Access is often the real barrier — not talent.
For many young leaders, the problem is never ideas or impact. It’s exposure, funding, and being in the right rooms. That is exactly what One Young World scholarships solve.
Every year, thousands of young changemakers dream of standing on the global stage but with a growing portfolio of fully funded scholarships, that dream is now within reach for extraordinary individuals working on the world’s most urgent challenges. These programmes don’t just fund attendance at a global summit. They position you inside a network that can accelerate your work, open funding doors, and connect you to decision-makers worldwide.
Are you an extraordinary young leader driving change in your community? Do you have a proven track record of social impact? Your chance to join the world’s most influential network of young changemakers is here
These scholarships remove financial barriers, allowing the world’s most impactful young leaders to focus entirely on what matters most: amplifying their impact and creating lasting global change. In this comprehensive guide, we break down what One Young World is, the incredible benefits of being a scholar, and a detailed look at the 2026 scholarship opportunities.
What is One Young World? Championing Access and Representation
Founded in 2009, One Young World is the global leadership organisation and a community for young leaders. It exists to develop and empower the next generation of ethical leaders to build a fair and sustainable future for all.
The Annual One Young World Summit
The centerpiece of the organisation is the annual One Young World Summit. This is not just a conference; it is often described as the "Olympics of Young Leadership." The Summit unites the brightest young leaders from over 190 countries and 250+ organisations, where they address the most urgent challenges facing humanity.
Unlike traditional conferences, the Summit is not a passive experience. Delegates participate in four days of speeches, workshops, and working sessions, then become lifelong members of a global community of over 18,000 ambassadors. These ambassadors have gone on to launch initiatives that have impacted millions of lives, from healthcare access to climate action.
One Young World believes that financial barriers should never hold back a changemaker. That’s why the organisation partners with leading foundations and corporations to offer fully funded scholarships, covering travel, accommodation, Summit attendance, and meals.
Why this matters:
You gain global visibility
You access high-level networks
You join a long-term community, not a one-off event
Making an Impact
Through its programs, OYW accelerates social impact, drives youth empowerment, and champions innovation. By providing scholarships, OYW ensures that access to this network is not limited by geography, socio-economic status, or financial constraints, focusing instead on merit, passion, and potential.
What is a One Young World Scholarship?
A One Young World scholarship is a fully funded opportunity to attend the Summit and join the global network.
Why Apply for a One Young World Scholarship?
A One Young World scholarship is far more than a ticket to a conference. Recipients gain:
Full funding – Flights, accommodation, catering, and Summit access are covered.
Unrivalled networking – Connect with 2,000+ young leaders and 200+ Counsellors (global leaders, CEOs, and activists).
Skills & visibility – Participate in workshops and media opportunities that amplify your work.
Lifetime community – Join the One Young World Ambassador network, with access to project funding, mentorship, and speaking opportunities.
Post‑Summit impact – Many scholars go on to secure further funding, launch partnerships, and scale their initiatives.
Bottom line:
You are not just funded to attend — you’re positioned to scale your impact.
One Young World Scholarships 2026 (Open Now)
Below are the key programmes currently open, including deadlines, eligibility, and how to apply.
1. Hauwa Ojeifo Scholarship 2026
Named after the impactful mental health advocate and One Young World Ambassador Hauwa Ojeifo, this scholarship supports leaders advancing mental health, gender equality and those working on issues affecting marginalised communities.
Key Details
Application Deadline: 27 March 2026
Location: One Young World Summit, Cape Town (3–6 Nov 2026)
Focus Area: Mental Health, Disability Rights, Combating Sexual & Domestic Violence, and Rights of Vulnerable Populations (Women/Girls).
Eligibility Criteria
Aged 18–30
Demonstrated impact in areas such as:
Mental health
Women and girls’ rights
Sexual and reproductive health
Must be creating impact in Africa, Asia, or the Middle East
Benefits
Fully funded Summit participation
Lifetime membership in the OYW community
Access to mentorship and funding opportunities
Best fit: If your work focuses on mental health or gender issues, this is one of the strongest alignment opportunities.
2. dsm-firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2026
Supported by the dsm‑firmenich Progress Foundation, this scholarship seeks young leaders who are creating innovative solutions in food systems, circular economies, and biodiversity.
Key Details
Application Deadline: 1 April 2026
Key Focus Areas: Food security, Sustainable agriculture, Public health innovation
Eligibility Criteria
Open globally to individuals working on projects related to sustainable agriculture, food security, or environmental conservation. Applicants should demonstrate how their work aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Benefits
Fully funded Summit attendance
Global exposure and partnerships
Best fit: If your work connects climate + food + health, this is a strategic option.
3. AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026
The AstraZeneca Young Health Programme empowers young leaders to address the root causes of NCDs – such as mental health, tobacco use, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diets. This fellowship is designed for those running or scaling health‑focused initiatives. This is one of the most competitive fellowships.
Key Details
Deadline: 12 April 2026
Focus Areas: Preventing non-communicable diseases, Youth health and wellbeing, Climate impact on health, Health system resilience
Eligibility Criteria
Open to changemakers aged 18–30 who are actively working on youth health projects. Previous YHP alumni and grassroots health advocates are especially encouraged to apply.
