How to get the scholarship to attend the biggest youth summit in Canada for free?

If I were still a student at XAMK, there is at least one conference that I would try to get to. One Young World Summit, especially because it is hosted in Canada this year. Imagine this: the crisp air of Montreal in September, from the 18th to the 21st, buzzing with the energy of over 2000 young leaders flown in from every corner of the globe. I get goosebumps while writing as I remember similar conference mornings and excitement that filled me from top to bottom.

Are you a leader? Are you into climate change, health, gender equality or AI? Would you like to meet thought leaders, policy makers and peers working on innovative solutions to bring a social impact?

For whom: for young leaders everywhere, and especially for those from XAMK, this is the call to action. Scholarships are thrown open, almost universally across nationalities, inviting you to step into a world where your voice matters, where your actions can ripple across the waters of change.

The annual One Young World Summit in Montreal will bring together over 2,000 of the brightest young leaders from all countries and sectors who are working to bring about positive change. At the forum, delegates participate in four transformative days of speeches, panels, networking and workshops.
Good news, XAMK students can also get there by applying through one of the scholarships available.

The annual summit in Montreal promises more than just speeches and panels; it’s four days that could reshape your understanding of what it means to effect change. You’ll dive into workshops tailored to arm you with the tools for impact, listen to voices that have echoed through halls of power, and share spaces with peers and policymakers who see the world not just for what it is, but for what it could be. This event is a melting pot of ideas, where you’ll experience firsthand transformative speeches, in-depth panels, and tailored workshops designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills to drive social impact. Plus, with extensive networking sessions, you’ll connect with peers and industry leaders across various sectors, opening doors to global collaborations.

The process of application is as simple as that: first, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, which include being between the ages of 18-30, having a commitment to positive change, leadership capacity, a track record of impactful ideas, and being a national of a listed European country or other nationality. Next, prepare your application to highlight your leadership experience, social impact initiatives, and innovative ideas. Then, submit your application by the deadline. If shortlisted, you’ll be contacted by mid-May 2024 for further steps. Remember, the scholarship covers Summit access, accommodation, meals, and travel costs, but you will need to cover your visa fees and related expenses if required. This is a chance to gain visibility, connect with global leaders, and join a network of young changemakers.

How to write a good application: Begin with an engaging introduction that presents who you are, your current role, and your field of interest. Quickly segue into why you’re drawn to this specific scholarship and event, aligning your personal ambitions with the opportunity at hand. Next, delve into your personal mission and core beliefs, demonstrating how these propel your dedication to your field. This section should paint a picture of your passion and how it aligns with the program’s goals. Highlight your achievements and contributions. Mention projects or activities you’ve done, their outcomes, and the skills you’ve developed. This isn’t just about listing your successes; it’s about showing the impact you’ve made. Discuss your willingness to share knowledge and learn from others, emphasizing your enthusiasm for engaging with peers and industry leaders at the event. This illustrates your collaborative spirit and eagerness for communal growth. Explain why this scholarship matters to you, linking the event to both your professional and personal development. Share which aspects of the event excite you and how you plan to contribute and gain from the experience.

---

Audi Environmental Foundation Scholarship 2024

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, all nationalities

⏰ Deadline: March 17

This scholarship is intended for young leaders driving change and tackling the climate crisis through innovative new technologies, the advancement of climate education, or the preservation of ecosystems through halting or reversing land degradation.

There are 15 spots for scholars!

Apply now

---

Z Zurich Foundation Scholarship 2024

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, leadership, fluent English

⏰ Deadline: March 20

This scholarship supports leaders who are having an impact in the following areas:

• Improving Mental Wellbeing
• Enabling Social Equity
• Adapting to Climate Change

You will also get access to additional scholarship programming organised by Z Zurich Foundation.

Apply now

---

bp Net Zero Scholarship 2024

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, all nationalities

⏰ Deadline: April 1

They seek and prioritise applicants who are making an impact in at least one of the following areas:

• Advocating for progressive climate policies
• Enhancing current low carbon energy technologies such as solar and wind
• Improving access to low carbon energy
• Innovating to reduce emissions in households, cities and industries

Apply now

---

Building Tomorrow Scholarship 2024

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, proven impact

⏰ Deadline: April 7

For people making a positive impact in one of the scholarship’s three focus areas:

• Deploying AI technologies for sustainable construction
• Employing AI solutions for urban resilience
• Responsible deployment of artificial intelligence in urban development

In addition, scholars will receive a unique opportunity to join the Holcim community.

Apply now

---

Leading Europe Scholarship 2024

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, European citizens (+ Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, UK)

⏰ Deadline: April 9

This opportunity fits you in the case:

• You have an evidenced commitment to delivering positive change
• Demonstrate capacity for leadership
• Is addressing key local and/or global issues in your work
• Have a track record of generating impactful and innovative ideas 

Priority will be given to applicants from countries that have been less represented at previous One Young World Summits.

Apply now

---

Leading Asia Scholarship 2024

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, Asia citizens

⏰ Deadline: April 9

This opportunity fits you in case:

• You have an evidenced commitment to delivering positive change
• Demonstrate capacity for leadership
• Is addressing key local and/or global issues in your work
• Have a track record of generating impactful and innovative ideas 

Priority will be given to applicants from countries that have been less represented at previous One Young World Summits.

Apply now

---

Eureka Fellowship for Youth Changemakers

Requirements: age from 18 to 30, living and making an impact in Canada (not have to be a citizen)

⏰ Deadline: April 23

Show proven impact in one of the following sustainability areas of focus:

• Access to healthcare and health equity
• Environmental protection and climate action 
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion

You will get access to additional scholarship programming, workshops, and special events, including networking opportunities with other AstraZeneca Canada and Plan International Canada delegates.

Apply now

---

Please, visit other articles I shared on the topic to learn more about opportunities for everyone who is interested in developing themselves in the field of sustainable development. 

1. Elevate Your Resume with these 8 Citizen-Science Driven Online Initiatives
2. One climate change network that you should join to build a career on the international level 
3. Your chance to get the practical training completed
4. March edition of career opportunities: internships, volunteering and grants

Xamk is involved in Talent Boost work, aiming to advance employment and attachment of international talents to Finland. For more information, do not hesitate to contact talentboost(at)xamk.fi.

Daria Chekalskaia,
Production Assistant of Edufication.com and Environmental Engineer