Kenyan students and young professionals aged 16 to 45 can apply for the International Youth Leadership Dialogue 2027 in Manchester, UK, from 15 to 18 April 2027. 30 Fully Funded seats cover return airfare from Kenya, a shared 4 star hotel and meals, and 40 Partially Funded seats cover everything except airfare.
Why Kenyan delegates apply
Kenya is a hub for youth innovation in East Africa, and Kenyan delegates often arrive with community projects they want to grow. IYLD 2027 gives them four days to practise diplomacy, negotiation and public speaking with peers from dozens of countries, and a certificate of participation to show for it.
Funded seats
- Fully Funded (30 seats): return airfare, shared 4 star hotel, meals during the forum, invitation letter, embassy support, full programme access, a speaking opportunity, delegate kit and certificate.
- Partially Funded (40 seats): everything above except airfare.
Deadline in Kenya time
Applications close at 11:59 PM GMT on 15 January 2027. In Kenya (EAT, GMT+3) that is 2:59 AM on 16 January. We recommend applying a day early so payment problems or slow connections do not cost you your place.
UK visa from Kenya
Delegates from most countries in Africa and Asia need a UK Standard Visitor visa. According to gov.uk, the visa costs £135 for up to 6 months, you can apply up to 3 months before you travel, and you will usually get a decision within 3 weeks. The Standard Visitor rules allow you to attend conferences and seminars.
Because the summit starts on 15 April, the visa window opens in mid January. Results are announced on 10 February 2027, so selected delegates have plenty of time to apply with their official invitation letter, which we issue to every confirmed delegate along with a visa checklist and embassy support.
You apply online and then prove your identity at a UK visa application centre. In Kenya there are centres in Nairobi; check the current list for your city on gov.uk before you book.
Travelling from Kenya to Manchester
Manchester Airport is well connected internationally, with one stop routes through hubs such as Doha, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul. Fully Funded delegates have their return airfare covered. The venue, Revolution Manchester Deansgate Locks, is in the city centre.
Paying the application fee
Scholarship applications (Fully Funded and Partially Funded) carry a £13.99 application processing fee, which pays for assessment by the selection panel. If you would rather have a confirmed place than compete for a funded one, the Premium Access Pass (£299) and Self Funded package (£799, with shared 4 star accommodation) guarantee your seat straight away. Every category lists exactly what is and is not included before you pay.
Payment is taken in British pounds by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Make sure your debit or credit card is enabled for international online payments before you start.
How to apply
- Choose your category on the IYLD 2027 page.
- Complete the online application. It takes about 10 minutes and there is no essay word minimum.
- Pay the fee securely by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- Scholarship results are emailed on 10 February 2027. Guaranteed passes are confirmed straight away.
Frequently asked questions
01Can Kenyan citizens apply for IYLD 2027?
Yes. IYLD 2027 is open to every nationality, including Kenyan citizens and Kenyan students living abroad, aged 16 to 45.
02What time is the deadline in Kenya?
Applications close at 11:59 PM GMT on 15 January 2027, which is 2:59 AM on 16 January in Kenya (EAT, GMT+3).
03What does Fully Funded cover?
Return airfare, shared 4 star accommodation, meals during the forum, an official invitation letter, embassy support, full programme access, a delegate kit and a certificate of participation. There are 30 Fully Funded seats.
04Do Kenyan applicants need IELTS?
No. No IELTS or TOEFL is required, but you should be comfortable taking part in discussions in English.
05Do I need a visa?
Most delegates from Africa and Asia need a UK Standard Visitor visa, which costs £135 according to gov.uk and is usually decided within 3 weeks. Every confirmed delegate receives an official invitation letter and visa guidance.