Deadline: April 16, 2025
Today’s global challenges demand increasingly bold and innovative solutions that harness the power of technology and innovation to create a more sustainable and equitable future for both people and the planet.
Some of the most pressing of these challenges are the climate crisis and the protection of natural ecosystems. Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies offer significant opportunities as a tool for innovating and accelerating climate solutions, whether this be through optimising energy efficiency and smart monitoring, developing predictive climate models, or enabling smarter, data-driven decision-making. However, it is crucial that we look at how these new technologies are being used. With AI expected to exponentially increase energy usage and resource demands – increasing greenhouse gas emission as a result – ensuring its sustainable deployment is crucial to maximising benefits and preventing further harm to the planet and its ecosystems.
At the same time, the future of our planet depends on ensuring the next generation is equipped with the ‘future proof’ skills required to meet these challenges. The twin digital and green transition requires a stark investment in both green and digital skills to empower individuals, nations, and societies to thrive in this increasingly dynamic environment. Yet, millions worldwide still lack access to quality education and the necessary skills to succeed. By leveraging innovative solutions, we can bridge these gaps to create needed upskilling solutions, support and scale entrepreneurial ventures, and create new pathways to employment in a demanding and digital economy.
At Deloitte, we believe we have a responsibility to build a better, more sustainable future, within which every individual is empowered, uplifted, and able to achieve their full potential. Through our strategic initiatives, WorldClass and WorldClimate, we are respectively committed to expanding opportunities for 100 million people globally by 2030, as well as addressing climate change, both within our organisation and beyond.
As a proud and longstanding partner of One Young World, we are excited to support the Deloitte Scholarships 2025, which will bring together an interdisciplinary cohort of 8 young leaders – 4 education-focused and 4 climate-focused individuals – to attend the One Young World Summit in Munich, Germany, from 3-6 November 2025.
This scholarship is designed for young leaders who are pioneering innovative solutions to either address the causes and effects of climate change and protect natural ecosystems, or transform education and skills development for the future workforce.
We are seeking candidates who have demonstrated a commitment to:
1. Leveraging innovative solutions to combat climate change, for example:
- Developing AI-driven or technological solutions that reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
- Ensuring the sustainable deployment of AI solutions by developing innovative methods to reduce energy and water consumption in AI systems, promoting responsible resource use, and mitigating electronic waste.
- Protecting and restoring biodiversity by monitoring ecosystems, preventing deforestation, reducing habitat destruction, or supporting conservation efforts.
- Using data science, machine learning, or automation to predict and mitigate climate risks.
OR
2. Transforming education and skills development through innovation, for example:
- Using AI or technology to improve access to quality education and bridge skills gaps – particularly digital skills gaps – for underrepresented groups, including women, girls, and disadvantaged youth.
- Developing innovative education and training solutions that equip individuals with future-proof skills to ensure they can thrive in our evolving digital economies.
- Expanding education and training programs to include green skills, preparing individuals for jobs in the sustainable economy.
- Promoting upskilling initiatives that foster social entrepreneurship and innovation.
Deloitte Scholars will receive
- Access to the One Young World Summit 2025 in Munich.
- Travel restrictions permitting:
- Hotel accommodation in a private room between 2 – 6 November 2025 (inclusive)
- The cost of travel to and from Munich (economy class)
- Catering which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner (provided by the hotel and during the Summit)
- Ground transportation between Summit venues
- Participation in Deloitte-hosted sessions for their delegation in the lead-up to and during the Summit, and a Deloitte “buddy.”
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates must be:
- Aged 18 – 30*.
- Nationals of all countries will be eligible to apply for this scholarship, but must be based where Deloitte has a presence,
- Evidenced commitment to delivering positive change,
- Demonstrated capacity for leadership,
- Understanding of key local and/or global issues,
- Track record of generating impactful and innovative solutions to address either climate and environmental challenges, or education and skills-based challenges.
*Most delegates are between the ages of 18 and 30. The One Young World team will consider applications from those who are older than 30, pending demonstration of appropriate personal impact, initiative, and willingness to engage. We are not able to accept applications from those who will be aged under 18 at the time of the Summit.
