International Gold Event (IGE)
What is the International Gold Event (IGE)?
The International Gold Event (IGE) is a transformative personal development opportunity designed to empower the next generation of Award ambassadors. It is open to Gold Award holders aged 18 to 28, who have been specially selected for demonstrating their potential to make a meaningful impact on the Award, both in their country and internationally.
For Operators, IGE is more than just an event—it is a strategic investment in future leadership. Participants will engage in an intensive learning program focused on influencing change, impactful communication, and driving strategic development at national and global levels. They will gain the skills and confidence to advocate for the Award, champion non-formal education, and lead initiatives on the issues that matter most to them and their peers.
Uniquely, IGE 2025 participants will also attend Forum, allowing them to apply their learning in real-time discussions and contribute directly to shaping the future of the Award. This year’s IGE will also mark the launch of our Global Youth Ambassador programme, offering continued training and opportunities for selected participants over the next three years. Many past IGE participants have gone on to become National Directors, Chairs, and key supporters of the Award, demonstrating the long-term impact of this invaluable experience.
Scroll down to view the programme.
"Attending IGE was a transformative experience that opened my eyes to the many opportunities for personal growth beyond completing the Award."
Seren Atis, Türkiye
Previous IGE Participant - Czech Republic, 2017
IGE Programme at a glance...
Click here to view the IGE Attendees Guide
More details
DAY 1
Sunday 16th November
09:00 - 10:15 - Welcome and Agenda
10:15 - 10:30 - Tea & coffee break
10:30 - 13:30 - Empowering Your Leading Self
An exploratory workshop facilitated by Heriot-Watt University faculty, helping participants discover and develop their personal impact statement
13:30 - 14:30 - Lunch
14:30 - 15:00 - The Award in context
Learning about how the Award works in different countries & contexts
15:00 - 17:30 - Implementing Change Part 1: How Change Happens
A practical session about the trajectory of change from idea to reality
17:30 - 18:15 - Small group debriefing sessions
Evening - Welcome dinner: BBQ by the pool
DAY 2
Monday 17th November
08:45 - 09:30 - Welcome and Networking with Nigerian Guest Participants
09:30 - 10:30 - Inspired to Lead
Panel discussion exploring the theme of leadership through personal stories
10:30 - 11:00 - Tea & coffee break
11:00 - 13:00 - Engaging an Audience Part 1: Strategic Messaging
An in-depth session on the building blocks of effective communications
13:00 - 14:00 - Lunch
14:00 - 16:00 - Engaging an Audience Part 2: Pitching
Learn and practice the key elements of delivering an engaging passion pitch
16:00 - 17:00 - Engaging an Audience Part 3: Digital Advocacy
A hands-on workshop turning strategic messaging and impactful speaking into engaging content
17:00 - 17:30 - Goodbyes with Nigerian Guest Participants
17:30 - 18:15 - Small group debriefing sessions
18:45 - 22:00 - Evening out at the Lagos Polo Club
DAY 3
Tuesday 18th November
09:00 - 10:00 - Introduction to Forum and the Association
Gain an in-depth understanding of the purpose, structure, and agenda of Forum, as well as where and how you will contribute
10:00 - 10:15 - Tea & coffee break
10:15 - 13:00 - Implementing Change (Part 2): ARTvocacy!
Dig deeper into personal motivation and leadership skills and bring your action plan to life
13:00 - 14:00 - Lunch
14:00 - 15:30 - Action Planning Part 1: Growing the Award
Learn how to put together a proposal for how to grow the Award and champion NFEL in your country context
15:30 - 15:45 - Break
15:45 - 17:30 - Action Planning Part 2: Posters and Elevator Pitches
Continung the previous session, practice refining and delivering your proposals
17:30 - 18:15 - Small group debriefing sessions
19:15 - 21:00 - IGE Closing Dinner
DAY 4
Wednesday 19th November
09:00 - 12:30 - Free morning
12:30 - 14:00 - Lunch
15:30 - 17:00 - FORUM: Grand Opening Ceremony
18:15 - 22:00 - Nigerian Cultural Evening and Gold Award Ceremony
