Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program 2026: Apply Now for a Global Youth Leadership Opportunity

As the global workforce rapidly expands, the challenge of creating sustainable jobs for young people has never been more urgent. Over the next decade, an estimated 1.2 billion young people will reach working age in emerging markets—yet job creation is not keeping pace. Addressing this gap is critical to building inclusive economies, reducing poverty, and ensuring a livable planet for future generations.

The Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program 2026 offers young leaders from around the world a unique opportunity to build skills, expand networks, and contribute to innovative solutions at the intersection of youth employment, sustainability, and global development.

What Is the Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program?

The Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program is a global youth leadership initiative delivered by the World Bank Youth2Youth (Y2Y) Community, in partnership with Connect4Climate.

The program honors the legacy of Max Thabiso Edkins, a passionate advocate for youth inclusion who believed young people must play a central role in shaping resilient, sustainable futures. Now in its fifth edition, the program brings together diverse young changemakers to learn, collaborate, and act on some of the world’s most pressing development challenges.

What Selected Youth Ambassadors Will Gain

Young leaders selected as 2026 Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassadors will benefit from a rich, non-monetary capacity-building experience that includes:

1. Learn

Participants will engage with experts and partners from the World Bank Group across priority sectors, including:

• Energy

• Water

• Agribusiness

• Gender equality

• Health

• Tourism

• Digital innovation

All learning is grounded in one central goal: job creation for sustainable and inclusive growth.

2. Act

Ambassadors will contribute ideas and initiatives aligned with major World Bank Group campaigns, including:

• Health Works

• Mission300

• Empowering Women

• AgriConnect

3. Network

Participants will connect with:

• Like-minded youth leaders from across the globe

• Professionals working in development, climate action, and innovation

• Sector experts shaping global policy and practice

4. Engage Beyond the Program

Graduates join a vibrant global alumni network of 600+ former youth ambassadors, unlocking long-term collaboration and leadership opportunities well beyond the program’s completion.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

You are eligible to apply if you:

• Are 20–30 years old

• Are studying, entering the job market, or already building a career in a relevant sector

• Have a strong interest in sustainable development and green jobs

• Care about the future of your community and the planet

• Are motivated, curious, and eager to learn

• Are committed to collaboration and exchanging ideas across cultures and regions

• Have an interest in one or more of the following sectors:

  • Energy

  • Water

  • Agribusiness

  • Gender equality

  • Health

  • Tourism

  • Digital innovation

Application Deadline: February 24

Young changemakers from all regions of the world are encouraged to apply. If you are passionate about driving smart development solutions for a livable planet, this program is designed for you.

Apply by February 24 to be considered for the 2026 cohort.

Submit your application 

Important Notes for Applicants

• Use of AI tools: While AI may support background research, the use of AI or automated systems to generate application responses is strictly prohibited. Applications found to be AI-generated will be disqualified.

• Funding: This is a volunteer, non-monetary program focused on skills development, learning, and collaboration. No stipends or funding are provided.

• Ineligibility: Previous Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassadors and current World Bank Group employees are not eligible to apply.

Why This Program Matters

Creating sustainable jobs is one of the most effective ways to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity. By empowering young leaders with knowledge, networks, and platforms for action, the Max Thabiso Edkins Youth Ambassador Program helps turn bold ideas into real-world impact—locally and globally.

If you are ready to help shape the future of work, sustainability, and development, Submit your application  and become part of a global movement of youth driving change.

Source: https://www.connect4climate.org/apply-now-max-thabiso-edkins-youth-ambassador-program-2026