Youth Collective (2026 – 2027)
Applications now open!

Application

• CV: name, age, university or profession, experience 

• Statement of interest: Please outline your interest in the Trust and its work, and describe what you would bring to the collective, whether in terms of skills, perspectives, lived experience, or ways of working. We are keen to understand how you see yourself contributing to a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

• Project proposal: please propose one or more specific, implementable projects to engage youth. Proposals should outline the idea, target age group, format, timeline, and intended outcomes, and explain why the project is relevant to young people today. We are looking for ideas that balance strong conceptual thinking with practical planning, and that can be realised within our institutional and site contexts.

• Email the above to: opportunities@geoffreybawa.org with the subject line: First Name_Last Name_YC2026

Eligibility

• Aged between 19-25

• Residing in or around Colombo (or able to travel to Colombo on a regular basis)

• A student or professional with an interest or experience in the fields of art, architecture, design, ecology, or another related field.

• Strong verbal, written or visual communication skills

• Comfortable with public speaking 

• Ability to organise events and bring people together

What to Expect 

The Trust will host two exhibitions in 2026 at the Bawa Space on Horton Place. The work of the Youth Collective will engage with both these exhibitions. 

• Meetings (4-6): Participate in quarterly meetings (March 2026 - March 2027)

• Attend events: Attend 80% of the Trust’s public programming

• Organize an event (1): Organise at least one event or activity to engage youth

• Lead Tours (2): Lead two tours of the exhibitions (one for each exhibition in 2026/27) for friends/peers/colleagues

• Personal reflection pieces (2): Produce a youth-centric interpretation of each exhibition (open format: audio, text, visual etc.) that gives a personal reflection on the exhibition or part of the exhibition and why it is relevant to Sri Lankan youth

FAQ

Will I get paid for being a member of the Youth Collective?

Yes. There is a stipend, contingent on the delivery of the work and commitment outlined above (under What to Expect).

What type of project should I propose in my application?

This is totally up to you. We want your ideas of what would engage your friends and peers in the Trust’s work. Think about events, workshops, or programs that you have been to and really enjoyed. Just make sure it is something that you can implement.

Do I have to organise the project I proposed in my application?

Yes. If your application is accepted then you will be expected to organise the project that you are proposing. We can help with resources and implementation, but you need to lead the planning and coordination.

Can I submit more than one project proposal?

Yes. Feel free to submit as many as you wish, just make sure the ideas are practical and you will be able to implement them.

Do I need to be studying or working in the fields of art, architecture, design, or ecology? 

No. As long as you are interested in these areas and can show your enthusiasm and ideas, then we would love to have you. 

Where will the meetings and events take place?

Meetings and the majority of the events you need to attend will be held at the Bawa Space in Colombo 07. Some events may take place in other areas of the city. 

Do I have to attend all the meetings?

Yes. You are expected to commit to 4-6 meetings throughout the year.

Do I have to attend the events put on by the Trust?

Yes. You are expected to attend at least 80% of the events, and will need to coordinate with other members of the group to make sure the Collective is represented at all the events.