Deadline: May 4, 2026
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for young leaders from around the world to attend the globally recognised One Young World Summit. This prestigious scholarship provides full financial support for emerging changemakers who are actively working to create positive impact in their communities.
Through this programme, selected participants will join a global network of youth leaders dedicated to addressing critical global challenges such as climate change, mental wellbeing, and social equity. The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 aims to empower young people who are already making meaningful contributions in these areas by giving them access to world-class leadership development opportunities, global networks, and international platforms for collaboration.
For young professionals, entrepreneurs, activists, and social innovators who are passionate about driving change, the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 represents a unique chance to gain global exposure and amplify the impact of their work.
About the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026
The Z Zurich Foundation partners with the global youth leadership organisation One Young World to support young leaders working on solutions to pressing global challenges.
Each year, the foundation selects approximately 25 outstanding young leaders from across the globe to participate in the One Young World Summit through this fully funded scholarship.
The programme focuses on individuals who are actively driving change in areas aligned with the foundation’s mission. Scholars are selected based on their leadership potential, commitment to social impact, and the measurable difference their initiatives are making in their communities.
Participants will attend the summit alongside hundreds of young leaders and influential global figures, where they will engage in discussions, workshops, and collaborative sessions aimed at addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues.
What Is the One Young World Summit?
The One Young World Summit is one of the most influential global gatherings of young leaders committed to social change.
Every year, the summit brings together thousands of participants from different countries, representing diverse sectors including civil society, entrepreneurship, education, and government. The event serves as a platform where young leaders can connect, exchange ideas, and collaborate on innovative solutions to global challenges.
Delegates gain access to inspiring keynote speeches, panel discussions, networking sessions, and leadership workshops designed to strengthen their ability to create lasting impact.
For many scholars, attending the summit becomes a life-changing experience that expands their global perspective and accelerates the growth of their initiatives.
Scholarship Benefits
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 provides a comprehensive funding package that covers all major costs associated with attending the summit.
Selected scholars will receive:
Fully Funded Access to the Summit
Recipients will gain full participation rights to the One Young World Summit, including all official sessions, networking events, and workshops.
Accommodation
Hotel accommodation will be provided for the entire duration of the summit.
International Flights
The scholarship includes round-trip international airfare, allowing selected scholars to travel to and from the summit location without financial burden.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided throughout the summit period.
Local Transportation
Ground transportation between official summit venues will be arranged for scholars.
Exclusive Z Zurich Foundation Sessions
Participants will also take part in specialised sessions organised by the Z Zurich Foundation, which provide additional opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and engagement with foundation representatives and fellow changemakers.
Global Networking Opportunities
Scholars will have the opportunity to connect with:
- Influential global leaders
- Social entrepreneurs
- Policy makers
- Other young changemakers from around the world
These connections often lead to partnerships, collaborations, and long-term opportunities for scaling impactful initiatives.
Key Focus Areas
Applicants for the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 should be actively working on projects that align with at least one of the foundation’s three priority impact areas.
Climate Change Adaptation
One of the central focus areas of the programme is climate resilience. The foundation seeks young leaders who are working on initiatives that help communities adapt to the effects of climate change.
Examples include projects focused on:
- Climate-resilient agriculture
- Disaster preparedness
- Sustainable environmental practices
- Community education on climate risks
Initiatives that strengthen local capacity to cope with climate-related challenges are highly valued.
Mental Wellbeing
Another priority area is mental health and wellbeing, particularly among young people.
Applicants may be working on initiatives that aim to:
- Promote mental health awareness
- Provide support services for young people
- Reduce stigma around mental health challenges
- Develop community-based mental wellbeing programmes
Innovative approaches that improve access to mental health resources are particularly encouraged.
Social Equity
The third focus area is social equity, which includes efforts aimed at reducing inequality and expanding opportunities for underserved communities.
Projects in this area may focus on:
- Expanding access to education
- Promoting inclusive employment opportunities
- Supporting youth entrepreneurship
- Addressing systemic barriers to economic and social mobility
Applicants whose initiatives empower marginalised communities or promote inclusive development are strongly encouraged to apply.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet several key requirements.
Age Requirement
Applicants should generally be between the ages of 18 and 30 at the time of application.
However, individuals slightly older may still be considered if they demonstrate exceptional impact and leadership.
Demonstrated Leadership
Candidates must show clear evidence of leadership ability through their work, initiatives, or community involvement.
Proven Social Impact
Applicants should be actively engaged in projects that are creating measurable positive change in their communities.
Commitment to Collaboration
Successful candidates must be willing to collaborate with fellow scholars and engage with representatives from the Z Zurich Foundation.
Passion for Global Issues
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to addressing global challenges such as climate change, mental health, and inequality.
Why Apply for the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026?
Participating in the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers several long-term benefits for young leaders.
Global Recognition
Being selected as a scholar places participants among a distinguished group of global changemakers.
Leadership Development
The programme provides access to leadership training and skill-building opportunities designed to strengthen participants’ ability to lead impactful initiatives.
Expanded Global Network
Scholars join a powerful international network of young leaders, mentors, and influential organisations working to address global challenges.
Increased Visibility for Impact Projects
The platform helps scholars amplify their initiatives and gain global attention for the work they are doing in their communities.
Opportunities for Collaboration
The connections made during the summit often lead to cross-border partnerships and collaborative projects.
Application Deadline
Application deadlines for the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 may vary depending on the scholarship cycle.
In previous years, applications typically closed between March and May, so interested candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible to maximise their chances of consideration.
Submitting a strong and complete application well before the deadline is highly recommended.
How to Apply
Applying for the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 involves completing an online application form and providing detailed information about your leadership experience and social impact initiatives.
Applicants will be required to explain:
- Their leadership journey
- The social issues they are addressing
- The impact of their work in their communities
- Their motivation for attending the One Young World Summit
The selection process is highly competitive, and candidates are evaluated based on the depth of their impact, the sustainability of their initiatives, and their potential to contribute meaningfully to the global community of changemakers.
To begin your application, visit the official page below.
Apply Here
Final Thoughts
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 stands out as one of the most impactful fully funded opportunities available for young leaders who are committed to making a difference in the world.
By providing full financial support to attend the One Young World Summit, the scholarship ensures that talented individuals from diverse backgrounds can access global platforms where their voices, ideas, and solutions can be heard.
For young changemakers working in areas such as climate resilience, mental wellbeing, and social equity, this programme offers a powerful opportunity to scale their impact, build meaningful partnerships, and strengthen their leadership capacity.
If you are passionate about creating positive change and have already taken steps to address important social issues, the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 could be the opportunity that connects your work with a global movement of leaders shaping a better future.
