The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for young African leaders to attend the prestigious One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
The program supports changemakers who are working to help vulnerable youth transition from education into employment or entrepreneurship while providing global exposure, leadership development, and networking opportunities.
Quick Facts
- Host Country: South Africa
- Program Type: Leadership Summit / Fellowship
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Application Deadline: 4 May 2026
About the Opportunity
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 is designed to support emerging African leaders who are creating meaningful solutions that help young people access employment, develop entrepreneurial skills, and build sustainable livelihoods.
Africa is the world’s youngest continent, with more than 60% of its population under the age of 25. However, millions of young people across the region continue to face challenges such as limited access to education, job opportunities, financial resources, and technology.
Through this scholarship, the Z Zurich Foundation aims to empower grassroots leaders who are already addressing these challenges within their communities. Selected scholars will be invited to attend the One Young World Summit 2026, one of the world’s most influential gatherings of young leaders and innovators.
The summit will take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3 to 6 November 2026, bringing together young leaders from around the world to discuss global challenges and develop collaborative solutions.
In addition to attending the summit, selected participants will join specialized leadership development activities and networking sessions designed to expand their impact.
This opportunity is officially offered by the Z Zurich Foundation in partnership with One Young World, and applicants should apply through the official application portal.
Related Opportunity: You may also be interested in the Roche Scholarship 2026 for Healthcare Professionals attending the One Young World Summit in Cape Town.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be 18 to 35 years old by November 2026.
- Be a citizen and resident of an African country.
- Demonstrate a strong impact aligned with the social equity mission of the Z Zurich Foundation.
- Be leading an early-stage initiative focused on youth empowerment or social impact.
- The initiative must be operated through a formally registered non-profit organization.
- The organization must have a bank account registered in its name.
- Applicants must hold a primary leadership role within the initiative.
- The initiative should not currently receive major corporate or institutional funding.
- Applicants must be willing to participate in pre-summit and post-summit engagement programs.
Benefits
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 provides comprehensive support for selected participants.
Fully Funded Summit Participation
- Scholars will receive full access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town.
International Travel
- The scholarship covers return flights to and from Cape Town, South Africa.
Accommodation
- Participants will receive hotel accommodation between 1–6 November 2026.
Meals and Event Participation
- Daily meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided during the summit.
Local Transportation
- Ground transportation between official summit venues in Cape Town will be covered.
Leadership Development Programs
- Scholars will participate in a Pre-Summit Engagement and Preparation Program designed to strengthen leadership skills and prepare them for the summit experience.
Post-Summit Opportunities
- Participants may also apply for a one-year Post-Summit Fellowship under the Z Zurich Foundation Global Changemakers Program.
Who Should Apply
The Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2026 is ideal for young African changemakers who are already leading initiatives that support youth development.
This opportunity is particularly suitable for individuals who:
- Work to improve youth employability and vocational training
- Support entrepreneurship and economic empowerment
- Promote digital inclusion and technology access
- Help refugee or marginalized youth access opportunities
- Develop initiatives that encourage climate-resilient or sustainable livelihoods
Leaders with innovative grassroots projects that help young people transition from learning to earning are strongly encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Interested applicants should follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official scholarship application portal.
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal and professional details.
- Provide information about your initiative and leadership experience.
- Describe the social impact and goals of your project.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
Applications will be reviewed by the scholarship selection committee.
How to Apply
Young African leaders working to empower youth through education, entrepreneurship, and employment initiatives should consider applying for this global leadership opportunity.
Submitting your application early will give you enough time to prepare the necessary details about your initiative and impact.
