The One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026 is the flagship program of One Young World, created to make sure that talented young leaders from every corner of the globe can take part in the One Young World Summit 2026, hosted this year in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3–6 November. It is built for people who are already driving real change toward a more sustainable world.
For African applicants, the timing and location are especially meaningful. The Summit is on the continent, and the scholarship gives priority to leaders from countries that have been under-represented at past Summits. If you are doing impactful work on sustainability, community development, or innovation, this is a chance to share it on a global stage.
The award covers attendance and the costs around it, while putting you inside a network of more than 20,000 collaborators, world leaders, and experts.
Scholarship benefits
- Full delegate access to the One Young World Summit
- Hotel accommodation from 2–6 November 2026
- Meals included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Travel costs covered, including a round-trip flight from the same airport
- Access to a global network of 20,000+ collaborators
- Opportunities for speaking events, mentoring, and regional networking
- Visibility for your work alongside world leaders and experts
- Ongoing engagement through the Ambassador Community after the Summit
Eligibility checklist
✔ You are aged 18–35 at the time of the Summit (applicants under 18 are not eligible)
✔ You can show evidenced commitment to delivering positive change
✔ Your work addresses local and/or global issues
✔ You have a track record of impactful and innovative ideas
✔ Your work falls within sustainability, global issues, community development, or leadership and innovation
✔ Applicants from all countries worldwide may apply, with priority to less-represented countries and first-time attendees (not existing Ambassadors)
Application tips for African students
- Apply early. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so submitting well before 31 October 2026 can work in your favour rather than waiting until the final day.
- Lead with evidence. Don’t just describe your passion show measurable impact: people reached, projects delivered, partnerships built. Concrete numbers stand out.
- Highlight your country’s representation. Since priority goes to under-represented countries and first-time attendees, make clear if you fall into these groups.
- Write a focused motivation. Explain why the Summit matters for your work and what you intend to do with the network and platform afterward.
- Frame your work around the eligible themes such as sustainability, community development, leadership, and innovation so reviewers can place your impact quickly.
- Prepare for travel logistics in advance. Even though flights are covered, start thinking early about your passport validity and any visa requirements for entering South Africa.
How to apply
Applications are made online through One Young World’s portal. Complete the application form, provide details of your leadership work, impact, and motivation, and submit before the deadline of 31 October 2026. Selected candidates are notified between June and October 2026. You can apply through the official scholarship page here: One Young World Leading Scholarship 2026 application form.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply for the Leading Scholarship?
Young leaders aged 18–35 at the time of the Summit, from any country, who can demonstrate a track record of impactful, innovative work addressing local and/or global issues. Applicants under 18 are not eligible.
What does the scholarship cover?
It provides full delegate access to the Summit, hotel accommodation (2–6 November 2026), meals, and round-trip travel costs, plus access to the global Ambassador network.
Where and when is the Summit held?
The One Young World Summit 2026 takes place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3–6 November 2026.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 31 October 2026, but because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, applying early is recommended.
How are applicants selected?
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority given to countries less represented at past Summits and to first-time attendees who are not existing Ambassadors. Selected candidates are notified between June and October 2026.