If you’re a young leader, and you want to bring about positive change, the Fully Funded One Young World Leading Scholarship in South Africa 2026 is really an excellent chance. It’s a well-regarded scholarship that backs standout young people from all over the world, so they can attend the One Young World Summit in South Africa. Also, the participants don’t just show up and listen, they sharpen leadership skills, grow global relationships, and collaborate alongside inspiring changemakers from various nations, which honestly feels kind of refreshing.
The One Young World Summit kinda brings together really talented young leaders, who are doing positive things in their communities, day by day. Also, participants usually end up sitting through keynote speeches, going to workshops and joining those networking moments plus leadership discussions, with world-renowned experts. So basically, this scholarship is there to help young leaders broaden their understanding while also shaping workable answers for those global challenges that keep showing up everywhere.
Scholarship Overview
| Host Country | South Africa |
| Host Institution | One Young World |
| Degree level | International Leadership Scholarship |
| Eligible Applicants | Young Leaders from Around the World |
| Deadline | 31 October 2026 |
About the One Young World Leading Scholarship
The One Young World Leading Scholarship sort of backs exceptional young leaders who are working on social, environmental, and economic problems, all at once. Each year it allows chosen participants to go to the global One Young World Summit, together with delegates from more than 190 countries.
Furthermore, the summit encourages collaboration, innovation, and leadership development. As a result, participants learn from influential speakers, exchange ideas with global leaders, and create lasting professional networks. Besides attending inspiring sessions, scholars also gain practical knowledge that helps them increase their impact in their communities.
Scholarship Benefits
Eligible participants to receive the Fully Funded One Young World Leading Scholarship in South Africa 2026 will be financially supported. This means that scholars can actually participate in the summit without worrying about incurring travel and participation costs.
By selected you can get the following listed benefits:
- Attend all events at the One Young World Summit 2026
- Hotel accommodation during the summit
- Round-trip economy airfare
- All of your meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Transportado local entre el alojamiento y el lugar de la cumbre
- Networking opportunities with global leaders
- Leadership development sessions and workshops
- Connect with delegates from all over the world: 190+ countries
- Certificate of participation
Summit Themes
The Fully Funded One Young World Leading Scholarship in South Africa 2026 welcomes young leaders working on solutions to today’s global challenges. Therefore, applicants from different academic and professional backgrounds can apply if they are creating a positive impact in their communities. In addition, the summit encourages innovative ideas that support sustainable development and global cooperation.
Some of the main summit themes include:
- Climate Action
- Education
- Entrepreneurship
- Gender Equality
- Human Rights
- Digital Innovation
- Artificial Intelligence
- Youth Leadership
- Peace and Security
- Public Health
- Sustainable Development
- Social Entrepreneurship
- Economic Development
- Community Empowerment
- Environmental Sustainability
- Technology for Good
- Mental Health
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Global Citizenship
- Innovation and Social Impact
Applicants should clearly explain how their work connects with one or more of these themes in their application.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, candidates should carefully review the scholarship requirements. Although applicants come from different countries and professions, they should demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to creating positive change, the common requirement criteria are listed below:
- Be young leaders from any country.
- Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Show a strong commitment to creating positive social impact.
- Demonstrate leadership experience through academic, professional, or community work.
- Have a proven record of volunteering, innovation, or community service.
- Be willing to attend the One Young World Summit in South Africa.
- Be able to communicate effectively in English.
- Submit all required documents before the application deadline.
Required Documents
Documents normally expected from applicants include the following:
Online application form filled out
- Updated CV
- Passport or national ID copy
- Certificate for master’s degree
- Transcripts
- Research proposal (where applicable)
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
- Letters of recommendation (where applicable)
- English language proficiency certificate (where applicable)
Other documents required by the chosen program
All documents shall be legible, current and submitted before the application deadline.
English Proficiency Requirements
Foreign candidates may require evidence of their English language skills if their prior education was not delivered in English.
Depending on the particular master’s program, the following English language tests may be accepted:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
- Cambridge English Qualifications
Other internationally recognized English language certificates.
How to Apply for One Young World Leading Scholarship in South Africa 2026
The One Young World Leading Scholarship in South Africa 2026 can be applied to through an easy online process. The following steps will guide you:
Step 1: Go to the Official Website
Go to the One Young World Leading official website and check the list of offered master’s programs.
Step 2: Select Your Program
Based on your academic qualification and area of interest choose the master;s program.
Step 3: Review the Admission Criteria:
Read the requirements for admission to the university’s chosen program.
Step 4: Make Your Docs
Gather all compulsory documents that include your Resume, DMC, research proposal (if needed) and other related documents.
Step 5: Carefully Fill Online Application Form
Put all information accurate in the online application form.
Step 6: Submit Required Documents.
Before the submission of your application, submit all the documents in the accurate format.
Step 7: Application Submission.
Review carefully your application and submit before the deadline.
Step 8: Await for the Results
Once the deadline of application is passed, the university will assess all the applications. Selected candidates will be called for further evaluation or interview based on the master and phd program chosen.
Application Deadline
The application process will be followed according to:
Candidates must pay close attention to the university’s website to keep track of the most up-to-date admission calendar.
Application Ends: As per the official application notification
Selection Process: Following the application end
Admission Notification: It is notified by One Young World Leading.
Course Started Year: 2027
Deadline : 31 October 2026
There may be technical problems at the last moment. It is strongly recommended that candidates apply as early as possible to the deadline.
