The Changemakers for Youth Program 2026 is a transformative, multi-year initiative designed to identify, support, and amplify young social entrepreneurs who are creating meaningful change within their communities. The programme focuses on strengthening youth-led initiatives that address pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges while actively engaging young people as agents of change.
This initiative provides a unique platform for emerging leaders to enhance their impact, expand their networks, and gain access to tailored learning opportunities that support sustainable and inclusive development.
Programme Vision and Objectives
The Changemakers for Youth Program seeks to build a strong community of young innovators who are committed to long-term social transformation. Its core objective is to equip selected participants with the skills, resources, and networks required to scale their initiatives and deepen their engagement with youth-centered solutions.
Over a three-year period, the programme aims to support 80 changemakers, beginning with an initial cohort of 20 participants in 2026. The initiative promotes cross-cultural collaboration, peer learning, and co-creation across different national and regional contexts.
Eligible participants are drawn from the following countries:
Egypt, Germany, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Palestine, Switzerland, and Tunisia.
What the Programme Offers
Selected changemakers will benefit from a comprehensive support framework that combines learning, funding, and global networking opportunities.
1. Tailored Capacity-Building Support
Participants will engage in customised learning modules designed to strengthen leadership, organisational development, systems thinking, and social innovation skills. These sessions are delivered through a mix of online workshops and in-person engagements, ensuring flexibility and accessibility.
2. In-Person Immersive Summit
The Changemakers for Youth Program includes a five-day residential summit that brings participants together for intensive learning, collaboration, and peer exchange. This immersive experience is designed to foster deep connections, encourage cross-border partnerships, and provide space for reflection and strategic planning.
3. Seed Funding for Collaborative Initiatives
Participants will have access to financial support to develop and implement collaborative projects. These projects emphasize youth engagement, peer-to-peer learning, and cross-community cooperation, enabling changemakers to test innovative ideas and expand their impact.
4. Access to Global Networks and Partnerships
The Changemakers for Youth Program connects participants to a diverse ecosystem of mentors, facilitators, partner organisations, and fellow changemakers. This network offers ongoing opportunities for collaboration, visibility, and learning beyond the duration of the programme.
5. Lifelong Community Membership
Graduates of the Changemakers for Youth Program become lifelong members of an international changemaker community. This ensures continued access to global opportunities, events, learning spaces, and collaborative initiatives long after the programme concludes.
Who Should Apply
The Changemakers for Youth Program is designed for young social innovators and entrepreneurs who are actively leading or co-leading initiatives with demonstrated social impact. Ideal candidates are individuals who are committed to youth empowerment and who place young people at the center of their work.
Applicants should:
- Be leading or co-leading a social enterprise, organisation, or initiative addressing real-world challenges
- Demonstrate a clear commitment to youth engagement and participation
- Operate and reside in one of the eligible countries
- Show evidence of impact, innovation, or strong potential for growth and sustainability
Both early-stage and more established initiatives are welcome, provided they align with the programme’s values and objectives.
Selection Process
Applications are reviewed through a competitive and transparent selection process. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in an online interview, allowing the selection committee to better understand their work, leadership journey, and vision for impact.
Final selections are based on leadership potential, commitment to youth-centered approaches, social impact, and the applicant’s ability to contribute to and benefit from a diverse, collaborative cohort.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 29 March 2026
- Interview Period: Following application review
- Programme Start: 2026
All applicants will be informed of their application status after the selection process is completed.
Why This Programme Matters
The Changemakers for Youth Program 2026 goes beyond traditional leadership development by placing young people at the heart of social transformation. It recognizes youth not only as beneficiaries but as leaders, innovators, and decision-makers capable of shaping more inclusive and sustainable futures.
By combining practical support, financial resources, and a strong international network, the programme creates an enabling environment for young changemakers to thrive, collaborate, and drive long-lasting impact within their communities and beyond.
