Participant Guidelines

Submission Requirements

1. Inclusivity and Accessibility: Participation in the competition and dialogue is free, with efforts made to ensure diversity, inclusiveness, and broad representation.
2. Language: All submissions must be in English to ensure uniformity and accessibility in this international competition.
3. Submission Format: Participating teams are required to submit their entries using the provided template, addressing each of the selection criteria outlined within it. They may also attach detailed information as needed. All materials must be consolidated into a single PDF file. Submissions that do not adhere to the provided template will be disqualified.
4. Registration: To participate, the corresponding members must first register on the ISETS website and join the Youth Group on the ISETS website (isets.org).
5. Video Presentations: For participants invited to submit videos, please ensure your video is in English and includes captions. Your video should contain complete content, a clear structure, and self-consistent logic. The submission guide will be announced in the invitation letter.
6. Rights for Use and Publicity: By submitting entries for the competition, including written documents, videos, and other media, participants grant ISETS and other organizing bodies the right to non-commercial use and the publicity of the entries. [Included as a declaration in the Template]
7. Content Guidelines: Entries must not contain pornography, violence, or engage in religious, racial, and regional discrimination. Submissions must comply with relevant laws and regulations. Originality is required, and plagiarism is strictly prohibited. Videos should not contain advertisements, watermarks, or logos. All entries must adhere to copyright laws and ensure no intellectual property disputes.
8. Participant Information: When submitting entries in the first stage, all group members must accurately provide their dates of birth according to the template instructions. Groups will be disqualified from advancing and from prize eligibility if any participant is found not to meet the age requirements.

Participant Eligibility and Team Composition (18-30)

The Competition invites young thinkers and doers from UN Member States to contribute their ideas towards accelerating the global energy transition. It is open to youth aged 18-30, with dates of birth ranging from January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2007, for the 2025 competition year.

• Individuals or Small Groups: Participants can enter the competition as individuals or in small groups, with a maximum group size of four (4) people.
• Supervisor/Mentor Involvement: Teams may nominate a supervisor or mentor who has offered substantial guidance and support throughout the competition process. It’s important to note that mentors are NOT classified as a team member; therefore, they are not subject to age restrictions.

Selection Criteria

To ensure a comprehensive and impactful contribution to the energy transition, the ISETS-ESCAP Youth Voice on Energy Transition Program has established a detailed set of assessment criteria. These criteria are designed to evaluate the potential of each submission to make a meaningful difference in the global effort toward sustainable energy systems.

The initial submission to the Competition must include an address to the selection criteria (A template will be provided). A detailed document to support the submission is highly recommended:

Screening Criteria (Entries that fail to meet any criteria will not be further assessed)

• Team Qualification: The teams affirm that all members are within the specified age range and hail from UN Member States.
• Impact and Relevance to Energy Transition: Entries must directly address a specific challenge or opportunity within the energy transition including critical mineral development that is essential for the energy transition, demonstrating a clear and thorough understanding of the issue at hand. Submissions should articulate how their proposed solution or innovation has the potential to contribute positively to the energy transition.

Technical Criteria (Submissions NEED to address these criteria)

• Innovation (20 Points): Solutions should showcase originality in approach, methodology, or technology. The assessment will consider how the entry introduces new concepts, ideas, or innovations that stand out from existing solutions.
• Versatility (20 Points):Show versatility for adaptation and describe implementation potential in different scale and different region.
• Sustainability (20 Points): Demonstrate the long-term viability of the solution in terms of environmental, economic, and social factors.
• Impact (20 Points): The expected impact of the solution on the energy transition should be significant and measurable. Entries should provide evidence or projections of how their solution can contribute to reducing carbon emissions, increasing energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy, and addressing environmental and social impacts, among other impact metrics.
• Representativeness (5 Points): Reflects a commitment to diversity and equity within the team composition, including but not limited to: Gender balance; Inclusion of underrepresented groups in terms of ethnicity, disability, and socio-economic background is also encouraged.

