Apply for QECT’s 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026
To mark what would have been Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday in April 2026, the Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT) is launching the 100 Young Leaders Awards—a landmark initiative recognizing 100 exceptional young changemakers from across the Commonwealth. This prestigious award aims to elevate their profiles and empower them to amplify their impact in sectors like education and employability, environment, food and agriculture, health, and inclusion.(Queens Commonwealth Trust)
Eligibility: Are You a Fit?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Between 18 and 35 at the time of application (born between April 1990 and April 2008)
- Leadership Role: Serve as founder, co-founder, or hold a key leadership position in a social impact initiative
- Location: Be a citizen or permanent resident of one of the 56 Commonwealth countries
- Impact: Demonstrate measurable community or global impact for a minimum of 12 months
- Ethical Standing: Your initiative must operate legally and transparently, aligned with QECT’s values
- Language: Your application must be submitted in English
Areas of Focus
The awards celebrate young leaders working to drive change in the following key areas:
- Education and Employability
- Environment
- Food & Agriculture
- Health
- Inclusion
What Winners Will Receive
Awardees will be offered:
- Official Recognition: Honored at a dedicated awards ceremony
- Microgrant Opportunity: Apply for funding to scale your project or organization
- Capacity Building: Access tailored mentorship and leadership development support
- Global Visibility: Gain media coverage and international recognition
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with funders, partners, and experts through virtual and/or in-person events
Timeline
- Deadline for Applications: Wednesday, 8 October 2025
Why You Should Apply
- Boost Your Influence: Elevate your initiative with global recognition.
- Grow Your Capabilities: Receive mentorship and strategic support tailored to your needs.
- Expand Your Reach: Tap into powerful networks—both virtual and on the ground.
- Amplify Impact: Microgrant support could be the catalyst your project needs.
Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|
| Program Name | QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026 |
| Deadline | October 8, 2025 |
| Eligibility | Age 18–35; social initiative leader; Commonwealth residence |
| Focus Areas | Education, Environment, Agriculture, Health, Inclusion |
| Benefits | Recognition, mentorship, microgrant, global visibility |
| Language of Application | English |
Are you a young changemaker from the Commonwealth driving real impact? Now’s your chance to shine. Submit your application for the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026 by October 8, 2025, and let your story of leadership inspire the world.