FAQ

The International Strategy Forum (ISF) supports the next generation of problem solvers with extraordinary potential in geopolitics, innovation, and public leadership. Chaired by Fareed Zakaria and Jared Cohen and supported administratively by the Special Competitive Studies Project, ISF seeks out non-traditional talent across boardrooms, newsrooms, laboratories, policy-making councils, foundations, and beyond. Through convenings, mentorship, and more, ISF equips rising leaders in technology and international affairs with knowledge, network, and resources to tackle hard global problems.

The benefits of becoming an ISF Fellow take many forms. The program is personalized and tailored to Fellows’ needs as they grow during their fellowship year and beyond. All ISF Fellows receive access to the following benefits: 

Convenings: Fellows attend two convenings during their fellowship year.

1. ISF Global Summit: Each February, Fellows from all across the world participate in a global convening, commencing the yearlong program.

2. ISF Thematic Convenings: Fellows reconvene within thematic clusters during the second half of their fellowship to discuss international affairs in smaller settings.

Network Events: Fellows are invited to virtual and in-person events hosted by ISF and partner organizations, including briefings with subject-matter experts, Fellow-led discussions, and leadership and upskilling courses. 

Mentorship: Fellows have access to ISF Advisors and alumni of the program for mentorship and collaboration.

Fellows attend two convenings (ISF Global and ISF Thematic) during their fellowship year. Each convening is 3 – 4 days in duration. 

Outside of the convenings, Fellows have the flexibility to engage as much as possible with program offerings. On average, Fellows can expect to commit up to 4 hours per month with ISF.

ISF is a global network. Similar networks tend to be siloed by region. ISF is a worldwide community focused on tackling shared global challenges. 

ISF focuses on technology and geopolitics. Foreign policy programs often fail to recognize the outsized impact technology will play on the global stage. ISF brings together international strategists with experts in hard sciences and other professions to break down barriers between fields.

Global and thematic convenings are in person, pending guidance from public health officials. During the year of fellowship, ISF offers in-person, virtual, and hybrid events.

The application is only available in English. All programming is in English.

You are eligible if you meet the following criteria:

1. Between the ages of 25 and 35

2. Citizen, dual citizen, or resident from a country in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and/or the Middle East

3. Demonstrated expertise and/or strong interest in technology and/or global affairs

1. Written Application

2. Panel Interview

3. Selection

Applications are shared by ISF Advisors, alumni, and partner organizations.

ISF believes that young individuals building their careers have unique perspectives that are often overlooked on the world stage. ISF is dedicated to investing in these ideas and talents before they have been spotted by others, so long as they hold outsized promise for the future of technology and international affairs.