For those who are further invited to submit videos or make presentations, the clarity of the presentation will be further assessed.

• Communication (15 Points): The clarity, coherence, and persuasiveness of the presentation of the idea, including how effectively it communicates its value proposition and engages the audience. The shortlist will be based on the total scores out of 100.

These criteria are designed to identify and reward entries that are not only innovative and impactful but also practical and adaptable, reflecting the complexities and scale of the challenge posed by the global energy transition.

Regional Division and Awards System

To ensure a fair and inclusive event, the organizers have established a regional division system and awards criteria based on participation levels.

Division Arrangements

• National Divisions: When the number of participants from a single country exceeds 50, a separate competition division may be established for them. This approach allows us to manage the competition more effectively and ensure participants compete in a more comparable and fairer environment.
• Global Open Division: This division serves as a vibrant and inclusive arena for participants who do not fall within the specific national divisions.
• Others: The organizing committee reserves the right to determine divisions as needed.

Awards System

• Allocation of Awards: Within each division, awards will be allocated based on the effective number of participants. The First, Second, and Third Prizes will account for approximately 20% of the total number of participants.
• Awards Distribution for the Divisions [To be determined]:

Awards will be distributed in each division as follows:

• First Prize: Awarded to the top performers, constituting 5% of the total participants in each division. First Prize winners will be invited to participate in the final stage (global competition)
• Second Prize: Awarded to the next tier of performers, comprising the following 5% of total participants.
• Third Prize: Awarded to the subsequent tier, constituting the next 10% of participants.

The ISETS-ESCAP Youth Dialogue at the Bangkok UN Regional Headquarters

Top of Form

At least one representative from each division’s First Prize-winning team, along with other selected representatives who reflect diversity, will be invited to the United Nations regional Headquarters in Bangkok for the Youth Dialogue. Here, they will also have the opportunity to observe associated United Nations events. This provides a platform to further amplify their voices and ideas on a global stage. Participants in the Dialogue may apply for travel grants to support their transportation and accommodation needs, if necessary. Such requests must be submitted on a case-by-case basis.

Selection Process

Division Management

1. Registration and Division Allocation: Once the deadline has passed, participants will be allocated to their respective divisions based on their country or region and the overall number of entrants from these areas.
2. Competition: Participants will compete within their divisions, with performances or submissions judged according to the prescribed criteria.
3. Judging: The Competition Organizing Committee will appoint a division selection committee to manage the logistics and execution of local competitions to identify division winners. Furthermore, each entry must be reviewed and scored by at least three experts. In instances of significant score discrepancies, the Chair will mediate and make a final decision.

Division Selection Process (Tentatively)

The competition progresses through three pivotal stages: Preliminary, Semi-final, and Final. These stages are designed to rigorously evaluate and showcase the best ideas and solutions from young innovators worldwide.

• Preliminary Assessment (Long List): The division selection committee will evaluate the initial submissions, advancing the top 30% of teams (from a total score of 85) from each division to the next stage.
• Multiple Media Presentation: Teams that have passed the Preliminary stage are invited to submit a multi-media presentation (including video, animation, etc.) of up to 4 minutes, further elaborating on their initial submissions.
• Second Assessment (Short List): The division selection committee will shortlist 20% of the total participating teams in each division based on the multiple media presentations (from a total score of 100).
• Division Finalist Live Presentations: The top 20% of participating teams are invited for a live presentation. The division selection committee will determine the division’s First, Second, and Third Prize winners.

Final Stage (Global Competition)

• On-site Presentations: First Prize winners from each division are invited to deliver a comprehensive on-site presentation. If unable to attend in person, winners may coordinate with the organizers to participate online.
• Global Judging: The global selection committee will assess these presentations to determine the Global First, Second, and Third Prize winners of the competition.
• All participants in the final stage (global competition) will be categorized as either first, second, or third-place winners.

