Scholarship Overview
Overview
The Nexus Youth Exchange 2026 is a fully funded international program bringing together young leaders, students, entrepreneurs, and changemakers from around the world. Held in Madrid, Spain, this 4-day experience offers participants from Zimbabwe and across Africa the opportunity to develop leadership skills, build global networks, and engage with critical themes including sustainable development, innovation, and public policy.
Organized by the Nexus Public Policy Institute, the program runs from 06–09 November 2026. Importantly, applicants do not need IELTS or TOEFL scores, removing a common barrier for African applicants.
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Program Details
- Host Country: Spain
- Location: Madrid
- Program Dates: 06–09 November 2026
- Duration: 4 Days
- Organizer: Nexus Public Policy Institute
- Funding Type: Fully Funded, Partially Funded, and Self-Funded options
- Application Deadline: 3 October 2026
Funding Categories
Fully Funded
Selected participants receive comprehensive support including:
- Round-trip airfare
- Luxury accommodation in a 4 or 5-star hotel
- Accommodation confirmation letter for visa purposes
- Daily meals
- Official visa invitation letter
- Visa support and guidance
- Airport transfers
- Full access to all program sessions and activities
- Official delegate kit and merchandise
- Opportunity to speak or present during the program
- Opportunity to represent your country
- Graduation certificate
- Guided city experience in Madrid
- Lifetime access to the Nexus Alumni Network
Partially Funded
Participants receive all benefits except round-trip airfare. Accommodation, meals, airport transfers, visa support, networking opportunities, and certificates are included.
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Self-Funded Category
Participants can secure a guaranteed spot without going through the selection process and enjoy full access to all program activities and benefits.
Premium Access Pass
This option offers guaranteed participation, luxury accommodation, meals, visa support, networking opportunities, graduation certificate, and access to the Nexus Alumni Network.
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Group Booking
Universities, NGOs, organizations, and groups of five or more participants can apply together and receive special discounts.
Visa Support
Applicants needing visa support can obtain:
- Signed and stamped invitation letter
- Participation confirmation
- Visa support documents
- Schengen visa application guidance
This is particularly valuable for Zimbabwean and SADC region applicants who require Schengen visas for Spain.
Program Themes
The Nexus Youth Exchange 2026 focuses on:
- Youth Leadership and Civic Engagement
- Global Citizenship
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Education and Future Skills
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Cross-Cultural Understanding
- International Cooperation
- Public Policy and Governance
- Digital Transformation
- Community Impact and Social Innovation
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Nexus Youth Exchange 2026, applicants must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be from any country worldwide (including all African nations)
- Demonstrate interest in leadership and global engagement
- Have a passion for cultural exchange and international collaboration
- Be willing to actively participate in program activities
- Come from any academic or professional background
No IELTS Required: Applicants do not need IELTS or TOEFL scores to apply.
Why Apply
The Nexus Youth Exchange 2026 offers participants the chance to:
- Travel to Spain and experience Madrid’s rich culture
- Build an international network of young leaders
- Develop leadership and communication skills
- Learn from experts and global changemakers
- Explore innovation, entrepreneurship, and public policy
- Engage with participants from diverse cultural backgrounds
- Become part of a global alumni community
Application Process
To apply for the Nexus Youth Exchange 2026:
- Visit the official application portal
- Complete the online application form
- Select your preferred participation category (Fully Funded, Partially Funded, Self-Funded, or Premium Access Pass)
- Pay the application fee (charged by Nexus)
- Submit the required information
- Wait for the selection results
Tips for Zimbabwe and SADC Applicants
Given the competitive nature of fully funded spots, Zimbabwean and regional applicants should:
- Highlight specific leadership experiences in community organizations, student government, or social enterprises
- Demonstrate clear commitment to SDGs relevant to Southern Africa (climate resilience, education access, youth unemployment)
- Apply early to allow time for visa processing if selected
- Consider group applications through universities or youth organizations to access discounts
- Prepare a strong personal statement emphasizing cross-cultural collaboration experience
