Are you a young leader with a burning desire to create positive change in the world, but feel limited by resources or access? The One Young World Leading Scholarship has been relaunched with a crucial update: a rolling application deadline, opening doors wider for passionate individuals like you to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully navigate the application process and seize this life-changing opportunity.
For many aspiring change-makers, the thought of attending a global forum like the One Young World Summit, where world leaders and impactful youth converge, can feel like a distant dream. Costs associated with travel, accommodation, and summit fees often pose significant barriers. However, the One Young World Leading Scholarship is specifically designed to dismantle these hurdles, offering fully funded access to outstanding young leaders who are actively driving positive change in their communities and beyond. Having advised countless bright minds on similar opportunities, I’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared application can truly set you apart and unlock unparalleled experiences.
What is the One Young World Leading Scholarship?
The One Young World Leading Scholarship is a flagship initiative by One Young World, a global forum that identifies, promotes, and connects the world’s most impactful young leaders. This scholarship program is particularly geared towards supporting young individuals from countries that have historically been under-represented at global summits and decision-making platforms. Its core objective is to ensure that the brightest minds, regardless of their geographical location or financial background, have a seat at the table to contribute to global solutions.
This isn’t just about attending a conference; it’s about joining a vibrant, action-oriented community of over 18,700 Ambassadors from 196 countries who are committed to making a tangible difference in the world. Since 2010, One Young World Ambassadors have collectively impacted over 41.56 million people globally, a testament to the power of this network and the support it provides.
One Young World Leading Scholarship
| Key Fact | Detail/Statistic | Source |
| Purpose | To empower outstanding young leaders from under-represented regions to attend the One Young World Summit. | One Young World Scholarships FAQ |
| Coverage | Fully funded, typically covering travel, accommodation, and catering during the Summit. | One Young World Scholarships Page |
| Eligibility Age | Generally 18-30 years old at the time of the Summit. | One Young World Scholarships FAQ |
| Application Process | Reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority for first-time attendees. | Opportunities For Africans – One Young World Leading Scholarship 2025 |
The relaunch of the One Young World Leading Scholarship with rolling application deadlines presents an incredible opportunity for young leaders to step onto a global stage and amplify their impact. This fully funded scholarship is more than just an attendance pass; it’s an investment in your potential and a gateway to a lifelong community of changemakers. If you have a track record of creating positive change and a vision for a better world, don’t let this opportunity pass you by.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
A fully funded scholarship to the One Young World Summit means peace of mind for aspiring delegates. The Leading Scholarship typically covers:
- Full delegate access to the One Young World Summit, including all sessions, workshops, and networking events.
- Hotel accommodation in a private room for the duration of the Summit (e.g., typically between 2-6 November for the 2025 Summit in Munich).
- Catering, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, provided by the hotel and during Summit events.
- The cost of travel to and from the Summit location (economy class flights). It’s important to note that your flight must usually depart from and return to the same international airport.
- Ground transportation between Summit venues, ensuring smooth logistics during your participation.
This comprehensive coverage allows scholars to focus entirely on the learning, networking, and impactful discussions at the Summit without the burden of financial concerns.
Who is the One Young World Leading Scholarship For?
One Young World seeks out young leaders who are not just talking about change but are actively creating it. You are eligible for the Leading Scholarship if you meet the following general criteria:
- Age: You must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of the One Young World Summit.
- Commitment to Positive Change: You have an evidenced and passionate commitment to delivering positive change in your community, country, or on a global scale. This is the cornerstone of a successful application.
- Leadership Capacity: You can demonstrate a clear capacity for leadership, whether through formal roles or informal influence within your initiatives.
- Addressing Key Issues: Your work actively addresses significant local and/or global issues. One Young World aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), so showcasing your contribution to these areas is highly beneficial.
- Track Record of Impact: You have a proven history of generating impactful and innovative ideas. This could be through projects, campaigns, social enterprises, or community initiatives.
One Young World places particular emphasis on bringing diverse voices to the forefront. Therefore, priority is often given to applicants from countries that have been less represented at previous Summits, ensuring a truly global perspective.
The Rolling Application Deadline: A Game Changer
The reintroduction of a rolling application deadline for the One Young World Leading Scholarship is a significant advantage. Unlike fixed deadlines that can create immense pressure and limit opportunities for those who discover the scholarship later, a rolling deadline allows applications to be reviewed as they are submitted. This means:
- Flexibility: You have more time to craft a thoughtful and compelling application without the last-minute rush.
