Young Leaders Program 2026 – Tallinn Session Brings Together Future Leaders from Sweden and Estonia
On 7–9 October 2026, the Sweden–Estonia Cooperation Fund brought together 20 emerging leaders from Sweden and Estonia for the Tallinn session of the Young Leaders Program (YLP) 2026. The three-day program provided an opportunity for participants from business, politics, academia, culture, civil society and the public sector to exchange experiences, develop their leadership skills and strengthen connections across the Baltic Sea.
Three Days of Learning, Dialogue and Networking
The Tallinn session featured a diverse program of discussions, workshops, meetings and study visits, exploring topics such as leadership, entrepreneurship, politics, security and defence, and the future of Swedish–Estonian cooperation.
Highlights included meetings with Estonian government representatives, discussions with prominent business and political leaders, a visit to the Estonian Parliament (Riigikogu), and a workshop focusing on the future of Swedish–Estonian relations. Participants also visited Viinistu Art Museum and Milrem Robotics, gaining insights into Estonia's cultural heritage, innovation and defence technology sector.
The program offered participants valuable opportunities to exchange perspectives, learn from experienced leaders and further develop the relationships established during the Swedish session earlier in the year.
Distinguished Speakers and Contributors
The Foundation would like to extend its sincere appreciation to all speakers and contributors who shared their knowledge, experiences and perspectives with the participants: Liina Vahtras, Hanah Lahe, Tarmo Ulla, Monika Kallas-Anton, Christo Ojamaa, Triin Agan, Gustaf Antell, Jaan Manitski, Michael Pärt, Kalev Stoicescu, Margus Tsahkna, Pierre Ozanne, Ambassador Margus Laidre and Ambassador Charlotte Wrangberg. Their contributions provided valuable insights into leadership, business, culture, international relations and the challenges and opportunities facing Sweden and Estonia.
Sweden–Estonia Cooperation Award 2026
The opening reception, hosted by Swedbank in Tallinn on 7 October, also included the presentation of the Sweden–Estonia Cooperation Award 2026.
This year's award was presented jointly to the Association of Swedish Language Teachers in Estonia and the founders of the Sweden–Estonia Skype Team, recognising their outstanding contributions to strengthening relations and cooperation between Sweden and Estonia.
The reception brought together YLP participants and alumni, representatives of the Swedish–Estonian community, the Foundation's partners and friends for an evening of networking and celebration.
Building a Stronger Swedish–Estonian Network
Established in 2022, the Young Leaders Program is organised by the Sweden–Estonia Cooperation Fund with the financial support of SEB and Swedbank. The program aims to develop the skills of emerging leaders, encourage cross-border dialogue and create lasting professional and personal relationships between Sweden and Estonia.
With the addition of the 2026 participants, the YLP network has grown to nearly 100 members, representing a broad range of sectors and professional backgrounds.
The Sweden–Estonia Cooperation Fund extends its warmest thanks to all participants, speakers, partners and contributors who helped make the Tallinn session a success. Together, we continue building bridges between the next generation of leaders in Sweden and Estonia.