The One Young World Summit is the world’s leading global forum for young leaders, bringing together more than 2,200 delegates from over 190 countries to advance solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges. In 2026, the Summit returns to Africa, taking place in Cape Town, South Africa, followed by Tokyo, Japan in 2027.
This guide explains how young leaders can attend the Summit through scholarships, global competitions, awards, and organisational pathways. It also includes full details of upcoming future Summits.
The One Young World Summit convenes young leaders aged 18–35 who are driving social impact across business, civil society, government, health, education, technology, and human rights. Delegates participate in:
High-level plenary sessions
Interactive workshops and leadership development
Networking with CEOs, activists, diplomats, and global change-makers
Mentorship from One Young World Counsellors
Action-oriented discussions on climate, health, peace, equity, technology, and more
After the Summit, delegates become One Young World Ambassadors and join a lifelong network of more than 20,500 young leaders.
One Young World’s Leading Scholarships provide full financial support, including:
Summit registration
Travel expenses
Accommodation
Meals
Leadership development sessions
These scholarships support young leaders working in areas such as climate action, health, Indigenous rights, peacebuilding, entrepreneurship, migration, education, and social justice.
The Lead2030 programme identifies and funds the world’s most impactful youth-led solutions aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Winners receive:
Grant funding to expand their project
Mentorship from global companies
A fully funded place at One Young World 2026
Global visibility and long-term support
This path is ideal for innovators, social entrepreneurs, and youth-led organisations.
The Leadership Awards recognise outstanding young leaders across sectors including:
Politics and governance
Journalism and communications
Entrepreneurship
Community development and peacebuilding
Technology and digital innovation
Human rights and social equity
Award recipients receive funding, a fully funded Summit invitation, and the opportunity to showcase their work on a global platform.
Many companies, foundations, and institutions sponsor young employees or members to attend the Summit. Organisational pathways may include:
Full financial support
Access to tailored leadership programmes
Opportunities to implement learnings within the organisation
Young professionals are encouraged to inquire with their HR or CSR teams regarding sponsorship opportunities.
Dates: 3 – 6 November 2026
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)
Opening Ceremony: DHL Stadium
In November 2026, the One Young World Summit returns to Africa for the first time since Johannesburg 2013. Cape Town, the host city, will welcome delegates during the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Youth Uprising, offering a powerful backdrop for conversations on justice, innovation, and youth leadership.
Cape Town is widely recognised as Africa’s most business-friendly city and a major gateway between emerging and developed markets. With more than eight million international visitors annually and a reputation for world-class events, the city offers a dynamic environment for global leadership dialogue.
South Africa’s rich culture, natural beauty, and hospitality rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu make it an ideal setting for the Summit.
Statement from Geordin Hill-Lewis, Mayor of Cape Town:
“Here in South Africa, young leaders are driving economic empowerment, building businesses, creating jobs, and tackling challenges with bold innovation. They’re unlocking opportunity, forging a more inclusive, sustainable economy – embodying the very values at the heart of One Young World, and we can’t wait to welcome the world’s most impactful young leaders to Cape Town for the 2026 Summit.”
Dates: 28 September – 1 October 2027
Venue: Tokyo International Forum
In 2027, One Young World returns to Asia for the first time since Bangkok 2015. Tokyo will host the Summit in a city where centuries-old culture and modern innovation coexist.
Japan is home to one of One Young World’s most vibrant ambassador communities. Tokyo’s global influence, commitment to innovation, and cultural depth create an inspiring environment for next-generation leadership.
Statement from Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo:
“It is my hope that new values centred on future generations will emerge from Tokyo, a city where cutting-edge culture and traditions from the days of Edo co-exist. I wish to share the ideas generated with all of Japan and the world.”
Participants aged 18–35 working in fields such as:
Business and entrepreneurship
NGOs and civil society
Healthcare and public health
Technology and digital innovation
Education and youth leadership
Climate action and environmental protection
Media, journalism, and communications
Government and public policy
Influential global figures, including:
Heads of state and diplomats
CEOs and business leaders
Nobel laureates
Human rights advocates
Global activists
Innovators and cultural figures
Major companies and institutions that mentor, sponsor, and support young leaders.
One Young World is a long-term leadership ecosystem. Ambassadors receive:
Access to a global network of 20,500+ leaders
Visibility for their initiatives
Opportunities for collaboration and funding
Continued mentorship and learning opportunities
Global platforms to scale their impact
Prospective delegates are encouraged to register interest early to receive updates about:
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