The Queen Elizabeth II Commonwealth Trust (QECT) has launched a landmark initiative to commemorate what would have been Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s 100th birthday in April 2026. The QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards will honor 100 exceptional young changemakers from across the 56 Commonwealth countries. This program builds on the legacy of the Queen’s Young Leaders Awards, which inspired and celebrated young leaders worldwide, and aims to empower a new generation to further expand their impact.
By recognizing the outstanding work of young leaders across diverse regions, the QECT seeks to elevate their visibility on the global stage, connect them to new opportunities, and support them in amplifying their contributions to sustainable development and inclusive progress.
About the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards
This special award is designed to shine a spotlight on young leaders who are driving change in their communities, countries, and regions. The program will particularly recognize contributions across five key focus areas:
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Education and Employability
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Environment
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Food and Agriculture
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Health
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Inclusion
Through these areas, the award highlights the multifaceted work of young leaders addressing urgent global challenges, while empowering communities with innovative solutions.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Age: Must be 18 to 35 years old at the time of application (born between April 1990 and April 2008).
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Leadership Role: Applicants must be founders, co-founders, or hold a key leadership position within a social impact initiative.
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Citizenship/Residency: Applicants must be a citizen or permanent resident of one of the 56 Commonwealth countries.
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Track Record: Must demonstrate a minimum of 12 months of measurable community or global impact through their initiative.
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Ethical Standards: The initiative must operate legally, transparently, and in alignment with QECT values.
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Language: Applications must be submitted in English.
Benefits for Awardees
Winners of the QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards will receive comprehensive recognition and support to help them grow their impact. Benefits include:
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Award Recognition: Formal recognition during the official awards ceremony.
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Microgrant Opportunities: Eligible to apply for a microgrant to scale high-impact projects or organizations.
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Capacity Building: Access to tailored mentorship and leadership development programs, designed to strengthen organizational growth and sustainability.
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Global Visibility: Extensive media coverage and recognition, elevating awardees on an international platform.
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Networking Opportunities: Exclusive opportunities to connect with funders, partners, and experts through virtual and in-person events.
By offering these benefits, QECT ensures that awardees are not only celebrated but also equipped to sustain and scale their impact in meaningful ways.
Application Timeline
Applicants must adhere to the following key dates:
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Application Deadline: Wednesday, 8 October 2025
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Awards Ceremony: Details of the official ceremony will be shared with successful applicants.
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Programme Timeline: Subject to changes based on program developments.
It is recommended that applicants submit their materials early to ensure eligibility and avoid last-minute delays.
Why the Awards Matter
The QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards is more than a recognition program—it is a platform for empowerment. By identifying and celebrating young leaders across the Commonwealth, QECT ensures that diverse voices, talents, and initiatives are given the attention they deserve.
Key reasons why this program is vital:
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Global visibility: The awards place young changemakers in the spotlight, helping them attract resources and recognition.
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Sustainability of initiatives: By providing microgrant opportunities, QECT supports the continued growth of grassroots projects.
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Inclusive representation: The awards highlight leaders from all backgrounds and regions, reflecting the diversity of the Commonwealth.
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Legacy building: Honoring the memory of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the awards continue her legacy of championing young people and community leadership.
Partnership Opportunities
Organizations and companies are also invited to partner with QECT to support this prestigious initiative. By collaborating, partners can:
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Align with a globally respected initiative that champions young leaders.
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Enhance brand visibility on an international stage.
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Engage with changemakers shaping the future of their communities.
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Demonstrate leadership in corporate social responsibility and social impact.
Interested partners are encouraged to contact QECT to explore ways of supporting the initiative and empowering the next generation of leaders.
How to Apply
Young leaders who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply online before the deadline of October 8, 2025. Applications should detail:
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The applicant’s leadership role within the initiative.
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Evidence of measurable community or global impact.
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Alignment with QECT’s focus areas and values.
Apply now through the official portal: QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards Application
Conclusion
The QECT 100 Young Leaders Awards 2025 represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be recognized as part of a select group of changemakers from across the Commonwealth. By highlighting and empowering 100 inspirational leaders, the initiative strengthens global recognition for youth-driven innovation and social change.
With benefits including mentorship, funding, global visibility, and networking opportunities, this award is not only a recognition but also a stepping stone for young leaders to expand their vision and impact.
Deadline: October 8, 2025
Open to: Citizens or residents of Commonwealth countries aged 18–35
Focus Areas: Education, Employability, Environment, Food & Agriculture, Health, Inclusion
For more Information and Applications:
Visit HERE
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