service, and real-world impact.
As a member of the inaugural HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship cohort, you will have the opportunity to actively contribute to the direction of HCI’s youth engagement strategy and community initiatives. Your voice will matter. Your ideas will help shape how HCI works with youth locally and globally.
Training & Mentorship
- Islamic philanthropy and humanitarian ethics
- Leadership development grounded in the Prophetic tradition
- Project design, budgeting, and implementation
- Understanding global humanitarian work and development models
Real Community Engagement
- Volunteer with HCI’s local projects
- Support real humanitarian and community-based initiatives
- Apply what you learn in practical, meaningful ways
This ensures that leadership is not only discussed, but practiced.
Research & Strategy Contribution
As an HCI's Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship participant, you will contribute to shaping HCI’s understanding of Muslim youth priorities. Your feedback, insights, and perspectives will inform how HCI develops future programming, engages donors, and supports communities globally.
Global Exposure
Selected participants may have the opportunity to attend the Global Youth Convention, where youth from across HCI’s international network come together to collaborate, exchange ideas, and pitch community impact projects.*
This experience connects you to a broader ummah of youth leaders committed to service and sustainability.
*Participation in the Global Youth Convention is subject to selection and program criteria.
Recognition & Long-Term Impact
- A Certificate of Completion
- Formal recognition of your leadership and service
- Continued access to HCI mentors and networks
- Ongoing opportunities to engage with HCI initiatives
CEO Advisory committee
- To influence strategy
- Shape programs
- And have an institutional impact
Program Timeline
Global Youth Fellowship
Global Youth Convention in Turkey
As part of the program, selected youth will have the opportunity to pitch their community impact project at the Global Youth Convention, a multi-day international gathering bringing together youth cohorts from around the world for collaborative training, project development, and networking. Selected projects will receive a grant for you and your team to implement at home.
How It Works
Three Phases
Application & Survey
Once you complete your application, you will be invited to complete a survey. Applications are open until April 30th, 2026.
Youth Selection
Our team will review applications and select applicants to be part of HCI's Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship. You can expect to hear back by May 31st, 2026. Our first meeting will take place in June.
Global Youth Fellowship Convention in Turkey
Selected participants will travel to Turkey to pitch their solution to a community issue for a chance to win grants to implement your project back at home.
More than a Program
HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship is designed to help you grow in confidence, clarity, and commitment, rooted in your deen and equipped to serve your community.
It is an opportunity to develop the skills, relationships, and vision necessary to carry forward the tradition of service that defines our faith.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have further questions, please contact us at fellowship@humanconcernusa.org
Turkey
Global Youth Convention in Turkey
As part of the program, selected youth will have the opportunity to pitch their community impact project at the Global Youth Convention, a multi-day international gathering bringing together youth cohorts from around the world for collaborative training, project development, and networking. Selected projects will receive a grant for you and your team to implement at home.
- International Cohorts
- Grant Opportunities
- Turkey Destination
Ready to Make a Difference?
Join the inaugural cohort of HCI’s Global Humanitarian Youth Fellowship. Applications are open April 1 – April 30, 2026. Your journey to becoming a humanitarian leader starts here.