Apply to become a Young Leader in diabetes 1 April 2026 If you are a young Australian living with diabetes and you’ve ever thought, “I wish things were different,” — this program is for you. Expressions of interest are now open for the International Diabetes Federation Young Leaders in Diabetes Programme. This is a global initiative open to anyone aged 18-30 years old living with diabetes who wants to make a real impact. Diabetes Australia is the only Australian organisation authorised to nominate candidates for the International Diabetes Federation Young Leaders Programme. Expressions of interest are now open. What is the IDF Young Leaders in Diabetes Programme? The IDF Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) Programme brings together young people living with diabetes from around the world to lead change through advocacy, education, awareness, and community building. It is a volunteer program designed for people who want to contribute to meaningful diabetes projects and build leadership skills, empowering them to lead change, raise awareness, and stand up against stigma and discrimination. As the sole Australian member organisation of the Western Pacific region of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Diabetes Australia is proud to be the exclusive pathway for Australian youth to participate in the Young Leaders in Diabetes (YLD) Programme. We play a vital role in identifying, selecting, supporting, and nominating YLD trainees for IDF consideration. 2025–2027 Cohort 79 Members 48 Countries 2–4 Hours per month commitment What’s involved? This program is more than a title; it’s a hands-on leadership experience with real-world impact. Here is what to expect and what you’ll walk away with: Lead your own meaningful diabetes project in education, advocacy, awareness, or community engagement Attend the Young Leaders Training Summit at the IDF World Diabetes Congress Receive ongoing mentorship from Diabetes Australia throughout your entire project journey Build global connections and learn alongside peers from nearly 50 countries Take part in the IDF advocacy development program to grow your skills as a leader The friendships built through the program, formed through our shared challenges, triumphs, and a passion for change, are something I will always hold close”~ Jenna Cantamessa, Young Leader in Diabetes Who can apply? Applicants need to be passionate about making a difference, open to learning new skills, and able to commit time to the Program and to delivering their project. The full list of requirements to join the YLD trainee program includes: Live with any type of diabetes Aged between 18 and 30 by 30 November 2026 Able to communicate effectively in English (a video interview may be requested) Have an active connection with an IDF Member Association Be passionate about making a difference in the diabetes community Have the desire to develop, execute, and report a diabetes project agreed with an IDF Member Association Have reliable access to the internet for communication and reporting purposes Be available two to four hours per month for the YLD program Explore more about eligibility and expectations. How the process works To become a YLD trainee, there are four steps for young Australians: Step 1: Express your interest by emailing Diabetes Australia with your project ideaStep 2: Diabetes Australia selects and nominates candidates to the IDFStep 3: The IDF reviews all nominations and advises on successful candidatesStep 4: Successful trainees are awarded and begin their YLD journey Ready to express your interest? We’re excited to hear from passionate, young Australians ready to make a difference in diabetes advocacy. The next intake for the YLD program will be in October 2027, with applications opening in April – September 2027. To express your interest early, email us at: [email protected] In your email, tell us: What is your project idea Who you hope to reach What impact you want to make Any fundraising ideas you may have to support your project Where can I learn more? Find out everything you need to know, including what past leaders have gone on to do, at the links below: IDF – Young Leaders in diabetes Diabetes Australia ambassadors – Young leaders
Blog 22 April 2026 Here’s what happens when lived experience becomes a movement Meet the Blue Circle Collective — a national network of Ambassadors, Advocates, and Advisers united to drive meaningful change for all Australians. What is... Continue Reading
News 20 April 2026 Champion Australian sprinter Lachie Kennedy gets Blue Circle Collective off to a flying start One of Australia’s brightest stars is spearheading a newly formed group to amplify the voices of people living with diabetes.... Continue Reading
Blog 16 April 2026 Caitlin asks for life-saving diabetes technology to be unlocked for those who need it most A young mother in Bendigo is asking the government to change the lives of Australians living with diabetes by making... Continue Reading
