ICMM 2026 Young Leaders Scholarship to Attend One Young World Summit (South Africa)
The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) has opened applications for the 2026 ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship in partnership with One Young World.
The scholarship programme will support five young leaders to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 scheduled to take place in Cape Town, South Africa, from November 3 to November 6, 2026.
According to ICMM, the initiative is aimed at supporting the next generation of global leaders while encouraging more young people to explore opportunities within the mining and metals sector.
Selected participants will have the opportunity to meet industry leaders, attend workshops, engage in discussions on global challenges, and connect with other young leaders from different countries around the world.
The One Young World Summit is one of the world’s largest gatherings for young leaders, bringing together delegates from governments, private organisations, non-profit groups, and businesses to discuss solutions to major global issues.
ICMM said scholars attending the summit will gain exposure to conversations around leadership, sustainability, economic growth, responsible mining, climate action, innovation, and community development.
Speaking on the scholarship programme, ICMM President and Chief Executive Officer, Rohitesh Dhawan, said the future of mining depends on attracting talented young leaders into the sector.
According to him, the world’s growing demand for minerals and metals means the industry needs more professionals who can help improve mining practices and create long-term impact.
“The world needs more mining and demands better mining. That means attracting exceptional talent into the sector, including those who may have never considered it before,” Dhawan said.
He added that mining remains one of the few sectors with strong long-term growth opportunities and the potential to contribute meaningfully to global development.
Dhawan also said ICMM is proud to support young scholars attending the summit because empowering future leaders is important for the future success of the industry.
“One Young World has put mining prominently on the agenda for the first time. Inspiring and equipping the next generation isn’t optional for our sector – it’s what will define its future success,” he added.
Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of One Young World, Kate Robertson, also spoke on the importance of helping young leaders understand industries that shape economies and societies.
According to her, the mining sector remains one of Africa’s major economic drivers and plays a significant role in development across many countries.
Robertson said One Young World wants young leaders from different sectors and countries to better understand how industries like mining operate and how they can evolve responsibly.
“The mining sector is the economic spine of Africa and One Young World is determined to ensure that it is thoroughly understood by young leaders from every country in the world,” she said.
She added that stronger understanding and collaboration between future business leaders, governments, labour unions, and communities will benefit both Africa and the global economy.
Benefits of the Scholarship
According to the organisers, selected scholars will receive support to participate fully in the summit and become part of the wider One Young World network after the programme.
Benefits of the scholarship include:
- Access to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town
- Opportunities to participate in leadership sessions and workshops
- Networking opportunities with global leaders and young changemakers
- Exposure to discussions on sustainability, economic growth, and responsible mining
- Access to the One Young World Ambassador network after the summit
- Continued collaboration and support opportunities through the global community
ICMM noted that scholars who complete the programme will become One Young World Ambassadors, giving them long-term access to leadership resources, partnerships, and opportunities to collaborate on projects with other young leaders around the world.
The summit itself is designed to help participants strengthen leadership skills, exchange ideas, and build partnerships that can help solve major social and economic challenges.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the ICMM Young Leaders Scholarship 2026, applicants must:
- Be between the ages of 18 and 35
- Demonstrate leadership potential
- Show commitment to creating positive impact in their communities, industries, or organisations
The organisers encouraged young people from different academic and professional backgrounds to apply for the programme.
Applications are currently ongoing and interested candidates are expected to complete their submissions before the deadline.
Application Deadline
ICMM stated that applications for the scholarship will close on June 7, 2026.
Interested applicants can apply through the official scholarship portal below:
About ICMM
ICMM is a global organisation focused on improving standards across the mining and metals industry. The organisation works with companies and partners to promote responsible mining, improve workplace safety, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen transparency and accountability within the sector.
About One Young World
One Young World is an international organisation that identifies, supports, and connects young leaders from around the world through summits, scholarships, leadership programmes, and global networking opportunities.
The organisation provides platforms for young leaders to share ideas, increase their social impact, and collaborate on solutions to major global challenges affecting communities worldwide.
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