Young leaders working to create positive change in their communities have been invited to apply for the One Young World Pernod Ricard Scholarship 2026, a prestigious opportunity that will enable selected participants to attend the internationally renowned One Young World Summit. The scholarship seeks to identify and support young individuals whose work is making a meaningful social impact while empowering them to expand their influence through global networking and leadership development.
The initiative is being offered through a partnership between One Young World and Pernod Ricard, bringing together a shared commitment to fostering responsible leadership and sustainable social progress. The scholarship provides successful applicants with full access to the summit, where they will engage with influential leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, activists, and innovators from around the world.
Organizers believe that empowering young people is essential to addressing many of today's global challenges, including social inequality, environmental sustainability, community development, and economic inclusion.
“Young leaders have the creativity, determination, and vision needed to build a more sustainable and inclusive future,”
the organizers stated in the scholarship announcement.
The One Young World Summit has become one of the world's most recognized gatherings of emerging leaders. Each year, thousands of participants from more than 190 countries come together to discuss solutions to pressing global issues while sharing experiences and building international networks.
For many attendees, participation in the summit represents a transformative experience. Delegates gain access to mentorship opportunities, leadership training, and connections that often lead to long-term collaborations and impactful projects.
The Pernod Ricard Scholarship specifically seeks applicants who are making significant contributions in areas such as social entrepreneurship, community development, responsible business practices, environmental sustainability, and youth empowerment. Organizers are particularly interested in individuals who have demonstrated leadership through practical action rather than simply academic achievement.
Applicants are expected to show evidence of measurable impact within their communities and a strong commitment to creating positive change. Selected scholars will join a global network of changemakers dedicated to solving some of society's most complex challenges.
According to leadership development experts, international platforms such as One Young World play an important role in helping young people expand their perspectives and develop the skills needed to address increasingly interconnected global issues.
“Leadership today requires collaboration across borders, sectors, and cultures,”
said a youth development specialist familiar with international leadership programs.
The scholarship comes at a time when youth participation in global decision-making processes is receiving increasing attention. Across the world, young people are leading initiatives focused on climate action, education, technology, health, gender equality, and entrepreneurship. Their contributions are helping shape conversations around sustainable development and social innovation.
In Africa, youth-led initiatives have gained particular momentum in recent years. Entrepreneurs, community organizers, and innovators across the continent are developing solutions that address local challenges while contributing to broader development goals. Many of these efforts are being recognized internationally, highlighting the growing influence of young African leaders on the global stage.
The One Young World Summit provides a valuable platform for such leaders to showcase their work, learn from experienced mentors, and engage with decision-makers who can help amplify their impact.
Beyond attending the summit, scholarship recipients become part of the wider One Young World community, which includes former delegates who continue collaborating long after the event concludes. Many alumni have gone on to launch successful organizations, influence public policy, secure funding for social enterprises, and lead major initiatives within their respective fields.
The networking opportunities offered through the program are often cited as one of its most valuable benefits. Participants gain access to a diverse community of professionals and leaders from different industries and regions, creating opportunities for future partnerships and knowledge exchange.
Organizers believe that supporting emerging leaders today can generate long-term benefits for communities and societies around the world.
“Investing in young leaders is investing in the future,”
the scholarship announcement emphasized.
As applications remain open, eligible young people are encouraged to apply and demonstrate how their work is contributing to positive social impact. The selection process will focus on leadership potential, community engagement, and the ability to inspire meaningful change.
For aspiring changemakers, the scholarship offers more than an opportunity to attend an international summit. It provides a platform to learn, connect, and contribute to global conversations shaping the future. By bringing together young leaders from diverse backgrounds and experiences, the program aims to foster collaboration and innovation capable of addressing some of the world's most urgent challenges.
As societies continue seeking solutions to complex social, economic, and environmental issues, initiatives such as the One Young World Pernod Ricard Scholarship demonstrate the growing importance of youth leadership. Through investment in emerging changemakers, the program is helping cultivate a new generation of leaders prepared to drive sustainable and inclusive progress across the globe.