- Early Consideration: Submitting your application earlier could mean it gets reviewed sooner, potentially increasing your chances of securing a spot.
- Opportunity for Under-represented Nations: This structure further supports the scholarship’s aim to include leaders from less represented nations, as they have an extended window to apply.
While the application review is on a rolling basis, it’s crucial to remember that scholarship places are competitive. Therefore, submitting your application well in advance of the overall final deadline (e.g., July 7, 2025, for the 2025 Summit) is always advisable.
Crafting a Standout Application
Now, let’s talk strategy. As someone who has spent years guiding aspiring scholars, I can tell you that a compelling application is born from clarity, authenticity, and a clear demonstration of your impact. Here are my top tips:
1. Be Relevant and Specific
Carefully read the scholarship criteria. Every word matters. Ensure your application directly addresses what One Young World is looking for. Don’t just state you’re a leader; provide concrete examples of your leadership in action.
2. Showcase Your Impact, Not Just Your Intentions
One Young World wants to see what you have done, not just what you plan to do. Detail the mission of your initiative or organization. Quantify your impact whenever possible: how many people have you impacted? What specific changes have you brought about? For instance, if you’re tackling health and environmental equity, highlight how your innovative solutions are making the world a healthier place, as seen in past Lead2030 winners like Quinn Underwood, who focused on reducing barriers to primary healthcare through digital health technology. One Young World – Meet the 2019 Lead2030 Winners
3. Tell Your Unique Story
What distinguishes you? What makes your journey and your impact unique? One Young World seeks diverse perspectives and experiences. Avoid generic statements. Instead, share specific anecdotes that illustrate your determination, dedication, and the unique challenges you’ve overcome.
4. Articulate Your “Why”
Why do you want to attend the One Young World Summit? Beyond the prestige, what do you hope to gain? How will this experience amplify your impact? Emphasize your desire to join the Ambassador community and contribute actively, not just passively receive. They are looking for leaders who will continue to engage long after the Summit concludes.
5. Provide Evidence
Include links to articles, videos, or online documentation that showcase your work. Visuals and external validation can significantly strengthen your application. This helps the selection committee truly see your initiatives in action.
6. The Power of English (and Proofreading)
All applications must be submitted in English. If English is not your first language, consider asking a friend, mentor, or colleague to review your application for clarity and grammar. Proofread meticulously. A clean, error-free application reflects professionalism and attention to detail.
7. Don’t Be Discouraged
The application process can be competitive, and it’s easy to feel discouraged. However, as One Young World themselves advise, if you don’t apply, you’ll never know. Even if you’re not successful this time, countless opportunities arise within the One Young World community throughout the year.
Beyond the Summit: The One Young World Ambassador Community
Being a One Young World Leading Scholar is just the beginning. The real magic happens within the Ambassador community. This global network provides ongoing support, collaboration opportunities, and platforms for continued impact. You’ll gain access to exclusive regional networking events, mentorship, and opportunities to further develop your leadership skills through programs like the One Young World Academy.
Hear from past recipients who have leveraged this platform to amplify their work. Muhammad Rezki Achyana, founder of Parakerja, an Indonesian startup focused on digital transformation of education for people with disabilities, shared how joining OYW helped him gain different perspectives in creating an inclusive society. Deloitte and One Young World Partnership
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FAQ
Q1: What is the age range for the One Young World Leading Scholarship?
A: Generally, applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of the One Young World Summit. Specific scholarship opportunities might have slightly varying age requirements, so always check the individual scholarship page on the One Young World website.
Q: Do I need to have a specific academic background to apply for the scholarship?
A: No, the One Young World Leading Scholarship is not tied to a specific academic background. It focuses on your demonstrated commitment to positive change, leadership capacity, and track record of impact in addressing local or global issues.
Q2: Can I apply if I have previously attended a One Young World Summit?
A: While all are welcome to apply, priority is generally given to first-time Summit attendees (not existing One Young World Ambassadors) to ensure broader representation. However, being an existing Ambassador does not automatically disqualify you from other scholarship opportunities listed on the One Young World website.
Q3: How long does the application review process take?
A: Since applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, the timeframe for notification can vary. One Young World aims to notify applicants directly via email, regardless of the outcome. It’s advisable to submit your application well in advance and monitor your email, including spam folders, for updates.
Q4: What kind of impact is One Young World looking for?
A: One Young World seeks young leaders who are driving tangible and innovative solutions to global issues, often aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. They are interested in quantifiable impact, whether it’s through social enterprises, community projects, or advocacy efforts.
