Program Overview:

Applications are now open for the 2026 cohort of NewNow Leaders, an initiative supported by Virgin Unite and One Young World. This program selects ten trailblazing young leaders from the Global South who demonstrate a profound commitment to driving systemic change. The 2026 program includes a fully funded scholarship to attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 3 to 6, 2026. By emphasizing systems thinking and collective action, the program empowers participants to redefine social impact
and join an elite global network of changemakers.

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Eligibility: ​​​​

Candidates must:
● Be aged 18 – 30.
● Be nationals of countries in the Global South.
● Have demonstrated successful leadership through real and impactful initiatives.
● Show strong understanding of key local and/or global issues, especially those that require systems thinking approaches.
● Have a proven track-record of implementing systems-thinking principles to generate innovative, long-term and sustainable impact.
● Showcase evidence of impact in addressing complex challenges through systems thinking.
● Demonstrate a willingness to work collaboratively with the NewNow cohort and help promote successful examples of systems change through their own networks and media opportunities.

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Benefits: 

● A scholarship at the One Young World Summit Cape Town, 2026 and lifelong membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community.
● Features on One Young World and Virgin Unite channels elevating their profiles among the global community for young leaders and beyond.
● Opportunities to amplify your work through media and speaking opportunities.

● Access to the One Young World Global Leadership Programme and Action Accelerator.
● Membership of The NewNow Community, exclusive capacity building workshops designed to enhance your confidence, skills, and influence as systems leaders.
● Opportunities to collaborate with fellow NewNow leaders on joint projects and
advocacy.​​​

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​​​​​Important Dates (s): ​​​​

 

The Application is Open NOW!!!
Application Deadline: February 16, 2026

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