Working with Universities

Empowering student changemakers and amplifying university impact

We collaborate with universities because they are home to the emerging leaders who will shape our future. Through university partnerships for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we help students develop the values, skills, and global perspective needed to lead with integrity and drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

A platform to turn learning into leadership

The One Young World Universities Network is a global leadership network of leading universities committed to empowering student changemakers.

Each member institution selects 5-10 outstanding students each year to represent their university at the One Young World Summit.

These student leaders transform campus conversations into global impact when they return to campus as catalysts for change, supported by One Young World to build momentum across the wider student body.

How it works

Student selection process

Each university selects 5-10 outstanding students via an on-campus application or competition.

Students are chosen for their leadership potential and commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a core pillar of university partnerships for the SDGs. 

Summit Participation

Selected students take part in the full One Young World programme, including the annual Summit.

Students connect with a global network of young leaders from over 190 countries.

Campus Leadership

After the programme, they become One Young World University Ambassadors.

Ambassadors lead on-campus engagement, share insights, and drive peer-led initiatives.

Ongoing Support

One Young World provides year-round training, resources, and recognition to students and staff.

What Ambassadors say

One Young World is a unique opportunity to showcase how students at Bath are committed to driving positive change. I'm excited to collaborate with global leaders and contribute to tangible solutions to the world's most pressing issues.

Elliott, BSc Politics and International Relations, University of Bath

I am filled with gratitude to have been selected as one of the University's Delegates. I look forward to upholding our values on a global platform and building meaningful relationships that lead to real change.

Kiara, BSc Management, University of Bath

I was very proud to represent ESSEC at One Young World. Overall, attending the conference was a superb opportunity for my own personal development. It was an adventure of a lifetime and it did reignite my fire for supporting social change after meeting so many incredible people who are doing all these extraordinary things from all over the globe.

One Young World Ambassador, ESSEC Business School
Bath event group photo

Case Study: University of Bath

The University of Bath has been part of the One Young World Universities Network since 2013 – the longest-standing UK member.

Annual Impact

Each year, Bath sends a delegation of student leaders to the Summit and supports them to lead student global leadership programmes and SDG-focused initiatives on campus, a model example of university partnerships for SDGs in action.

Campus Impact Highlights:

  • Returning Delegates organise the annual One Young World Bath Forum, now in its ninth year
  • Attracts over 150 attendees annually
  • The 2025 Forum explored global issues including gender-based violence, the refugee crisis, and AI ethics
  • Features panels, workshops, and cultural performances, bringing together students, faculty, and external partners

What University Leaders Say

Our network includes leading institutions worldwide that share a commitment to empowering student changemakers.

The One Young World Summit brings together young leaders from across the world to not only hear and learn from influential international leaders, but also to network and share ideas with each other. As a global university Queen's is proud to be part of this prestigious Summit.

Alistair Stewart, Acting Director of Civic Engagement and Social Responsibility

As an internationally leading university with strengths in education and student outcomes we're proud of the unique relationship we have with One Young World.

Professor Julian Chaudhuri, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education & Global), University of Bath

Broadening university partnerships

National Taiwan University

Partnering with One Young World to deliver a summer internship programme, placing selected students at our London headquarters.

The University of Arizona

Co-hosted a two-and-a-half-day Expert Event on the Environment, including an immersive session at Biosphere 2.

Okayama University

Under President Nasu's leadership, co-developing SDG-focused content, including a publication aimed at student audiences.

Ready to join the network?

Contact our team to discuss how your institution can join this prestigious network and empower your students to become global changemakers.