Youth Water Program
Turning youth potential into real-world impact for Abu Dhabi's water sector
A new platform for the next generation of water-sector leaders, connecting high-potential university students and early-career graduates with the real challenges, experts, data and operating environments shaping Abu Dhabi's water future.
From learning about the sector to helping shape it
Abu Dhabi already brings together world-class water infrastructure, leading universities and ambitious sector priorities. The Young Leaders Program will create a structured pathway for emerging talent to work alongside operators and industry experts on priority challenges — translating fresh thinking into practical, testable ideas while building the sector's future talent pipeline.
What participants can expect
Real Challenges
Work in small teams on live water-sector challenges defined with Abu Dhabi operators and partners.
Direct Access
Learn from technical mentors, industry leaders and academic experts, with access to relevant data and site visits.
Visible Impact
Build and present a solution with a clear route toward testing, internship exposure and a final showcase at ADWPW.
Who we are looking for
10–12 high-potential participants, typically aged 20–25, from penultimate-year university study through two years after graduation. The program is designed for candidates who combine strong academic foundations with curiosity, initiative and a genuine interest in solving complex water and sustainability challenges.
From application to impact
A selective pathway designed to identify strong talent, match participants to the right challenge and support them through delivery.
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01
Apply
Submit an online application including academic background, CV / experience, areas of interest and a short motivation or essay response.
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02
Shortlist
Applications are screened for eligibility and overall quality, with the strongest candidates moving forward.
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03
Select
Shortlisted candidates may complete an interview or case-style discussion to assess motivation, problem solving, communication and fit.
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04
Match
Selected participants are grouped into teams and matched to operator challenges based on their profile, interests and challenge needs.
What will matter in selection
The program will look beyond a single metric. Selection is expected to balance academic strength with motivation, relevant experience and the ability to contribute to a high-performing team.
Academics
GPA and academic trajectory
Experience
CV, projects, work or extracurricular exposure
Motivation
Essay / short response and interest in the sector
Potential
Interview, problem solving, communication and team fit
Why join?
- Work on a challenge that matters to Abu Dhabi's water future.
- Gain exposure to operators, researchers, technical partners and sector leaders.
- Build practical skills in problem solving, teamwork, pitching and implementation.
- Access potential internship and career opportunities with participating partners.