Are you a young African leader working to help vulnerable youth move from learning to earning? The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now calling for applications from changemakers like you who are already creating real impact in their communities. This opportunity supports those working in education, employability, entrepreneurship, and social equity across Africa. Selected scholars will join the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town and connect with a global network of young leaders. Applications close on 4 May 2026, so this is a time-sensitive opportunity that requires early preparation.
The scholarship is offered through the partnership between Z Zurich Foundation and One Young World, and it focuses on empowering young leaders who are solving real-world challenges.
What the Scholarship Covers
This scholarship is fully funded and designed to remove financial barriers for selected young leaders. It ensures participants can focus on learning, networking, and amplifying their impact at a global level. Beyond the summit itself, scholars also gain access to leadership development and community-building activities. The programme is especially valuable for grassroots leaders who often lack access to international platforms. It is both a funding opportunity and a leadership accelerator.
- Full participation in One Young World Summit 2026 (Cape Town)
- Return international flights
- Hotel accommodation (1–6 November 2026)
- Meals during the summit
- Local transportation between summit venues
- Pre- and post-summit leadership development programmes
Who Can Apply
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship targets young African changemakers who are already leading impact-driven initiatives. It is not an entry-level opportunity, but rather a programme for individuals with demonstrated leadership. Applicants must show clear evidence of work in education, employment, or entrepreneurship support. The selection process is highly competitive and focuses on real outcomes. You should be able to prove your initiative is active and making measurable change.
- Be a young leader from Africa
- Work on youth employability, education, or entrepreneurship
- Lead an active initiative or organisation
- Demonstrate clear social impact
- Be committed to participating in all programme activities
Focus Areas of the Programme
The scholarship is aligned with the mission of improving opportunities for vulnerable young people. It prioritizes initiatives that remove barriers and create pathways to stable livelihoods. The focus is especially strong on practical, community-level solutions. Applicants should align their work with at least one of the priority areas. Strong alignment improves selection chances significantly.
- Youth employability and skills development
- Youth entrepreneurship and income generation
- Digital inclusion and future of work
- Education-to-employment transition support
- Mental wellbeing and social inclusion
Key Dates
The application timeline is short and clearly defined. Missing the deadline means waiting another year, so early submission is important. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted after the deadline for additional steps. The summit itself happens later in the year in South Africa. Always double-check updates on the official portal before applying.
- Applications Open: March 2026
- Application Deadline: 4 May 2026
- Summit Dates: 3 – 6 November 2026 (Cape Town)
Application Process
The application is submitted online and requires a strong demonstration of impact. It is not enough to state intentions; you must show results. Supporting documents and clarity of your initiative are critical. Many applicants are rejected due to weak or vague project descriptions. Take time to present your work clearly and convincingly.
You will need:
- Completed online application form
- Evidence of your leadership and initiative
- Description of your impact and goals
- Commitment to attend all programme activities
This scholarship is more than access to a summit. It is a platform that connects young African leaders to global decision-makers and peers. It helps scale local solutions into global conversations. For many participants, it becomes a turning point in their leadership journey. The network and exposure can open long-term opportunities far beyond the programme itself.
Final Thoughts
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 is highly competitive but extremely valuable for young African changemakers. It rewards action, not just ideas. If you are already driving impact in your community, this is your chance to take your work to a global stage.
If you want to visit Cape Town this Summer then here is another opportutnity to get a funded trip.
