Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship 2026 – One Young World Summit

Scholarship Description

The Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity for young African leaders who are using artificial intelligence to solve real-world challenges. In partnership with One Young World, the scholarship will select five incredible young leaders from Africa to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.

Artificial Intelligence is transforming every aspect of our lives — from healthcare and education to climate action and civic engagement. However, Africa, with the fastest growing youth population, is still behind in AI development and deployment. This scholarship seeks to identify and elevate young leaders who are driving the sustainable and responsible use of AI across the continent.

Scholarship Location

The scholarship covers attendance at the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, from 3 to 6 November 2026. Scholars will join thousands of young leaders from around the world to discuss pressing global issues and collaborate on solutions.

Scholarship Deadline

The application deadline is 2 August 2026.

Host Organizations

The scholarship is offered jointly by:

• The Brandtech Group – the world's #1 digital-only marketing group and leading generative AI marketing group.
• One Young World – a global community that brings together young leaders from every country and sector to drive positive change.

Focus Areas

Selected scholars will be leading initiatives with proven impact aligned with one or more of the following pillars:

• AI for Sustainability and Climate Action – Using AI to promote sustainability and tackle climate change.
• AI for Education – Addressing education access, improving learning systems, and increasing productivity.
• AI for Social Justice – Combating misinformation, online hate, and social harm while promoting social equity.
• AI for Health – Addressing health access, health inequality, and mental well-being.
• AI for Active Citizen Engagement – Using AI to engage citizens and strengthen democracy.

Target Group

The scholarship targets young African leaders aged 18 to 30 who are using AI to create positive change. Applicants must be:

• Nationals and residents of any African country
• Demonstrating capacity for leadership and promoting the responsible use of AI
• Track record of generating impactful and innovative solutions using AI
• Willing to engage with fellow scholarship recipients and Brandtech Group staff

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive:

• Access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town (3 – 6 November)
• Hotel accommodation in Cape Town (2 – 6 November inclusive)
• Return air travel to Cape Town
• Catering – breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Ground transportation between Summit venues
• Access to Pencil AI – the world's No. 1 generative AI SaaS platform for brands
• Lifelong membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community
• Brandtech AI for Good Alumni Network – join an exceptional network of alumni
• Action Accelerator – expert-led mentor sessions to turn inspiration into action
• Global Kickstart Programme – enhanced leadership skills and expertise on Summit themes

Scholarship Eligibility

Essential criteria:

• Age: 18 to 30 years old at the time of the One Young World Summit 2026. Candidates older than 30 may be considered pending demonstration of appropriate personal impact and initiative.
• Nationality: Nationals and residents of any African country.
• AI solutions: Demonstrated AI solutions in Africa with proven impact.
• Leadership: Demonstrated capacity for leadership and promoting responsible use of AI.
• Impact: Track record of generating impactful and innovative solutions using AI to address one or more of the five pillars.
• Engagement: Willingness to engage with fellow scholarship recipients and Brandtech Group staff.

Note: Applications from candidates whose causes may not exactly fit one of the five pillars will be considered if they are using AI positively and responsibly to drive their work.

Application Procedure

1. Visit the application portal – Go to the One Young World scholarship page for the Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship.
2. Review eligibility criteria – Ensure you meet all requirements: age, nationality, AI solutions, and leadership experience.
3. Prepare your application materials – You may be asked to provide:
   • Personal information and background
   • Details of your AI initiative and its impact
   • Leadership experience and track record
   • References (if longlisted)
   • Video pitch (if longlisted)
4. Submit your application – Complete the online application form by 2 August 2026.
5. Longlisting and additional documentation – If longlisted, you may be invited to submit references and a video pitch.
6. Selection – Five scholars will be selected by the Brandtech Group and One Young World.
7. Notification – Successful applicants are notified and prepare to attend the Summit.

Important notes: The One Young World Summit will explore how AI can power opportunities for the next generation and reshape the world of work. The Summit is one of five plenary challenges for this year's event in Cape Town.

Official Website & Application Link

Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship – Official Page

One Young World Website: www.oneyoungworld.com

Contact: For questions, visit the One Young World website or contact the scholarship team.