For young activists and professionals leading sustainability projects, finding the resources to join a global stage is often a major hurdle. Moving from local impact to international influence requires more than just passion; it requires a platform that offers both mentorship and financial backing. Finding an opportunity that covers all costs for a world-class summit is a top goal for the next generation of global leaders.
Join our Telegram Channel for Instant Scholarship Updates
The 2026 ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship, in partnership with the International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) and One Young World, is a prestigious program designed to empower change-makers. By providing full funding to attend the summit in South Africa, ICMM ensures that brilliant young leaders—particularly those focused on biodiversity and decarbonization—can focus on global collaboration rather than travel costs. This scholarship acts as a professional Investment Strategy for a more sustainable and responsible world.
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | ICMM & One Young World |
| Target Audience | Young Leaders (Aged 18–35) |
| Primary Benefit | Fully Funded Trip to Cape Town, South Africa |
| Program Type | Global Leadership Summit |
| Summit Location | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Application Deadline | June 7, 2026 |
About the ICMM One Young World Initiative 2026
The ICMM One Young World Young Leaders Scholarship is more than just a trip; it is a gateway to the most impactful community of young leaders in the world. ICMM, representing the world’s leading mining and metals companies, seeks to identify individuals driving meaningful change in natural resource production and social performance. This initiative provides a rare look at how industry giants and young advocates can collaborate for a better planet.
In a landscape where Wealth Management is increasingly tied to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) goals, this scholarship prepares you to lead. Whether your focus is on community resilience or climate action, the program gives you the initial platform to grow your network. A unique feature of this award is the exclusive dialogue with the ICMM CEO, offering insights into high-level Strategic Management and responsible production.
Core Objectives of the ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship
- To identify and support young leaders driving positive change in biodiversity and decarbonization.
- To provide a global platform for voices advocating for responsible natural resource production.
- To foster lifelong leadership skills through the One Young World Ambassador Community.
Benefits of the ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship 2026
- Full Summit Funding: Covers all costs to participate in the One Young World Summit in Cape Town (Nov 3–6, 2026).
- Exclusive Access: Private dialogue session with the ICMM CEO on the sidelines of the summit.
- Ambassador Status: Receive lifelong membership in the One Young World Ambassador Community.
- Skill Development: Access to the Global Kickstart programme and the One Young World Action Accelerator.
- Mentorship: Expert-led mentor sessions to help turn your sustainability projects into a long-term Investment Strategy.
Eligibility Requirements for the ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship
- Age Limit: Applicants must be aged between 18 and 35 at the time of the November 2026 Summit.
- Proven Impact: You must be leading initiatives in at least one of these areas:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Decarbonization
- Responsible natural resource production
- Social performance (human rights, community resilience)
- Sustainability communication
- Engagement: A strong willingness to engage and collaborate with fellow scholarship recipients.
- Leadership: Demonstrated ability to drive meaningful change through your job or volunteer work.
- Travel: Ability to travel to Cape Town, South Africa, for the summit dates.
Why Sustainability is a Smart Investment Strategy
ICMM believes that the future of the mining and metals industry depends on the leadership of today’s youth. By funding your participation, they are helping you build a profile that is both impactful and professional. This focus on ethical leadership ensures that scholars are prepared for future roles in Financial Advisory, corporate social responsibility, and international policy.
Step-by-Step Application Guide for the ICMM Scholarship
Phase 1: Project Documentation and Evidence
- Gather proof of the impact of your projects, such as reports, media features, or data on decarbonization results.
- Update your professional profile to highlight your leadership in sustainability.
- Identify key metrics that show how your work is a successful Investment Strategy for your community.
Phase 2: Online Application Submission
- Visit the official One Young World website to access the ICMM scholarship application form.
- Fill out the form carefully, detailing your role and the specific impact of your initiative.
- Ensure your responses reflect a deep understanding of responsible resource production.
Phase 3: The Longlisting Process
- If you are longlisted, be prepared to submit additional documentation, such as professional references.
- You may be required to record a pitch video explaining your vision for sustainability.
- Prepare for a potential video call with representatives from ICMM and One Young World.
Phase 4: Selection and Preparation
- Successful applicants will be notified and briefed on travel and visa requirements for South Africa.
- Engage with the Global Kickstart programme online before the physical summit begins.
- Research the summit themes to make the most of your Financial Advisory and mentorship sessions.
Phase 5: Attending the Summit
- Travel to Cape Town from November 3–6, 2026.
- Participate in all sessions, accelerators, and the exclusive ICMM CEO dialogue.
- Begin your journey as a lifelong One Young World Ambassador.
Jamnet Expert Advice for the ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship
- Use the SMART Method: Be Specific about the tons of carbon saved or the number of people impacted by your social performance project.
- Apply the STAR Technique: In your application essays and pitch video, describe a Situation of environmental concern, the Task you undertook, the Action you led, and the measurable Result.
- Emphasis: Focus heavily on the intersection of “Mining/Resources” and “Sustainability.” ICMM wants to see how your work relates to responsible production.
- Proactive Tip: Since additional documentation like pitch videos may be required later, start brainstorming your video script now to show your confidence.
Deadline: June 7, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the 2026 ICMM Scholarship
- Do I need to work in the mining industry to apply? No, but you must lead projects related to biodiversity, decarbonization, or responsible natural resource use.
- Is there an application fee for this scholarship? No, applying for the ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship is completely free.
- What does “Full Funding” include? It typically covers summit access, travel to Cape Town, accommodation, and meals during the event.
- Can I apply if I am older than 35? The scholarship is strictly for young leaders aged 18 to 35 at the time of the summit.
- What is a “One Young World Ambassador”? It is a lifelong title given to summit delegates, providing ongoing access to a global network of change-makers.
- Will I need a visa for South Africa? If you are selected, the organizers will provide support documentation, but you are generally responsible for the visa application process.
- Is there a requirement for an IELTS score? There is no official requirement for an IELTS score, but you must be able to engage in a high-level dialogue in English.
- What happens during the “Action Accelerator”? It is a session designed to help you turn your summit inspiration into a concrete, fundable Investment Strategy for your local project.
- Can more than one person from the same project apply? Yes, but the scholarship is awarded on an individual basis.
- When is the final deadline? The application portal closes on June 7, 2026.
