Apply for Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded to Attend the One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa

Application Deadline: August 2, 2026

About the Scholarship

Applications are now open for the 2026 Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship, an exciting and highly competitive initiative developed through a partnership between The Brandtech Group and One Young World. Building on the tremendous success and impact of the program over the past two years, this scholarship aims to identify and elevate five exceptional young African leaders who are passionate about leveraging artificial intelligence in ways that promote sustainability, ethical practices, and positive social change. The program recognizes the transformative potential of AI to address some of the most pressing global challenges, and it seeks to empower young innovators to be at the forefront of this movement. The AI for Good Scholarship is part of a broader agenda within the upcoming One Young Summit in Cape Town, where artificial intelligence has been designated as one of the five main plenary challenges. This highlights the critical importance of AI in shaping the future of work, society, and the environment. During the summit, participants including the scholarship recipients—will engage in dynamic discussions, workshops, and collaborative activities focused on exploring how AI can serve as a powerful tool to create opportunities for the next generation. They will examine how AI can reshape industries, improve quality of life, and foster inclusive growth, while also confronting potential risks and ethical dilemmas associated with its deployment.

The scholarship provides a unique platform for young African leaders to showcase their innovative ideas, gain mentorship from global experts, and connect with a diverse network of changemakers and industry pioneers. It offers opportunities for capacity-building, leadership development, and practical engagement with AI-driven projects that have the potential to generate meaningful social impact. By focusing on responsible AI use, the program encourages participants to develop solutions that prioritize human rights, inclusivity, and environmental sustainability. Ultimately, the goal is to empower these emerging leaders to drive positive change within their communities, influence policy, and contribute to building an AI-driven future that is equitable, ethical, and beneficial for all.

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Young leaders aged 18 to 30 at the time of the One Young World Summit 2026 (3–6 November)
• Nationals and residents of any African country with demonstrated AI solutions in Africa
• Demonstrated capacity for leadership and promoting the responsible use of AI
• Track record of generating impactful and innovative solutions using AI to address one or more of the five pillars below
• Understanding of key local and/or global issues
• Willingness to engage with fellow scholarship recipients and Brandtech Group staff/management who are also attending the Summit

Selected scholars will be leading initiatives with proven impact aligned with one or more of the below pillars:

• AI as a tool to promote sustainability and tackle climate change
• AI to address education access, improve learning systems, and increase productivity
• AI as a tool to combat misinformation, online hate, social harm, and promote social equity
• AI as a tool to address health access, health inequality, and mental well-being
• AI for active citizen engagement

Note: Applications from candidates whose causes may not exactly fit one of the five pillars will be considered if they are using AI positively and responsibly to drive their work.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected The Brandtech Group AI For Good Scholars will receive:

• Access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town from 3–6 November
• Hotel accommodation in Cape Town between 2 and 6 November (inclusive)
• Return air travel
• Catering, which includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Ground transportation between Summit venues in Cape Town
• Access to Pencil AI – the world’s No. 1 generative AI SaaS platform for brands
• Lifelong membership of the One Young World Ambassador Community
• Membership in the exceptional Brandtech AI for Good Alumni network
• Access to the One Young World Action Accelerator and expert-led mentor sessions to help turn their inspiration into action
• Access to the One Young World Global Kickstart programme designed to provide delegates with enhanced leadership skills and principles alongside expertise around the Summit’s main themes

How to Apply

Application Link: Click here to apply

For More Information: Visit the Official Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship Page