ITU, Canada Launch ITU160 Gender Champions Initiative

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), in collaboration with the Government of Canada, has launched the ITU160 Gender Champions initiative to commemorate ITU’s 160th anniversary.

This program seeks to empower nine young women, aged 18 to 25, who are making significant contributions to digital development and transformation worldwide.

Are you a young woman driving impact in digital transformation? @ITU & are offering a fully funded opportunity for 9 #ITU160 Gender Champions to participate in #WSIS+20, @AIforGood Summit, and anniversary events in Geneva.

Apply by April 6 https://t.co/2Oc5H5iw2e pic.twitter.com/ZgP5nWrXol

— Int’l Telecommunication Union (@ITU) March 8, 2025

Program Highlights:

Fully Funded Participation: Selected candidates will receive coverage for travel and accommodation expenses to attend key events in Geneva, Switzerland, from 7–11 July 2025.

Event Involvement: Participants will engage in the WSIS+20 High-Level Event, the AI for Good Global Summit, and ITU’s 160th-anniversary celebrations.

Active Engagement: The program offers opportunities to interact with stakeholders in the digital and tech sectors, amplify personal contributions to digital development, and co-design workshops focused on promoting gender equality in digital transformation.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Women aged between 18 and 25.
• Particularly encouraged are applicants from developing countries, least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, small island developing states, indigenous communities, and those with disabilities.

Application Process:

• Deadline: 6 April 2025 (11:59 pm CEST).
• Apply Here: itu.int

This initiative underscores ITU and Canada’s commitment to fostering gender equality and empowering young women in the digital landscape.