Application Deadline: 4 May 2026
The application window is now open for the 2026 Z Zurich Foundation One Young World Scholarship, offering a fully funded opportunity for young African leaders. This scholarship targets individuals who are actively engaged in initiatives that assist vulnerable or marginalized youth in transitioning from education into sustainable employment or entrepreneurship, especially within low-income or underserved communities.
For 2026, the Z Zurich Foundation will select 25 promising young African leaders who are championing social equity through innovative solutions in education, employability, or entrepreneurship. These selected scholars will be given the chance to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026, scheduled to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3rd to 6th November. Beyond attendance, the scholarship includes participation in a specially designed pre- and post-Summit program aimed at nurturing leadership skills, expanding peer networks, and maximizing the positive impact of their work.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old by the time of the One Young World Summit in November 2026.
- They must be nationals and residents of African countries.
- Candidates should demonstrate tangible impact that aligns with the Z Zurich Foundation’s Enabling Social Equity framework.
- The leadership role must be within an early-stage initiative not supported by major corporate or institutional funders.
- The project should be a formally registered organization with a clear not-for-profit mission and possess an organizational bank account.
- Applicants must be serving in a primary leadership capacity within their initiative.
- Commitment to active participation in the Pre‑Summit Engagement & Preparation Program (September to October 2026) as well as the Post-Summit Debrief Session (late November 2026) is required. This includes involvement in reflection and personal development activities.
- Willingness to contribute actively to peer learning and collaboration before, during, and after the Summit is essential.
Scholarship Inclusions
The selected Z Zurich Foundation Scholars will receive a comprehensive package covering:
- Full access to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town from 3 to 6 November.
- Accommodation provided at a hotel in Cape Town from 1st to 6th November (inclusive).
- Round-trip airfare to and from Cape Town.
- All meals during the Summit, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Ground transportation between various Summit venues within Cape Town.
Additional Scholar Programs
Beyond the core Summit experience, the scholarship offers several additional curated engagements designed to enhance leadership development and community-building:
- Pre‑Summit Engagement & Preparation Program (September-October 2026): A virtual series focused on personal leadership growth and practical preparation for making the most of the Summit, featuring insights from selected experts.
- Pre-Summit Connection Day (2 November 2026): An in-person event in Cape Town held the day before the Summit begins, aimed at strengthening peer relationships and alignment with the Z Zurich Foundation’s mission.
- Post-Summit Debrief Session: An online session scheduled for late November 2026 where scholars reflect on their experiences and plan next steps.
- Scholars will also have the opportunity to apply for a competitive one-year Post-Summit Fellowship. This fellowship provides comprehensive capacity-building support through the Z Zurich Foundation’s Global Changemakers Program, with limited places awarded based on merit.
For comprehensive details and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Z Zurich Foundation One Young World Scholarship.
