About the Program
The IAK Young Scholar Program supports talented high school and university students who are passionate about culture, philosophy, and East–West dialogue. We provide opportunities for students to engage in cultural activities worldwide, take part in international forums, and connect with business leaders and mentors.
IAK Young Scholars are guided to grow as inclusive, compassionate, and outstanding international talents, ready to shape a better future.
Meet the Young Scholars
University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons
Richard S.
Event & Digital Support
Richard S. is a young entrepreneur, founder of Paradies Rheintal GmbH, and a student of Digital Business Management. Having grown up in China, Germany, and Switzerland, and traveled widely across the world, he has developed a truly international perspective and a strong appreciation for cultural diversity.
He speaks German, English, and Chinese fluently, with additional proficiency in French. Richard combines his entrepreneurial drive, global upbringing, and academic focus in digital business to foster innovation and contribute to international exchange as part of the IAK Young Scholar Program.
University of Liechtenstein
Hanna F.
Research & Dialogue
Hanna Fischer is a B.Sc. Business Administration student at the University of Liechtenstein. Having grown up in Switzerland and studied abroad in the UK, she has been immersed in international environments from an early age. This background, together with her international family roots, has shaped her open mindset and deep appreciation for cultural diversity.
She speaks German, English, and Bulgarian fluently, with additional proficiency in French, Spanish, and several Slavic languages. Hanna combines her strong communication skills, passion for cultural exchange, and academic foundation in business to contribute meaningfully to the IAK Young Scholar Program.
SAE Institute Vienna
Cass S.
Audio Engineering & Music
Cass S. is an Audio Engineering student at SAE Institute Vienna. Having grown up in the UK before moving to Switzerland and now studying in Austria, Cass has experienced different cultural environments through both life and travel, including a cultural journey to China. These experiences have shaped an international perspective and a strong appreciation for cultural diversity.
Cass combines technical knowledge in audio engineering, a passion for music, and an open-minded approach to different cultures. These interests and experiences bring a creative and cross-cultural perspective to the IAK Young Scholar Program.
Growing with IAK
The young people presented here began learning and participating in IAK activities during their high school years and have continued their journey into university. Through cultural events, international forums, educational projects, and study journeys, they have grown alongside IAK—developing different areas of expertise upon a shared cultural foundation.
What connects them is not a single path, but a lasting commitment to learning, practice, and becoming who they are.
Who Can Apply
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High school students (age 15–18)
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University students (undergraduate level)
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Strong interest in culture, philosophy, wellness, or international exchange
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Open-minded and motivated to contribute to cross-cultural understanding
Benefits for Young Scholars
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Participate in IAK cultural forums and events
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Present ideas and projects at international gatherings
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Connect with mentors and experts in business, philosophy, culture, and wellness
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Join international study trips (with parental approval if under 18)
IAK Youth Program
Bridging Generations, Cultures, and Ideas
Youth Volunteers – Learning through Service
Students support IAK’s cultural events, forums, and activities. They begin as Youth Contributors, grow into Student Partners, and may advance to Youth Ambassadors who represent IAK as cultural bridge-builders. Volunteers gain leadership experience and receive certificates of recognition.
Young Scholars – Learning through Inquiry
The Young Scholars Program nurtures curiosity and creativity. Students start as Young Learners, some advance as Young Scholars contributing essays and projects, and selected Youth Fellows may present at IAK forums or join exchange initiatives. Scholars may publish their work and receive recommendation letters.
Youth Opportunities
Through service and scholarship, students gain event experience, mentorship, recognition, and a global community dedicated to cultural dialogue. At IAK, young people are not only helping hands — they are future partners and bridge-builders across cultures.