Deadline: March 26, 2026
The We Are Family Foundation’s Three Dot Dash Program: Global Teen Leader 2026 is a prestigious global leadership initiative designed to identify, support, and elevate exceptional young changemakers who are already making measurable impact in their communities.
Organised by the We Are Family Foundation, this programme brings together inspiring teenagers from across the world to collaborate, grow, and accelerate their work towards building a more sustainable and equitable future.
If you are a young leader working on environmental or climate-related solutions, the We Are Family Foundation’s Three Dot Dash Program: Global Teen Leader 2026 offers a powerful platform to amplify your impact on a global scale.
Programme Overview
The Three Dot Dash Program selects outstanding individuals aged 13 to 19 years who are actively leading initiatives that address critical global challenges.
Successful applicants are recognised as Global Teen Leaders (GTLs) and gain access to a year-long leadership development experience that combines mentorship, training, and international exposure.
A key highlight of the programme is participation in the Just Peace Summit in London, where selected leaders convene to exchange ideas, showcase their work, and collaborate on solutions that promote peace, justice, and sustainability.
The initiative is rooted in the belief that young people are not just future leaders but present-day changemakers capable of driving meaningful transformation.
Benefits of the Programme
Being selected as a Global Teen Leader comes with a wide range of fully funded opportunities and long-term benefits.
✈️ Fully Funded International Travel
Participants will attend the Just Peace Summit in London (September/October 2026) with all major expenses covered, including:
- International flights or train travel
- Visa application fees
- Accommodation
- Meals throughout the programme
- Local transportation within London
This ensures that financial constraints do not prevent talented young leaders from participating.
🧠 Mentorship and Leadership Development
A core component of the programme is its one-year mentorship experience, where each participant is paired with an expert aligned with their field of work.
Additional benefits include:
- Structured leadership training sessions
- Personal and professional development workshops
- Access to year-round virtual learning opportunities
- Guidance on scaling and sustaining impact projects
This mentorship is designed to strengthen both the vision and execution of participants’ initiatives.
Access to a Global Network
Participants become part of an influential global network of changemakers spanning over 75 countries.
This network provides:
- Opportunities for international collaboration
- Peer-to-peer learning and support
- Increased visibility for ongoing projects
- Lifelong connections with like-minded leaders
The relationships built through this network often extend far beyond the duration of the programme.
Focus Area for 2026
For the 2026 cohort, the programme places a strong emphasis on:
Environmental Sustainability
Climate Change Solutions
Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their work contributes to addressing environmental challenges or promoting climate resilience.
However, interdisciplinary projects are also encouraged, particularly those that intersect with:
- Education
- Technology and innovation
- Social justice
- Public health
- Cultural and community development
- Equity and inclusion
This broad approach allows for diverse solutions that tackle climate issues from multiple angles.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the We Are Family Foundation’s Three Dot Dash Program: Global Teen Leader 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be between 13 and 19 years old in 2026
- Be actively leading an existing project or initiative
- Demonstrate clear and measurable impact
- Focus on environmental sustainability or climate-related work
- Show commitment to continuing the project for at least two more years
Important Requirement
Applicants must already have a running project.
The programme does not accept ideas at concept stage—your initiative must be active and producing tangible results.
Application Process
The application process is structured in multiple stages to ensure that the most impactful and committed candidates are selected.
Stage 1: Pre-Application
- Initial screening stage
- Basic information about the applicant and their project
Stage 2: Main Application
- Detailed responses about the project
- Impact metrics and long-term vision
- Leadership experience and motivation
Stage 3: Nominator Form
- A supporting reference from a mentor, teacher, or professional contact
- Validation of the applicant’s work and character
Final Stages
Shortlisted candidates proceed through:
- Internal review
- External evaluation
- Final interviews
Only the most outstanding candidates are selected as Global Teen Leaders.
Key Dates
Applicants should carefully note the following timeline:
- Applications Open: 19 February 2026
- Pre-Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
- Main Application Deadline: 2 April 2026
- Final Selection Announcement: June 2026
Early preparation is strongly recommended due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Important Notes
Before applying, candidates should take note of the following:
- This programme is not a financial grant or scholarship
- Participation is completely free of charge
- Travel and participation costs are fully covered
- Visa support is provided, but approval is not guaranteed
Applicants are encouraged to ensure they meet travel requirements for the United Kingdom.
Why You Should Apply
The We Are Family Foundation’s Three Dot Dash Program: Global Teen Leader 2026 is more than just a leadership programme—it is a launchpad for young innovators committed to making a difference.
Key advantages include:
- Global recognition for your work
- Expert mentorship tailored to your project
- International exposure through the summit
- Enhanced leadership and communication skills
- Access to a lifelong global network
For young individuals already taking action, this programme provides the tools, connections, and visibility needed to scale impact effectively.
Final Thoughts
The We Are Family Foundation’s Three Dot Dash Program: Global Teen Leader 2026 stands out as one of the most competitive and impactful opportunities available to young leaders worldwide.
If you are already driving change in your community—especially within environmental or climate-focused areas—this is your chance to connect with a global movement of passionate changemakers.
Preparation, clarity of impact, and authenticity will be key to a strong application.
Application Links
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