Applications are now open for the One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026. Young leaders aged 18–35 can receive full funding to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa, including flights, accommodation, meals, and full summit access.
Overview
One Young World has officially opened applications for its prestigious Leading Scholarship 2026, offering exceptional young leaders from around the world the opportunity to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
The scholarship is designed to ensure that outstanding young changemakers from countries often underrepresented in global decision-making spaces can participate in one of the world’s most influential gatherings of young leaders.
Successful applicants will receive full funding to attend the summit, including international travel, accommodation, meals, and complete access to all summit activities.
Applications opened on 11 June 2026 and will remain open until 31 October 2026.
About the Leading Scholarship
The Leading Scholarship is One Young World’s flagship scholarship programme and one of the organization’s most competitive opportunities.
Each year, One Young World brings together thousands of young leaders from nearly every country worldwide to discuss solutions to global challenges, build international partnerships, and engage with world-renowned leaders, policymakers, business executives, and social innovators.
The scholarship aims to identify young people who are already creating positive impact within their communities and provide them with a global platform to amplify their work and connect with like-minded leaders.
The 2026 Summit will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3 to 6 November 2026.
Benefits
Successful scholars will receive a fully funded package that includes:
Summit Participation
- Full delegate access to the One Young World Summit 2026
- Participation in all official summit sessions and activities
- Access to global networking opportunities
Travel Support
- Round-trip international airfare to and from Cape Town, South Africa
- Travel support for the duration of the summit programme
Accommodation
- Hotel accommodation from 2 November to 6 November 2026
Meals
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the summit period
Long-Term Opportunities
In addition to attending the summit, scholars gain access to:
- A global network of over 20,000 One Young World Ambassadors
- Regional networking events
- Speaking opportunities
- Mentorship programmes
- Leadership development opportunities
- International collaborations
- Increased visibility for their projects and initiatives
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Leading Scholarship, applicants must:
Age Requirement
- Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of the summit
Applicants who will be under 18 years old during the summit are not eligible.
Leadership Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate:
- A strong commitment to creating positive change
- Active involvement in addressing local or global challenges
- Proven leadership ability
- A track record of impactful initiatives
- Innovative ideas and solutions that contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world
Who Should Apply?
The scholarship is particularly suitable for:
- Social entrepreneurs
- Community leaders
- Youth advocates
- Climate activists
- Human rights advocates
- Development professionals
- Education innovators
- Public health leaders
- Technology innovators
- Non-profit founders
- Young professionals driving social impact
One Young World especially encourages applications from countries and communities that are traditionally underrepresented in international forums.
Application Process
Step 1: Review Eligibility
Carefully review the scholarship requirements and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
Gather information about your leadership experience, achievements, and social impact initiatives.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Submit your application through the official One Young World scholarship portal.
Step 4: Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed based on leadership potential, demonstrated impact, commitment to positive change, and innovation.
Step 5: Scholarship Award
Successful candidates will receive notification and instructions regarding summit participation and travel arrangements.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or résumé
- Personal and contact information
- Details of leadership experience
- Information about social impact initiatives
- Responses to application questions
- Supporting evidence of achievements where applicable
Additional documents may be requested during the selection process.
Deadline
Application Opening Date
11 June 2026
Application Deadline
31 October 2026
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early applications are strongly encouraged.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026 |
| Organization | One Young World |
| Summit Location | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Summit Dates | 3–6 November 2026 |
| Scholarship Type | Fully Funded |
| Eligible Age | 18–35 Years |
| Coverage | Flights, Accommodation, Meals, Summit Access |
| Application Opens | 11 June 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 31 October 2026 |
| Eligible Countries | Worldwide |
| Number of Awards | Multiple |
Conclusion
The One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026 provides a life-changing opportunity for young leaders committed to creating positive social impact. By covering all major expenses and connecting participants with a global community of changemakers, the scholarship empowers emerging leaders to expand their influence, strengthen their networks, and accelerate their efforts to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Young leaders with a proven record of impact and a passion for driving meaningful change are encouraged to apply before the 31 October 2026 deadline.
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