As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and digitally driven, the importance of nurturing entrepreneurial talent at a young age cannot be overstated. YFS Global 2024, the sixth edition of this not-for-profit initiative, exemplifies this mission. Supported by the National Youth Council of Singapore, YFS integrates mentorship, training, and funding opportunities within its six-month startup incubator programme.
The journey begins with an intensive five-day residential bootcamp held in Singapore. This immersive experience is designed not only to educate, but also to inspire. Participants engage in workshops on self-awareness and problem-solving, debate global challenges, and collaborate to create innovative solutions.
The programme culminates in the formation of founding teams, whose ideas are further developed through months of mentorship and preparation for a final Demo Day.
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- LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY AND COLLABORATION
- FROM CLASSROOM CONCEPTS TO REAL-WORLD VENTURES
- BUILDING A LEGACY OF IMPACT
- CHARTING A PATH FOR FUTURE INNOVATORS
Leveraging Technology and Collaboration
At its core, YFS promotes a digital-first approach, emphasising skills like market validation through rapid experimentation, ideal customer profiling, and value proposition design. With access to industry leaders from tech giants such as Meta, AWS, and regional disruptors like Grab and Aspire, participants receive guidance that bridges theoretical knowledge and real-world application.
The cross-cultural aspect of the program is equally transformative. In 2024, 80 students from 10 countries came together, enriching their understanding of diverse perspectives and global challenges. As Co-Founder Lim Ee Ling notes, "We want to create builders, risk takers, people who are not afraid to just start. By starting them young, before they are hardened by fear of change and inertia, we unleash innovation that is inclusive and sustainable."
"We want to create builders, risk takers, people who are not afraid to just start. By starting them young, before they are hardened by fear of change and inertia, we unleash innovation that is inclusive and sustainable." – Lim Ee Ling, Co-Founder, YFS
- LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY AND COLLABORATION
- FROM CLASSROOM CONCEPTS TO REAL-WORLD VENTURES
- BUILDING A LEGACY OF IMPACT
- CHARTING A PATH FOR FUTURE INNOVATORS
From Classroom Concepts to Real-World Ventures
The innovation-driven curriculum equips participants with tools similar to those used in Silicon Valley accelerators. These young founders are exposed to practical startup concepts, learning from industry leaders and pitching to actual investors. The result? Alumni who have gone on to create startups addressing real-world challenges – from healthcare AI to sustainable solutions – and who have gained recognition such as The Princess Diana Award and Rise Global honours.
- LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY AND COLLABORATION
- FROM CLASSROOM CONCEPTS TO REAL-WORLD VENTURES
- BUILDING A LEGACY OF IMPACT
- CHARTING A PATH FOR FUTURE INNOVATORS
Building a Legacy of Impact
The impact of YFS extends beyond its participants. By fostering a community of young innovators, the summit contributes to a ripple effect of change. Alumni have not only launched startups, but have also secured prestigious university placements, scholarships, and internships with global tech leaders. YFS’s commitment to collaboration with government agencies, educational institutions, and tech firms ensures a robust ecosystem that continually amplifies its reach and impact.
- LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY AND COLLABORATION
- FROM CLASSROOM CONCEPTS TO REAL-WORLD VENTURES
- BUILDING A LEGACY OF IMPACT
- CHARTING A PATH FOR FUTURE INNOVATORS
Charting a Path for Future Innovators
Innovation thrives in an environment that challenges norms, embraces diversity, and encourages bold thinking. YFS is that environment. It’s not just about entrepreneurship; it’s about equipping Generation Z with the mindset, skillset, and tools to envision and build a better future.
As we look toward Demo Day, which will be held in June 2025, where participants will showcase their fully developed products and services, it’s clear that YFS is not merely an incubator program, but a launchpad for the next wave of global changemakers.
For these young founders, the future is not just an open horizon – it’s a canvas waiting to be reimagined.
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