Schedule for the 2025 Competition

• 1 April 2025: Registration opens for the 2nd ISETS-ESCAP Youth Voice Competition.
• 30 April 2025: Deadline for the proposal submission.
• 31 May 2025: Announcement of the divisional shortlists and information for video submission.
• 15 June 2025: Deadline for video submissions.
• 15 July 2025: Announcement of the divisional winners and information for the global final competition.
• 3-5 September 2025: Participation in the ISETS-ESCAP Youth Dialogue, which will be held during the Asia Pacific Energy Week in Bangkok, Thailand.

Note: The cutoff time for each date listed above is 24:00 (GMT+0).

Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at youthvoice_isets@163.com .

ISETS-ESCAP Global Competition of Youth Voice on Energy Transition

Submission Template 2025

Submission Title

Track [Each entry can only be submitted to one track]

Submission Checklist [Incomplete submissions will not be assessed]

Abstract: (150 words limit) Provide a concise summary of your submission, including its core objectives and potential impact on the energy transition.

Addressing the Screening Criteria

Impact and Relevance to Energy Transition: (300 words limit) Describe the specific challenge or opportunity within the energy transition that your entry addresses and how your proposed solution or innovation can contribute positively.

Addressing the Technical Criteria

1.Innovation (20 Points):(300 words limit) Detail the originality of your solution, highlighting new concepts or innovations.

2.Versatility (20 Points):(300 words limit) Show versatility for adaptation and describe implementation potential in different scales and different regions.

3.Sustainability (20 Points):(300 words limit) Demonstrate the long-term viability of the solution in terms of environmental, economic, and social factors.

4.Impact (20 Points):(400 words limit) Provide evidence or projections of your solution’s real-world impact on the energy transition.

5.Representativeness (5 Points):(200 words limit) Describe your team’s commitment to diversity and equity.

Participant Information

Team Photo and Slogan

Declaration 

Click here to download the full template：2025 YV Competition Submission Template

STEERING COMMITTEE

Radia SEDAOUI

Chief Energy, UN Economic & Social Commission for Western Asia

Michael WILLIAMSON

Section Chief, Energy Division, Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific

Xunpeng SHI

President, International Society for Energy Transition Studies . Professor, University of Technology Sydney, Australia

OGRANIZING COMMITTEE

Muyi YANG

Secretary, International Society for Energy Transition Studies . Senior Researcher, Ember

Chin-Hsien YU

Deputy Secretary, International Society for Energy Transition Studies. Professor, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics

YOUTH ORGANIZERS

Xingyu CHEN

Ph.D. Student at SWUFE. Majoring in Energy Economy and Environmental Policy at School of Public Administration.

Yi FU

Ph.D. Student at SWUFE. Majoring in Economic History at School of Economics. Secretariat Assistant, ISETS.

Xinrui LI

Ph.D. Student at SWUFE. Majoring in Development Economics at School of Economics. Secretariat Assistant, ISETS.

Miaomiao LIU

Ph.D. Student at SWUFE. Majoring in Public Economics at School of Public Administration.

Yingyi SHI

Ph.D. Student at SWUFE. Majoring in Development Economics at School of Economics. Secretariat Assistant, ISETS.

Jiao TIAN

Ph.D. Student at SWUFE. Majoring in Public Economics at School of Economics. Secretariat Assistant, ISETS.

2025 ISETS Youth Ambassadors Global Recruitment Announcement

Empowering Youth Leaders, Leading the Energy Future!

To inspire a sense of social responsibility and innovation among young people and promote collaboration and exchange among youth worldwide, we are officially launching the 2025 ISETS Youth Ambassadors Selection Program. As a global representative of the ISETS Youth Network, you will have the opportunity to voice your ideas on international stages, drive innovative solutions, and collaborate with top global experts, policymakers, and youth leaders. Whether you are a young researcher in the energy sector, a community activist, or a climate policy advocate, if you are passionate about energy transition, we welcome your application!

