Lead the Next
Generation.
Learn how to stand out in a competitive landscape by reading our article on identifying your unique value proposition as a young leader How to Identify Your Unique Value Proposition as a Young Leader. The International Conference brought together undergraduate students and business executives for three days of keynotes, seminars, and competition in New York City.
Learn More2018 International Conference
The International Conference was an all-expenses-paid opportunity that connected undergraduate students around the world with business executives. Discover how high-stakes decision-making unfolds in real-time. What Executive Seminars Reveal About Decision-Making Under Pressure The event brought together the leaders of today with the leaders of tomorrow.
The 2018 theme, "the future of work," examined disruptions in the workforce and what they mean for the next generation of professionals. Learn how to transform your IC18 experience into compelling stories that impress recruiters—read our guide: Turn Conference Experience Into Strong Interview Evidence Held in New York City, the conference placed students at the center of the business world.
Our Programs
The conference offered multiple ways for students to engage with business leaders and peers.
Keynotes
Hear from distinguished business leaders who shared their perspectives on leadership and the changing world of work.
Executive Seminars
Small-group sessions pairing 5–7 students with one executive in intimate settings, both on-site and off-site.
Writing Competition
A competitive opportunity for attendees to articulate their ideas on the future of work and gain recognition.
Impact Challenge
A hands-on challenge designed to push students to think creatively about real-world business problems.
Past Keynote Speakers
Previous conferences featured leaders from across industries.
Steve Forbes
Chairman & Editor-in-Chief, Forbes Media
Wendy Kopp
Founder, Teach for America
Stephen Schwarzman
CEO, Blackstone
Muhtar Kent
CEO, Coca-Cola
The application period for the 2018 International Conference closed prior to the event, which took place November 18–20, 2018 in New York City.
The International Conference was designed as a bridge between generations, bringing together ambitious undergraduate students and seasoned business executives in the heart of New York City. Over the course of three days, attendees immersed themselves in keynotes, seminars, and a competitive program that challenged them to think boldly about their professional futures. The all-expenses-paid nature of the event ensured that promising young leaders from around the world could participate regardless of their financial circumstances, removing barriers and opening doors. Every session was crafted to spark meaningful dialogue, with opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside some of the most influential voices in business today.
The 2018 theme, "the future of work," invited attendees to examine the disruptions reshaping the modern workforce and to consider what those shifts mean for the next generation of professionals. From automation and artificial intelligence to evolving workplace cultures, the programming encouraged participants to ask hard questions and imagine new possibilities. The conference paired high-level executive insights with intimate settings where students could interact directly with founders, CEOs, and industry leaders. These candid exchanges offered a rare glimpse into the minds of those shaping global commerce, giving attendees practical wisdom they could carry into their own careers and ventures.
Beyond the mainstage moments, the conference featured an editorial writing challenge that allowed students to showcase their voices on a national platform. Participants submitted original pieces based on timely themes, with the strongest work earning publication and recognition. This competition underscored the conference's broader commitment to developing well-rounded leaders who can communicate with clarity and conviction. Whether through the writing challenge, the business competition, or the many networking opportunities woven throughout the schedule, every element of the experience was designed to equip attendees with the confidence, connections, and insight needed to lead the next generation of change.