QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards

In commemoration of what would have been Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday in April 2026, the Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT) has launched a special initiative to recognise 100 inspirational Young Leaders from across the Commonwealth. Building on the legacy of the Queen's Young Leaders programme, this new award will celebrate exceptional individuals from diverse regions, representing QECT’s five key focus areas: education and employability, environment, food and agriculture, health, and inclusion. This initiative aims to elevate the profiles of these Young Leaders globally, empowering them to further amplify their social impact within their communities, countries, and regions.

Eligibility

To be eligible for The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust’s 100 Young Leaders Awards, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

    • Age: 18 to 35 years old at the time of application (born between April 1990 and April 2008).
    • Leadership Role: Must be the founder, co-founder, or in a key leadership position of a social impact initiative.
    • Citizenship/Residency: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of at-least one of the 56 Commonwealth countries.
    • Track Record: Demonstrate measurable community or global impact for a minimum of 12 months.
    • Ethical Standing: The initiative must operate legally, transparently, and in accordance with the values of QECT.
    • Language: Applications must be submitted in English.

Areas of Focus

Education and Employability

Environment

Food & Agriculture

Health

Inclusion

Apply Now

Deadline to Submit Applications: Wednesday, 8th October 2025

What do young awardees receive

The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust’s 100 Young Leaders Awards seeks to enhance the global visibility of emerging leaders, enabling them to expand their societal contributions while fostering sustainable development within their respective communities. The awardees will receive:

  • Award Recognition: Winners will receive their award at the official awards ceremony.
  • Microgrant: A chance to apply for a microgrant to scale their high-impact projects or organisations.
  • Capacity Building: Tailored capacity-building and mentorship to strengthen leadership and organisational growth.
  • Global Platform: Global recognition for awardees through widespread media coverage, marking an important milestone in QECT's history.
  • Networking: Opportunities to connect with funders, partners, and field experts through virtual and/or in-person events.

Timeline

Note: Please note that the timeline may vary subject to changes in the programme

Join Us & Make an Impact

Align your company/organization with a prestigious global initiative, empowering young leaders and championing social impact on an international stage.

Enhance your brand’s global visibility
Engage with the next generation of changemakers
Demonstrate leadership in corporate social responsibility

Let’s create lasting change together.

We are open to discuss this initiative with you and develop the best possible way to partner. Please feel free to email our team by clicking on partner with us.

Partner with us

If you are a young leader working in your community in one of the 56 Commonwealth countries and have a clear vision for change, demonstrated commitment to community and evidence of impact, then refer to our eligibility criteria and apply for The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT) 100 Young Leaders Awards 2026.

Apply Now

Deadline to Submit Applications: Wednesday, 8th October 2025