The Ilia Calderón Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications, offering an incredible opportunity for young leaders from Latin America and the Caribbean to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa. This fully funded scholarship is designed to support exceptional individuals who are creating positive change in their communities through innovative leadership, social impact projects, and advocacy initiatives.
Organized in partnership with the Jang Calderón Family Foundation and One Young World, the scholarship aims to empower talented young changemakers by giving them access to a global platform where they can connect with world leaders, entrepreneurs, activists, and policymakers. The program has continued to grow in popularity since its launch and has become one of the most competitive international leadership opportunities for young professionals.
For students, entrepreneurs, activists, and community leaders looking for a fully funded international summit opportunity in 2026, the Ilia Calderón Scholarship is an excellent chance to expand leadership skills, build international networks, and represent their communities on a global stage.
About
The Ilia Calderón Scholarship was established to support young leaders from underrepresented communities in Latin America and the Caribbean. The scholarship specifically focuses on individuals who are leading impactful projects and initiatives that create measurable social change.
The scholarship will fund two outstanding young leaders to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, scheduled to take place from November 3 to November 6, 2026. The initiative continues the successful collaboration between One Young World and the Jang Calderón Family Foundation.
This scholarship is highly competitive because it not only provides financial support but also offers access to one of the world’s leading youth leadership platforms.
Benefits
The Ilia Calderón Scholarship 2026 is fully funded and covers all major expenses related to participation in the summit. Selected candidates will receive several benefits that make the opportunity accessible to talented young leaders regardless of financial background.
The scholarship benefits include:
- Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
- Hotel accommodation during the summit period
- Round-trip economy airfare to South Africa
- Domestic transportation costs to the airport
- Visa fee support if applicable
- Transportation between accommodation and summit venue
- Meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the event
- Translation services from English to Spanish during plenary sessions and key events
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants interested in the Ilia Calderón Scholarship 2026 must meet specific eligibility requirements. The scholarship targets young leaders who are actively involved in solving problems within their communities.
To be eligible, candidates must:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of the summit
- Be citizens of eligible countries in Latin America or the Caribbean
- Demonstrate leadership skills and commitment to social impact
- Show evidence of innovative projects or initiatives
- Address local or global issues within their communities
- Have a proven record of generating positive impact
- Show strong motivation to participate in the One Young World Summit
Although the typical age range is 18 to 30 years, applications from individuals older than 30 may also be considered if they demonstrate significant impact and leadership experience.
Eligible Countries
The scholarship is open to applicants from several countries across Latin America and the Caribbean. Eligible nationalities include:
- Colombia
- Venezuela
- Dominican Republic
- Haiti
- Panama
- Honduras
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Mexico
- Nicaragua
- Argentina
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Chile
- Ecuador
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Uruguay
- Jamaica
- Barbados
- Bahamas
- Belize
- Cuba
- Guyana
- Suriname
- Trinidad and Tobago
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Dominica
- Grenada
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Saint Kitts and Nevis
Applicants from these countries are encouraged to apply as early as possible due to the highly competitive selection process.
Why You Should Apply
The Ilia Calderón Scholarship 2026 is more than just a funded trip to an international summit. It is a life-changing leadership experience that allows participants to engage with influential leaders and collaborate with other young changemakers from around the world.
Participants gain exposure to international perspectives, leadership training, mentorship opportunities, and professional development resources. Many former One Young World delegates have gone on to launch impactful organizations, influence policies, and create global partnerships.
This scholarship also provides an excellent opportunity to build long-term international networks that can support future career growth and social impact initiatives.
For young leaders passionate about creating change, the One Young World Summit offers a unique environment where ideas become actionable solutions.
Application Process
Interested applicants must complete the online application form through the official One Young World website. Candidates are expected to provide detailed information about their leadership experience, social impact projects, achievements, and future goals.
Applicants should ensure that their application clearly highlights:
- Leadership experience
- Community impact
- Innovation in solving problems
- Motivation for attending the summit
- Long-term vision for social change
A strong application should focus on measurable achievements and demonstrate how participation in the summit will help amplify the applicant’s impact.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply is 15 June 2026.
Late applications are unlikely to be accepted, so applicants are advised to prepare and submit their materials before the closing date.
Apply here
Link: https://www.oneyoungworld.com/scholarship/ilia-calderon-scholarship-2026
