Deadline: February 24, 2026
Applications are open for the Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program 2026. Over the next decade, 1.2 billion young people are projected to reach working age in emerging markets — and if we don’t act now, there won’t be enough jobs for all of them. Jobs are a proven pathway to creating thriving, sustainable economies, and we need to build the capacity of young people today so they can adapt to the future of work.
The Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program is looking for its next cohort of global young changemakers to learn about and act on this challenge. Delivered by the World Bank’s Youth2Youth (Y2Y) community in partnership with Connect4Climate (C4C), the program carries forward the legacy of C4C champion Max Thabiso Edkins, who believed that youth inclusion is integral to shaping a resilient future. The fifth edition of this program presents an opportunity for global youth to deepen their knowledge of the world’s most urgent development challenges and work together to innovate responsive solutions.
Benefits
Young changemakers selected as 2026 Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassadors will have the chance to:
- Learn from World Bank Group experts and partners on priority sectors including energy, water, agribusiness, gender equality, health, tourism and digital innovation, with job creation at the center;
- Act to respond to pressing challenges in connection with the World Bank Group’s Health Works, Mission300, Empowering Women, and AgriConnect campaigns;
- Network with peers and professionals from relevant sectors and regions; and
- Engage by taking part in a global alumni community and accessing impactful collaboration opportunities throughout the program and beyond graduation.
Eligibility
To apply, you must be:
- 20-30 years old
- Studying, entering the job market, or forging a career in a relevant sector
- Interested in advancing sustainable growth for a livable planet in one or more of the following sectors: energy, water, agribusiness, gender equality, health, tourism, and digital innovation
- Curious, motivated, and eager to learn and grow
- Passionate about sustainability, green jobs, and the future of your community
- Committed to collaboration, collective action, and the exchange of diverse ideas and perspectives with peers from across the globe
Evaluation Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated on each of the following criteria:
- Academic/Professional Status: Currently studying, entering the job market, or building a career in a relevant field
- Sector Interest: Demonstrated interest in advancing sustainable growth for a livable planet in one or more of the following sectors: Energy, Water, Agribusiness, Gender Equality, Health, Tourism, and Digital Innovation
- Motivation & Mindset: Curious, motivated, and eager to learn and grow, regardless of background
- Sustainability Commitment: Strong interest in sustainability, green jobs, and the future of their communities
- Collaboration: Value collective action and the exchange of diverse ideas and perspectives with peers from around the world
Application
For more information, visit Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program.
