Scholarship Overview
What Is the One Young World Leading Scholarship?
The One Young World Leading Scholarship is the flagship scholarship program of One Young World, designed to identify and support outstanding young leaders from countries that are often under-represented at global forums and decision-making spaces. The scholarship brings exceptional young people to the annual One Young World Summit, held in 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa from 3–6 November.
For African applicants, particularly those from Zimbabwe and the SADC region, this represents a significant opportunity to join a global network of changemakers without bearing the full cost of attendance. The scholarship is awarded purely on merit, based on proven leadership and demonstrated ability to create change in your home country.
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What the Scholarship Covers
Selected scholars receive comprehensive support that includes:
- Full delegate access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa
- Catering throughout the event: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Access to the One Young World Global Leadership Programme and Action Accelerator
- Membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community, including exclusive regional events and opportunities
Transport and accommodation are considered on a case-by-case basis for each scholar. This means some applicants may receive additional support while others may need to self-fund travel and lodging.
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Important Cost Note for African Applicants
If you require a visa to enter South Africa, you must pay the visa fee yourself. This includes all associated costs such as travel to and from the visa application centre. One Young World does not cover these expenses, so budget accordingly when planning your application.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Requirements
You are eligible for the Leading Scholarship if you meet all of the following criteria:
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- Aged between 18 and 35 at the time of the Summit (November 2026)
- Demonstrated commitment to delivering positive change in your community or country
- Currently addressing key local and/or global issues through your work
- Proven track record of generating impactful and innovative ideas
Applicants who will be under 18 at the time of the Summit are not eligible. There is no specific academic requirement or field of study restriction—this scholarship values demonstrated leadership and impact over formal qualifications.
Priority Considerations
One Young World gives priority to:
- Applicants from countries that have been less represented at previous One Young World Summits
- First-time Summit attendees (not existing One Young World Ambassadors)
This prioritization benefits many African nations, including Zimbabwe and other SADC countries that may have had limited representation at past events.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications for the Leading Scholarship 2026 are reviewed on a rolling basis. This means there is no fixed deadline, but early application is strongly advised as spaces fill continuously.
Selection Timeline
- Applications reviewed: On a rolling basis throughout 2026
- Scholars selected: On a rolling basis
- Notification emails sent: Between June and October 2026
Due to the high volume of applications, One Young World does not respond to individual emails enquiring about application outcomes. Feedback is not provided to unsuccessful candidates.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the official One Young World website. The process typically involves:
- Creating an account on the One Young World platform
- Completing the Leading Scholarship application form
- Providing evidence of your leadership impact and commitment to change
- Demonstrating how you address local or global issues through your work
By applying for this scholarship, you may also be considered for other opportunities offered by One Young World or its partners.
What Scholars Gain: Long-Term Benefits
Beyond the Summit itself, Leading Scholarship recipients join a powerful global network:
- Access to over 20,000 potential collaborators from 196 countries
- Exclusive Ambassador opportunities including speaking events, regional networking, and mentoring sessions
- The chance to represent your country at the Opening Ceremony flag-waving
- Greater visibility for your work among world-renowned experts and leaders
For Zimbabwean and SADC applicants, this network can be transformative for scaling local initiatives, accessing funding opportunities, and building international partnerships.
Application Tips for African Applicants
Given the competitive nature of this scholarship and the rolling selection process:
- Apply as early as possible in 2026
- Clearly quantify your impact with specific examples and outcomes
- Demonstrate innovation in your approach to solving problems
- Highlight any work that addresses issues relevant to your community or country
- Emphasize if you are a first-time applicant from a less represented country
Prepare your visa documentation early if selected, as South African visa processing can take time and all costs are your responsibility.
