The call for Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Young Leaders Awards 2026 is open now!!!
The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust’s 100 Young Leaders Awards aims to enhance the global visibility of emerging leaders, empowering them to expand their societal contributions while promoting sustainable development within their communities. Awardees will receive recognition at the official awards ceremony, along with the opportunity to apply for a microgrant to scale their impactful projects or organizations. Additionally, they will benefit from tailored capacity-building and mentorship to strengthen their leadership and organizational growth. The awards provide a global platform for recognition through extensive media coverage, marking a significant milestone in QECT’s history. Lastly, recipients will have the chance to network with funders, partners, and field experts through virtual and/or in-person events.
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In commemoration of what would have been Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday in April 2026, the Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT) has launched a special initiative to recognize 100 inspirational Young Leaders from across the Commonwealth. Building on the legacy of the Queen’s Young Leaders programme, this new award will celebrate exceptional individuals from diverse regions, representing QECT’s five key focus areas: education and employability, environment, food and agriculture, health, and inclusion. This initiative aims to elevate the profiles of these Young Leaders globally, empowering them to further amplify their social impact within their communities, countries, and regions.
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The QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026 is designed to highlight and empower extraordinary young leaders driving positive change in their communities and beyond. The QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards is more than an award – it is a platform for empowering youth leaders who are shaping a better future.The programme seeks to support individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to solving pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.
By becoming one of the 100 Young Leaders, you will not only be recognized globally but will also receive strategic support to amplify your work’s impact. If you are a young changemaker in the Commonwealth, this is your chance to gain recognition, support, and join a network of like-minded leaders committed to driving meaningful change.
Location:
United KingdomBenefits
- Selected young leaders will gain recognition and will receive their award at a formal awards ceremony.
- Awardees can also apply for microgrants to help expand and grow their initiatives or organizations.
- Similarly, participants will gain training, guidance, and mentorship to boost their leadership skills and organizational development.
- Winners will also receive international recognition through media coverage.
- Participants will have the opportunity to connect with funders, partners, and industry experts through both virtual and in-person events.
Eligibilities
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years of age at the time of applying (born between April 1990 and April 2008).
- They should be a founder, co-founder, or hold a significant leadership role in a social impact initiative.
- Candidates must be citizens or permanent residents of at least one of the 56 Commonwealth countries.
- Moreover, the initiative should show a measurable impact in the community or globally for at least 12 months.
- The project or organization must operate in a legal, transparent, and ethical manner, aligning with the values of QECT.
- Applications must be submitted in English to be considered.
Application Process
- Application Form: Complete the online application form available on the official QECT website.
- Supporting Documents: Gather necessary documents that showcase your initiative’s impact and your leadership role.
- Submit your completed application by Wednesday, 8th October 2025.
- Shortlisting: Applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted candidates will be notified.
- Finalists Announcement: Finalists will be announced in December 2025.
- Awards Ceremony: The awards ceremony will take place in April 2026
Application Deadline: October 8, 2025
Application ClosedOfficial link


