Deadline: April 12, 2026
The AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026 is an exciting opportunity designed to support young leaders who are working to improve the health and wellbeing of young people around the world. This fellowship provides funding, mentorship, leadership training, and the opportunity to attend the global One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
Through the fellowship, selected young changemakers will gain access to financial support and global networks that will help them scale impactful initiatives focused on youth health and health equity.
The AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026 seeks to empower young leaders who are tackling pressing health challenges affecting underserved communities.
About the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026
The fellowship is part of the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme (YHP), a global initiative that aims to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among young people by addressing their key risk factors.
The programme supports youth-led organisations and initiatives that are committed to improving health outcomes for young people and building healthier communities.
Selected fellows will participate in a year-long fellowship experience that combines project funding, global exposure, and professional development. Fellows will also have the opportunity to present their work at the One Young World Summit 2026, one of the world’s largest gatherings of young leaders.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a wide range of benefits designed to strengthen their leadership capacity and expand the reach of their projects.
Fully Funded Participation in the One Young World Summit
Selected fellows will attend the One Young World Summit 2026, which will take place in Cape Town, South Africa from 3–6 November 2026.
The scholarship covers:
- Full access to the One Young World Summit 2026
- International travel to and from Cape Town
- Accommodation during the summit
- Catering and meals throughout the event
- Participation in networking sessions with global leaders and fellow changemakers
This experience offers fellows the opportunity to connect with a global community of young leaders working on social impact initiatives.
Project Funding
The fellowship provides financial support for selected projects that aim to improve youth health.
Funding includes:
- $10,000 grant for selected fellows to support their project implementation
- $50,000 grant awarded to the Lead2030 Challenge winner for SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing)
The funding will support the implementation of a 6–12 month project that addresses youth health challenges in underserved communities.
Professional Development Opportunities
Fellows will benefit from several learning and development opportunities designed to strengthen their leadership and organisational capacity.
These include:
- Access to the One Young World Academy (mini-MBA programme)
- Leadership and professional development training
- Mentorship and guidance from AstraZeneca experts
- Participation in workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions
These learning opportunities will equip fellows with the skills needed to expand the impact of their initiatives.
Global Networking Opportunities
Participants will join a global community of leaders through:
- The One Young World Ambassador Network
- The Young Health Programme Alumni Community
- Partnerships and collaborations with global health leaders and organisations
This network offers continued support and opportunities beyond the duration of the fellowship.
Focus Areas for Proposed Projects
Applicants are required to propose a 6–12 month project that addresses one of the following thematic areas.
1. Health Equity
Projects that aim to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among young people by addressing key risk factors such as:
- Tobacco use
- Physical inactivity
- Harmful alcohol consumption
- Unhealthy diets
- Air pollution
Initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles and equitable access to health resources are strongly encouraged.
2. Climate and Nature
Projects that focus on the relationship between environmental sustainability and youth health.
Examples include initiatives that address climate change, environmental degradation, or nature-based solutions that positively impact the health of young people.
3. Health Systems Resilience
Projects that strengthen health systems and improve youth-focused healthcare services, particularly in underserved or vulnerable communities.
Such initiatives may involve community health education, prevention strategies, or innovative approaches that improve access to healthcare.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements to be considered for the fellowship:
- Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old (exceptional applicants above 30 may still be considered based on impact).
- Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Applications are open to individuals from all countries worldwide.
- Applicants must be available to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa.
- Applicants must be leading or working with initiatives that support underserved communities.
Applicants should also demonstrate strong leadership potential and a clear commitment to improving youth health outcomes.
Project Requirements
Proposed projects must meet the following conditions:
- The project must run for 6–12 months.
- Implementation should take place between October 2026 and December 2027.
- The project must demonstrate measurable impact and clear outcomes.
- The initiative must be inclusive and non-discriminatory.
- The project should not receive more than 50% of its funding from another source.
Projects That Are Not Eligible
The fellowship will not support projects that:
- Promote political or religious agendas
- Provide medical treatment or distribute medicines
- Offer scholarships, tuition payments, or similar funding
- Extend beyond the 12-month implementation period
- Are primarily funded by another organisation
Applicants are encouraged to ensure their proposed projects align with the fellowship’s objectives before applying.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026 is:
12 April 2026
Interested applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline to be considered for this prestigious opportunity.
Final Thoughts
The AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for young leaders who are passionate about improving youth health and wellbeing.
Through funding, mentorship, leadership training, and participation in the One Young World Summit 2026, the fellowship empowers young changemakers to scale innovative solutions that address critical health challenges affecting young people worldwide.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can learn more about the programme and submit their applications using the links below.
If you need professional assistance with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact us for proposal drafting, refinning and review.