Ⅰ. Organization Overview

The ISETS Youth Network for Energy Transition and Climate Action (ISETS Youth) is a global platform that empowers young leaders to contribute actively to the global energy transition and climate action efforts. The network encourages collaboration, innovation, knowledge-sharing, and leadership development among youth committed to addressing global energy and climate challenges.

The ISETS Youth Committee leads the network, guiding its strategic direction and playing a hands-on role in implementing youth-led initiatives. Supported by the ISETS Youth Secretariat, under the leadership of the Deputy Secretary for Youth Engagement, the Committee ensures that youth voices are integrated into global discussions on energy transition and climate action.

Ⅱ. Leadership Structure

ISETS Youth Committee

The ISETS Youth Committee is the main leadership body of the ISETS Youth Network, responsible for both strategic direction and implementation of the network’s activities. The Committee consists of youth leaders elected from different regions, with operational and logistical support from the ISETS Youth Secretariat.

ISETS Youth Secretariat

The ISETS Youth Secretariat operates under the leadership of the Deputy Secretary for Youth Engagement and provides essential support to the Youth Committee. The Secretariat manages day-to-day operations, organizes events, and facilitates communications to ensure the smooth functioning of the network.

III. Eligibility

1.Competition Performance: Participated in the 2024 ISETS-ESCAP Global Competition of Youth Voice on Energy Transition and achieved a Prize in the Global Final.

2.Professional Background: At least one year of practical experience in energy transition or climate action.

3.Language Proficiency: Strong English communication skills (written and oral).

Ⅳ. Experience and Competency Requirements

1.Leadership: Demonstrated organizational and leadership skills; prior roles as a youth organization leader, community project initiator, or youth representative at international conferences.

2.Social Engagement: Experience in social initiatives or volunteer services.

3.Innovation: Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities; publications, patents, or awards in energy transition, climate action, or related fields.

4.Preferred Qualifications: Participation in international initiatives (e.g., UNFCCC, IPCC) or interdisciplinary collaboration (e.g., projects combining technology and policy).

Ⅴ. Key Responsibilities

1.Represent ISETS Youth at international forums and events, such as the UN ESCAP Youth Dialogue and ISETS Annual Conference.

2.Advocate for youth involvement in global energy policy discussions.

3.Collaborate with the Youth Committee on global outreach and advocacy efforts.

4.Serve as a volunteer for the 2025 ISETS-ESCAP Global Competition of Youth Voice on Energy Transition, supporting the youth organizers in event coordination.

Ⅵ. Application Process

1.Submission: Send all application materials to youthambassador1@163.com by March 2, 2025.

2.Screening and Assessment: Shortlisted candidates will enter a probationary period as volunteers for the 2025 ISETS-ESCAP Global Competition of Youth Voice on Energy Transition.

3.Evaluation: Performance during the probationary period will be assessed by the youth organizers.

4.Final Appointment: After the 2025 ISETS-ESCAP Global Competition, candidates are required to formally apply for the Youth Ambassador position. Final appointments will be made by the ISETS Executive Committee during the ISETS Annual Conference, in consultation with the Youth Committee. (As the Youth Committee is yet to be set up, the Executive Committee will complete this step independently for this year.)

VII. Application Materials

Please submit a compressed folder named “[Youth Ambassador Application-Applicant’s Name]” to youthambassador1@163.com with:

1. Completed application form (ISETS Youth Ambassador Application Form).
2. Detailed resume highlighting experience and expertise.
3. Recommendation and signature from at least one youth organizer. (Please send the completed application form to youthorganizer@163.com for youth organizers’ recommendation. Six youth organizers will sign in the “Youth organizer recommendation” section of the forms of the applicants they recommend, with each recommending 3 candidates at most.)
4. A 500-word plan outlining your promotional strategy during the probationary period and post-appointment goals.

5.Supplementary materials (certificates, awards, etc.).

