ACELS 14 Delegate FAQ

What is the Australia-China Emerging Leaders Summit (ACELS)?

ACELS is the Australia-China Youth Association’s (ACYA) signature event, and a key platform to unite and enrich a new generation of Australia-China literate leaders. Over four days, delegates will be exposed to a wide range of issues in the Australia-China space, engaging with industry leaders and experienced professionals at the forefront of their fields.

ACELS 14, held online over two consecutive weekends – the weekends of the 15th-16th and 22nd-23rd January 2022 – will bring together delegates from Australia and China to discuss the multifaceted bilateral relationship. Through presentations, workshops, and seminars, participants will deepen their understanding of the China-Australia relationship, and partake in cross-cultural dialogue. Covid permitting, there will also be offline events and networking opportunities in both Australia and China during the weeks of the Summit.

Why should I attend the Summit?

Delegates will have the opportunity to connect and build friendships with young professionals, industry leaders and fellow delegates through networking, social, and cultural events. They will also be exposed to the most topical, pressing, and innovative topics in the Australia-China space.

What is the application process?

To apply for ACELS 14 as a delegate, please apply here.

Who is eligible to apply?

Anyone who is:

• Between the ages of 18 and 30 (inclusive);
• Available on the 15th, 16th, 22nd and 23rd of January 2022;
• Able to access the internet and a computer with a working webcam and microphone for the entire duration of ACELS;
• Able to demonstrate a keen interest in the relationship between Australia and China.

Please note previous involvement with ACYA is NOT a prerequisite to attend ACELS 14.

How will delegates be selected?

In our selection process, we aim to recruit a diverse group of delegates from a range of disciplines at the forefront of the Australia-China space. We are looking for delegates who are interested in the Australia-China relationship and emulate the Summit’s theme and vision.

When will I be notified of the application outcome?

Applicants will be notified by the third or fourth week of December 2021 on the outcome of their application.

I have been waitlisted for the Summit. What happens now?

After the registration deadline has passed for accepted delegates, we will notify waitlisted delegates if there are still positions available.

Do I need to speak English to attend?

As ACELS will be primarily conducted in English, delegates should possess a certain level of listening and speaking skills in English in order to participate fully in the Summit.

Do I need to speak Chinese to attend?

ACELS will be held predominantly in English, and whilst previous Chinese language experience is an asset, it is not a requirement for attendance.

How much does ACELS cost?

The ACELS 14 Delegate Fee will be $30.

What will my delegate fee be used for?

ACYA is a not-for-profit organisation, so the entirety of your Delegate Fee will go towards ACELS resources. These may include printing and postage costs for delegate packs, as well as online subscription and technology costs for the duration of the Summit.

Are there scholarships available?

Yes, there are a few equity scholarships available to attend ACELS 14. If you wish to apply for a scholarship, please send an email to us at delegates_acels@acya.org.au, with:

• a paragraph (no more than 200 words) detailing why you would like to apply for the equity scholarship and outlining your current disadvantage/hardship;
• and any relevant supporting documentation.

What will the ACELS 14 program include?

As an online summit, ACELS 14 will feature an intensive four-day program of online workshops, panel discussions, speaker events and networking. These sessions will focus on different areas, such as:

• Healthcare
• Environment & Sustainability
• Tourism
• Infrastructure & Development
• Technology
• Education
• Entrepreneurship
• Arts & Culture
• Economics & Trade

A more detailed schedule is currently being finalised and will be sent to successful delegates as part of the Delegate Pack. In addition to the four days of online content, Covid permitting, there will also be offline events and networking opportunities in both Australia and China during the weeks of the Summit.

Do I need to prepare for the Summit?

Although not required, we recommend that you do some personal research on some topical themes in the Australia-China space. We will also provide resources to delegates in the lead up to the Summit, as well as information on the speakers and presenters, which will help you to start thinking about key questions and issues.

Is there a Summit schedule available?

The ACELS 14 Project Team is in the process of finalising a Summit Schedule. This will be provided if you are accepted as a delegate to attend the Summit.

Is attendance compulsory for all Summit events?

You must attend ALL online workshops, seminars and social events. As for offline events, while attendance is strongly encouraged, it is not compulsory.

What should I wear to ACELS?

Delegates are required to wear business casual during seminars, panels, workshops, and networking events.

Where can I find the Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Welfare Policy for the Summit?

The ACELS Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, and Welfare Policy can be accessed by emailing us at delegates_acels@acya.org.au.

What if I have other questions?

If you have any other questions, please feel free to get in touch with us at delegates_acels@acya.org.au.