MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 — One-Year Leadership Program for Global Change-Makers

If you’re a young person between 18 and 26 years old with a passion for making a difference in your community — particularly in the areas of education, health, or economic security — the MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 offers a standout opportunity.

Program Overview

This fellowship is a year-long leadership development experience that brings together young leaders from around the world. The process includes:

• A virtual Community Needs Assessment phase where you map and analyse a challenge in your local community.
• A 10-day in-person training segment with vision-planning, workshops and global peer engagement.
• A longer virtual project implementation phase (about 10 months) where you execute a community-based project with mentorship from alumni and global peers.

Eligibility & Key Requirements

To apply you must:

• Be aged 18-26 at the start of the program.
• Be fluent in written and spoken English.
• Demonstrate a commitment to your community, and identify a meaningful issue in your local context under the themes of education, health or economic security.
• Have reliable internet access and be able to communicate virtually for the year-long program.

Benefits & What’s Covered

While details for 2026 are to be confirmed, past editions of the fellowship have been fully funded, covering:

• International economy flights (for international participants) or domestic economy flights (for U.S. participants).
• Housing during the in-person segment (example: in previous years from 14-24 July).
• Meals during the in-person training.

Please note: Some costs like passport or visa fees or in-country travel may not be covered.

Why You Should Consider It

• You’ll join a global network of young leaders and mentors committed to positive change.
• You’ll gain leadership, planning and project-management experience with support over the full year.
• Your community project may create real impact in your region, bridging local problems with global leadership.
• The blend of virtual and in-person experiences gives you flexibility and global exposure.

If you’re ready to lead, to turn your ideas into action, and to connect with a worldwide cohort of change-makers — the MCW Global Young Leaders Fellowship 2026 could be your gateway. Be prepared and ready to submit a strong application when the call opens.