VIII. Selection Process

Youth Ambassadors are appointed after the Youth Voice Competition by the ISETS Executive Committee, in consultation with the Youth Committee, based on their achievements in the competition or demonstrated leadership in youth advocacy.

Ⅸ. Important Dates

• Application Opens: February 15, 2025
• Application Deadline: March 2, 2025
• Shortlist Announcement: March 15, 2025
• Probationary Period (Volunteer Role): April–September 2025
• Candidates’ Formal Application Submission: October 30, 2025
• Youth Ambassadors Announcement: December15, 2025

Ⅹ. Tenure Assessment and Advancement

1.Term and Assessment: One-year tenure with annual performance review by the ISETS Executive Committee and submission of an annual work report upon completion of the tenure. Successful candidates may apply for renewal.

2.Youth Committee Eligibility: Youth Ambassadors completing a successful term may apply to join the Youth Committee. Those who are approved to join the Youth Committee will be eligible to run for the positions of Chairperson and Vice – Chairperson.

3.Retirement: Automatic exit from the committee and ambassadorship at age 35.

Visit www.isets.org for more details. Join us in shaping a sustainable future!

Call for Partners: ISETS-ESCAP 2025 Youth Voice Competition on Energy Transition and Youth Dialogue

The International Society for Energy Transition Studies (ISETS) invites organizations and institutions worldwide to partner with us in supporting ISETS-ESCAP 2025 Youth Voice on Energy Transition Program, the 2nd annual edition of this prestigious initiative. This program empowers young leaders to drive innovation and dialogue on sustainable energy solutions, fostering global collaboration in the energy transition sector.

Why Partner with Us?

• High Visibility: Gain exposure as part of a United Nations initiative alongside global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.
• International Collaboration: Engage with a diverse network of energy professionals, researchers, and young innovators.
• Innovation & Research: Support and gain access to cutting-edge ideas, projects, and solutions shaping the future of energy.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): Align with a high-impact global initiative promoting sustainability and youth empowerment.

Partnership Opportunities

We welcome partners from all countries, sectors, and disciplines, including businesses, NGOs, research institutions, media organizations, and government agencies. Opportunities include:

1. Sponsorship Partners

Help fund and expand the impact of the program while gaining international recognition. Sponsorship levels include:

• Platinum Partner (Title Sponsorship) – Exclusive rights to host the Global Final and Youth Dialogue, prime branding and keynote speaking opportunity.
• Gold Partner (Major Sponsor) – Speaking role, exhibition booth, and priority networking at UN events.
• Silver Partner (Supporting Sponsor) – Brand exposure, booth, and access to networking opportunities.
• Partner (Entry-Level Sponsor) – Logo placement and promotional benefits.

2. Technical Partners

Provide expertise, training, or technology support to young innovators. Contributions may include:

• Mentorship programs and capacity-building workshops.
• Access to research facilities, tools, and knowledge-sharing.
• Co-development of innovative energy solutions.

3. Media Partners

Help amplify the voices of young leaders through:

• Exclusive media coverage, interviews, and reports.
• Live streaming and broadcasting of key events.
• Co-branded content creation for global dissemination.

4. Organizing Partners

Co-host regional or thematic events, workshops, and networking sessions to enhance engagement. Suitable for:

• Universities and research institutions.
• Industry associations and think tanks.
• Government agencies promoting sustainable energy policies.

5. Outreach and Community Partners

Engage youth communities by facilitating local competitions, promoting the event, and supporting youth participation. Ideal for:

• Youth organizations and climate action groups.
• Incubators and accelerators fostering energy startups.
• NGOs working on sustainable development and climate change.

Secure Your Partnership Today!

📩 Contact us at isets@isets.org to discuss tailored partnership opportunities before 31 March 2025.

⚠️ Positions are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis after 1 April 2025.

🌍 Visit isets.org/youth-competition-2025 for more details and to submit your partnership inquiry.

Join us in empowering the next generation of energy leaders and shaping a sustainable and inclusive energy future! 🚀