Deadline: October 8, 2025
Are you a young leader making a significant impact in your community? The QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026 is now open for applications, celebrating and supporting exceptional young leaders across the Commonwealth. This prestigious programme, organised by the Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT), will recognise 100 outstanding changemakers in honour of what would have been Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday in April 2026.
This is a unique opportunity for young innovators, founders, and social impact leaders to gain global recognition, funding support, and access to influential networks.
About the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026
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 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 recognised globally but will also receive strategic support to amplify your work’s impact.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026 is 8 October 2025. Early application is strongly encouraged to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: Must be between 18 and 35 years old, born between April 1990 and April 2008.
- Leadership Role: Must be the founder, co-founder, or hold a significant leadership position in a social impact initiative, enterprise, or organisation.
- Commonwealth Citizenship: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of a Commonwealth country (56 countries in total).
- Impact Record: Must have demonstrated measurable community or global impact for at least 12 months.
- Values & Compliance: Your organisation must operate legally, transparently, and align with the values of QECT.
- Language of Application: All applications must be submitted in English.
Benefits of the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026
Selected participants will gain access to a transformative package of opportunities, including:
- Global Recognition: Honoured at an official awards ceremony celebrating their work.
- Microgrants: Opportunity to apply for small-scale funding to expand or strengthen their initiatives.
- Capacity-Building & Mentorship: Tailored leadership support and organisational development.
- Media Exposure: Extensive media coverage to raise their profile internationally.
- Networking Opportunities: Exclusive access to virtual and/or in-person events, connecting with funders, partners, and global experts.
This comprehensive support ensures that awardees not only receive recognition but also gain the resources needed to sustain and grow their impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply for the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026 by completing the official online application form. Applicants should clearly demonstrate their leadership journey, measurable impact, and future vision for their initiative.
Click here to apply for the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards
Final Thoughts
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. 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.
Read more about the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards
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