Innovative, inspiring, connected, engaging – here are just few keywords that could define the experience of Singapore International Water Week (SIWW). Since 2008, the event has become a landmark for water professionals, gathering over 20,000 participants from 133 countries (SIWW 2014), bringing together the government, industry, academia and international organizations sectors.

For a young professional, SIWW offers numerous opportunities. Singapore International Water Week distinguishes itself from the countless other international events for placing special emphasis on the importance of youth, by organizing a dedicated three day event alongside the Water Leaders Summit. For the second year in a row, the Young Water Leaders Summit (YWLS) will welcome a hundred inspiring young leaders in the water sector. Water Youth Network is delighted to join PUB (Public Utility Board of Singapore) once again in organizing this youth gathering:

The selected inspiring young people will take part in preparatory and mingling activities, before attending the Singapore Water Week. Here is a brief programme :

What will you gain?

As young professionals, we all know the difficulties in entering the workforce, the one that education hasnot necessarily prepared us for, such as getting familiar with the work culture, making meaningful connections, understanding the water sector actors or co-creating projects and multi-disciplinary partnerships.

It is a pity that participation by young professionals is still an exception at these kinds of professional events, while they are the stakeholders who could benefit the most from the insights, the networking at these kinds of events. Also, it is a great opportunity to bring in their fresh point of view and showcase innovative water solutions they are working on. Taking into account the fresh point of view and innovative ideas, youth should be included to maximum extent possible. The Young Water Leaders Summit recognizes the importance of youth involvement, and provides a platform for this.

Designed by young water professionals, for young water professionals, the Young Water Leaders Summit (YWLS) aims to:

• Create meaningful and long-lasting connections: In the last SIWW edition, 100 youth participants (students and young professionals) were selected from over 30 countries. Throughout the two-day experience, and various  events and workshops, the young water professionals selected for their leadership potential have learned from each other, created bonds, and shared fun moments. Many of them are still connected via social media.

• Meet senior leaders and mingle with professionals: During this event, receptions and networking events will be dedicated for young people to meet established international business leaders, to connect with successful water professionals and other potential role models from diverse backgrounds.

• Discover the water sector, and the global water industry: SIWW’s Water Expo hosts countless stands, where professionals showcase their activities and their latest technologies and innovations. At SIWW’s Water Forum, many water leaders from the public and private sectors are taking part in high-level panels and other sessions to share their experiences.

How to apply?

Are you a young professional working in the water sector? Are you a student involved in water initiatives, with a passion for bringing the water sector forward? Apply now and maybe you can be part of the  one hundred participants of the Young Water Leaders Summit!

To learn more on the procedure to apply, the fees and other facts, visit the SIWW website.

Considering all the benefits SIWW’s YWLS could bring to your professional career and personal experience, get in touch with your (or another) organisation (companies, universities or foundations) to sponsor you! Some full and partial scholarships will be granted for outstanding applications.

We look forward to meet you in beautiful Singapore !