Apply to the One Young World Summit Leading Scholarship 2026 in Cape Town

If you are a young leader aged 18–35 addressing social, environmental, or community challenges, consider the One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026. This scholarship supports exceptional individuals to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3–6 November 2026. Applications opened on 11 June 2026 and will close on 31 October 2026, but selections are made on a rolling basis, so early application is advised.

Application Deadline

• 31 October 2026 (applications reviewed and selected on a rolling basis, June–October 2026).

Tell Me About The Scholarship

The Leading Scholarship is One Young World’s flagship programme, ensuring that remarkable young leaders from every country can attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa (3–6 November 2026). It is designed to support outstanding leaders from countries often under‑represented at global forums, giving them access to a powerful international platform.

Which Fields are Eligible

Applicants must demonstrate leadership in addressing:

• Sustainability
• Global Issues
• Community Development
• Innovative Change

Type

• Leadership Scholarship | Global Summit | South Africa

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:

• Be aged 18–35 at the time of the Summit.
• Show commitment to delivering positive change.
• Be addressing key local and/or global issues.
• Have a track record of impactful and innovative ideas.
• ⚠️ Applicants under 18 at the time of the Summit are not eligible.

How Are Scholars Selected

• Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
• Priority given to:
  • Applicants from under‑represented countries.
  • First‑time Summit attendees (not existing Ambassadors).
• Selected candidates notified via email between June–October 2026.

Which Countries are Eligible

• Global – applicants from almost every country worldwide.

Where Will the Scholarship Be Taken

• One Young World Summit 2026, Cape Town, South Africa.

How Many Scholars

• Not specified; competitive selection across 196 countries.

What is the Benefit of the Scholarship

• Full delegate access to the One Young World Summit 2026.
• Catering (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
• Access to the Global Leadership Programme and Action Accelerator.
• Membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community (regional events, mentoring, speaking opportunities).
• Case‑by‑case provision of transport and accommodation.
• Opportunity to wave your country’s flag at the Opening Ceremony.
• Visibility for your work with global leaders and experts.

How Long Will the Scholarship Last

• Covers the Summit period (3–6 November 2026), with ongoing Ambassador opportunities afterward.

Required Documents

• Online application form.
• Evidence of leadership and impact.
• Personal statement outlining your work and vision.

How to Apply

1. Complete the online application form via One Young World.
2. Submit before 31 October 2026.
3. Await rolling selection notifications (June–October 2026).

🌐 Visit the application webpage for details

Applicants must:

• Be aged 18–35 at the time of the Summit.
• Show commitment to delivering positive change.
• Be addressing key local and/or global issues.
• Have a track record of impactful and innovative ideas.
• ⚠️ Applicants under 18 at the time of the Summit are not eligible.

1. Complete the online application form via One Young World.
2. Submit before 31 October 2026.
3. Await rolling selection notifications (June–October 2026).

🌐 Visit the application webpage for details