What does it mean to become part of an international organization as a university student? Beyond joining a community, it is an opportunity to develop leadership, expand global perspectives, and contribute to meaningful change. These values were reflected in Youth Today x Join AIESEC (YTJA) 2026, organized by AIESEC in UGM as part of its annual membership recruitment.
Held on September 12, 2026 at the Harjono Danoesastro Auditorium, Faculty of Agriculture UGM, YTJA 2026 served as a continuation from the AIESEC 2026 recruitment process. It also served as a platform for students to gain a deeper understanding of AIESEC’s values, leadership development, and opportunities for global engagement.
The recruitment process was held in August during the Gelanggang Expo 2026, attracting more than 850 applicants from the 2025 cohort and new UGM students, reflecting students’ enthusiasm for opportunities to learn, connect, and grow through an international youth-led organization.
In YTJA 2026, through leadership discussions and sharing sessions, participants were introduced to the idea that leadership is shaped through experience, continuous learning, and the willingness to step beyond one’s comfort zone. The stories of AIESEC in UGM members who participated in international exchanges in Vietnam and Thailand also highlighted how cross-cultural experiences can foster adaptability, intercultural understanding, and a commitment to creating social impact.
Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, these exchange experiences demonstrated how youth can contribute to communities through education while learning from diverse cultural environments. For AIESEC in UGM, international exchange is not merely about travelling abroad, but about empowering young people to become globally minded individuals who are ready to take action and contribute to sustainable development.
Participants were also given the opportunity to interact directly with members from various AIESEC in UGM departments. This allowed them to explore different areas of organizational work, understand the responsibilities of each department, and discover opportunities for personal and professional growth.
“This event gives an opportunity for new students to get to know various campus organizations, like AIESEC in UGM. In AIESEC, we value learning and development, so new students have nothing to fear from us,” explained Falah Aqlyalanadhif, Staff Member of Talent Analytics & Consultant.
Karin, one of the YTJA 2026 participants, shared her positive experience of the event.
“It was very fun,” she said. “From the beginning, the seniors welcomed us with such warm energy. Then we were divided into several groups, in which I got the chance to interact with many people, share stories, and expand our networks.”
She also highlighted how YTJA helped her gain a deeper understanding of AIESEC.
“YTJA leaves a positive impact for us. Through this session, I get to know more about AIESEC, what its aim is, and how AIESEC in UGM is organized,” she added.
Through Youth Today x Join AIESEC 2026, AIESEC in UGM continues to provide a platform for students to develop a leadership mindset, broaden their international outlook, and engage with opportunities that create social impact. As part of UGM’s vibrant student community, AIESEC in UGM contributes to nurturing globally aware and socially responsible young leaders who are ready to take initiative and support sustainable development.
The event reflects the importance of international student engagement in preparing young people to navigate an interconnected world, embrace diversity, and translate their experiences into meaningful contributions to society.
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