Applications are now open for the One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026, one of the flagship scholarship programs offered by One Young World. The scholarship aims to support exceptional young leaders from countries that are often underrepresented in global decision-making spaces, enabling them to participate in the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. The program brings together young changemakers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, activists, and professionals from around the world to discuss solutions to the most pressing global challenges.

Scholarship Overview

• Host Organization: One Young World
• Summit Location: Cape Town
• Host Country: South Africa
• Program Type: Leadership Summit
• Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
• Summit Dates: 3–6 November 2026
• Application Deadline: 31 October 2026
• Eligible Applicants: Young leaders from all countries worldwide

About the Leading Scholarship

The Leading Scholarship is designed to ensure that outstanding young leaders from around the world can access the One Young World Summit regardless of their financial circumstances. The program recognizes individuals who have demonstrated leadership, innovation, and a commitment to creating positive social impact within their communities. Priority is given to applicants from countries that have historically been underrepresented at international forums and to first-time Summit attendees

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive:

• Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026
• Hotel accommodation from 2–6 November 2026
• Meals throughout the Summit period
• Round-trip travel expenses to and from Cape Town
• Opportunity to join a global network of more than 20,000 young leaders from 190+ countries
• Access to future networking events, mentoring opportunities, and ambassador programs
• Global visibility for their work and impact initiatives
• Lifelong membership in the One Young World community upon participation

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of the Summit
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to creating positive change
• Be actively addressing local or global challenges through their work
• Have a proven record of leadership and impact
• Show innovative approaches to solving social, environmental, economic, or community challenges
• Be available to attend the Summit in Cape Town, South Africa in November 2026

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Leadership experience
• Demonstrated social impact
• Innovation and creativity
• Potential for future influence
• Commitment to community development and global progress

Important Notes

• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
• Successful candidates will be notified between June and October 2026.
• Priority will be given to first-time attendees of the One Young World Summit.
• Visa fees and any related visa application expenses are the responsibility of selected participants.

Why Apply?

The One Young World Summit is widely recognized as one of the world’s leading gatherings of young leaders. Participants gain access to influential global networks, mentorship opportunities, leadership development experiences, and collaboration opportunities with changemakers from across sectors and regions. The scholarship provides a unique platform to amplify your impact and connect with leaders who are shaping the future.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit their applications through the official One Young World scholarship portal before the deadline. Applications are accepted online and reviewed on a rolling basis.