Benefits
Fully funded Summit access
Entry into the Young Health Programme network
Ongoing support and collaboration opportunities
Best fit: If you’re building in public health or health innovation, prioritise this.
4. Sandoz Scholarship 2026
Sponsored by Sandoz, a global leader in generic and biosimilar pharmaceuticals, this scholarship targets young leaders who are working to expand affordable healthcare, improve health literacy, or advocate for sustainable healthcare systems. The scholarship is dedicated to those pioneering innovative solutions that expand healthcare access, making medical treatments more affordable and accessible to underserved populations.
Focus Areas
Access to essential medicines, Health equity, Public health systems
Eligibility: Open globally; applicants should have a demonstrated commitment to increasing healthcare access, particularly in underserved communities. Prior experience with policy advocacy, community health programmes, or pharmaceutical innovation is valued.
Benefits: Fully funded Summit participation, Global exposure to healthcare stakeholders
Best fit: If your work tackles health access gaps, especially in developing regions.
5. Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026
Offered by Z Zurich Foundation, this scholarship supports broader social impact. The Z Zurich Foundation supports young leaders who are building resilient communities – whether through mental health support, disaster preparedness, or tackling systemic inequalities. This scholarship is part of a multi‑year partnership to amplify youth‑led solutions.
Focus Areas: Climate resilience, Mental wellbeing, Social equity
Eligibility: Open to individuals aged 18–30 with a clear track record of driving change in resilience‑focused areas. Projects can range from community mental health initiatives to climate adaptation programmes.
Benefits: Fully funded Summit attendance, Exposure to global impact leaders
Best fit: If your work cuts across climate + social impact + community resilience.
6. Roche Scholarship 2026
Roche supports innovation in healthcare. As a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, Roche partners with One Young World to identify young leaders who are reimagining healthcare delivery. Scholars often work at the intersection of technology, personalised medicine, or patient‑centric care.
Application Deadline: 6 May 2026
Focus Areas: Health innovation, Diagnostics and treatment access, Healthcare systems
Eligibility: Open to changemakers worldwide who are developing or scaling healthcare solutions. Strong preference is given to those with a clear link to innovation – whether through digital tools, novel service models, or policy reform.
Benefits: Fully funded Summit experience, Visibility within global health networks
Best fit: If you’re working in healthtech, research, or healthcare delivery.
General Eligibility & How to Apply
While each scholarship has its own thematic focus, most One Young World scholarships share common eligibility criteria:
Age – Usually 18–30 at the time of the Summit (some scholarships may accept up to 35; always verify on the specific application page).
Leadership – Demonstrated track record of creating positive impact, whether through a non‑profit, social enterprise, or community initiative.
Commitment – Willingness to actively participate in the Summit and remain engaged with the One Young World community afterwards.
English proficiency – The Summit is conducted in English; applicants should be comfortable participating in discussions and workshops.
How to Apply
Visit the official One Young World Scholarships page – www.oneyoungworld.com/scholarships
Select the scholarship(s) that align with your work (you can apply for more than one if you meet the criteria).
Prepare your application – Most require:
A personal statement or video describing your leadership journey.
Details of your initiative/project, including its impact and future goals.
Two references (professional or community leaders who can attest to your work).
Your CV/resume.
Submit before the deadline – Late applications are not accepted.
How to Apply Strategically (Most People Get This Wrong)
Submitting an application is easy. Getting selected is not.
What selection panels actually look for
1. Proof of impact
Numbers matter: people reached, revenue, outcomes
Avoid vague statements
2. Clear problem-solution fit
Define a specific issue
Show how your work directly addresses it
3. Leadership in action
Did you start something?
Did people follow your lead?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Copy-pasting the same application across scholarships
Writing motivational essays with no evidence
Applying without aligning to the scholarship theme
Waiting until the deadline
Reality check: These scholarships are competitive because they attract people already doing real work.
Key Tips for a Strong Application
Be specific – Use numbers, stories, and outcomes to show your impact. Instead of “I help young people,” say “I have trained 1,200 teenagers in mental health first aid across 15 schools.”
Connect to the scholarship theme – Explain how your work directly relates to the focus area (e.g., mental health for Hauwa Ojeifo; sustainability for dsm‑firmenich).
Show the value of attending – Articulate how the Summit will help you scale your work. Are you looking for partners? Mentorship? Global visibility?
Proofread – A polished application signals professionalism and attention to detail.
Final Thoughts
The One Young World scholarships represent more than funding – they are a launchpad for the next generation of global leaders. Whether your passion lies in mental health, climate resilience, healthcare equity, or nutrition, there is a scholarship designed to support your journey.
With deadlines starting 27 March 2026, time is of the essence. Visit the official One Young World website today, review the full criteria, and take the first step toward joining a community of changemakers who are shaping a better world.
Ready to apply?
Explore all scholarships and submit your application here:
🔗 One Young World Scholarships – Official Page
Last updated March 2026. Always verify details on the official One Young World website.
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