One Young World’s Leadership Networks are more than just programmes. They are dynamic communities of young leaders shaping the future of our world. Our Leadership Networks bring together young changemakers from across the world, providing opportunities to collaborate, learn, and amplify their impact.
The NewNow
Empowering systems-thinking leaders from the Global South
The NewNow, supported by Virgin Unite, is designed for the boldest emerging leaders who are redefining how change happens. By fostering systems-thinking and collective action, this programme equips 10 trailblazing young leaders annually with the tools to lead systemic change in their communities and beyond.
The programme is grounded in One Young World research on successful systems-based thinking, Indigenous Knowledge Systems, and the link between systems approaches and social impact.
The NewNow Founding Leaders:
- Abdalaziz Alhamza – Co-Founder/Spokesperson, Raqqa Is Being Slaughtered Silently
- Farwiza Farhan – Chairperson, Yayasan HAkA
- Roya Mahboob – CEO, Digital Citizen Fund
- Victor Ochen – Executive Director, AYINET & Global Advisor, UNHCR
- Jaha Dukureh – Co-Founder, Regenerative Hubs
- Uzodinma Iweala – CEO, The Africa Center
- Taylor Wilson – Nuclear Physicist; Founder, Prometheus & Talos
Together with One Young World and The NewNow, Virgin Unite is committed to empowering the next generation of young leaders as they begin their journey to create a brighter, more sustainable future.
Enterprising Futures Programme
Creating opportunities for young leaders in developing and fragile states
The Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs works to improve young people’s prospects by supporting local entrepreneurs, fostering job creation, and connecting young changemakers with global networks. Through the Enterprising Futures Programme, participants gain access to workshops, mentoring, pre-programme sessions, and speaking opportunities.
Thanks to our collaboration on the Enterprising Futures Scholarship together with One Young World, we were able to connect 40 young changemakers from the Sahel, Horn of Africa and MENA region to each other and to entrepreneurs from all over the world. Through the scholarship, One Young World and the Kingdom of the Netherlands aim to leverage the potential of young persons as widely as possible for job creation and highlight young people's potential as a solution to fostering prosperous societies.
Indigenous Council
Amplifying young Indigenous leaders globally
Launched in January 2024, the Indigenous Council ensures Indigenous young leaders are represented in One Young World’s initiatives. Council members provide guidance on culturally sensitive and impactful programming, review Indigenous-targeted scholarships, and helped deliver the first One Young World Indigenous Youth Day.
Indigenous Council Members:
Ahumuza Ignatius – Banyoro Tribe
Alexis Rubiel Alfaro Jiménez – Tojolabal
Amelia Kami – Pacific Islander
Diwigdi Valiente – Guna
Kananish McKenzie – Innu Nation of Matimekush Lac-John
Lisa Rapley – Gumbaynggirr
Martha Lidia Oxí Chuy – Maya Kaqchikel
Mathew Siliga Amituanai – Pacific Islander
Noor Azizah – Rohingya
Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts – Bundjalung Widubul-Wiabul
Winter Dawn Kent Lipscombe – Anishinaabe of Wauzhushk Onigum
By creating consistent, long-term partnerships and providing platforms for their voices to shape the agenda, One Young World can empower Indigenous youth as active agents of change in global conversations.
Universities Network
Fostering knowledge, collaboration, and global impact
Our Universities Network connects student leaders and academic institutions worldwide, offering opportunities for collaboration, peer learning, and access to the wider One Young World community. Through joint projects, mentorship, and leadership development, participants strengthen their capacity to drive positive change locally and globally.
United Way Network
Uniting changemakers to tackle social challenges
The United Way Network brings together young leaders committed to social impact. By connecting participants with resources, mentorship, and collaborative projects, the network empowers changemakers to address pressing societal challenges and make a tangible difference in their communities.