Partner Update

What will it take to achieve food security for all?

Agriculture lies at the heart of global food security, yet the world is still far from ensuring that everyone has enough to eat. According to the most recent United Nations data, between 713 million and 757 million people were undernourished in 2023, that’s roughly 1 in 11 people globally, and 1 in 5 in Africa.

How can AI power opportunity for the next generation?

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the world of work, offering both challenges and opportunities for the next generation. According to the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs analysis, AI and related technologies could lead to the creation of 170 million new jobs globally by 2030, while displacing an estimated 92 million roles

How do we prevent the physical, sexual, and mental abuse of women and girls?

According to a 2025 United Nations report,
around 50,000 women and girls were killed by intimate partners or 
family members in 2024, which equates to an average of 137 victims every day.

How do we make this the 'African Century'?

Africa stands at a pivotal moment where its demographic dynamism and economic potential could define the African Century. The continent’s working-age population is rapidly expanding; by 2043 Africa’s labour force is expected to nearly double from current levels, making youth employment creation critical for sustained growth.

How can young leaders restore diplomacy to end the cycle of violence?

Peace and security remain central challenges in a world where violence and conflict affect millions, especially young people. Today’s generation is the largest in history, with over 1.2 billion individuals aged 15–24, and in regions like Africa around 60% of the population is under 25.

15 October 2026

How to prepare for Cape Town

We are reaching out today as we would like to invite all your selected delegates to the sixth session of our pre-summit series, the #OYW26 Kickstart Series.

This final session titled How to prepare for Cape Town will cover key cultural insights and practical information to help Delegates make the most of the One Young World Summit in Cape Town. This session will include networking opportunities, logistical information, and a chance to answer any final questions! 
 

28 May 2026

The series begins here. This is the main pre-Summit launch touchpoint and sets the tone for the rest of the learning journey before Cape Town. Delegates will explore: 

• What is the Global Leadership Charter?
• How to build leadership principles with the One Young World Ambassador Community

Two live options are available so delegates can join at the time that works best for them.

24 June 2026

Momentum builds after launch and keeps delegates engaged once the first session has landed. Delegates will look at: 

• What are the plenary challenges
• Understanding One Young World with Kate Robertson
• Explore intersectionality in social impact with our Ambassadors
   

30 July 2026

This interactive session will explore how building meaningful connections can become a powerful leadership skill. Through self-reflection and peer discussions, Delegates will:

• Identify their communication strengths
• Learn how to build authentic and trusting relationships across cultures
• Develop practical tools to communicate with greater clarity, confidence, and kindness

26 August 2026

A useful check-in once logistics and internal planning start to feel more real.

18 to 26 September 2026

This session will introduce Delegates to the Community and connect them with other young leaders from their regions. Our Managing and Coordinating Ambassadors will be the hosts, sharing their unique insights into the Summit and what to expect as Delegates prepare to become One Young World Ambassadors. Sessions have been shared with Delegates, and look like the following:

Africa and the Middle East | 18 September 12.00 - 13.00 GMT 
Latin America and the Caribbean | 19 September 15.00 - 16.00 GMT 
Europe | 21 September 13.00 - 14.00 GMT 
Canada and USA | 22 September 17.00 - 18.00 GMT 
Asia | 26 September 8.30 - 9.30 GMT .

Delegates based in our Australia, New Zealand and Pacific Island Nations region, will receive direct communication from our regional team around your session in the coming week. 

The Opening Ceremony in 2026 will take place at an iconic venue in Cape Town, the Green Point Athletic Stadium. It will serve as the perfect stage to showcase the talent and diversity of the One Young World Community.

The Closing Ceremony will be at the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa and a key landmark in Cape Town’s early history.

Our Delegates, VIPS, and attendees will spend a transformative three days at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, Africa’s leading convention centre located in the heart of Cape Town, playing host to a series of presentations, panels, workshops and networking events.

The evening social programmes will take place at Cabo Beach Club on 4 November and Oranjezicht Market on 5 November, showcasing the best of Cape Town.