UK ONE Youth Ambassadors Programme 2026 | Prestigious Global Leadership Opportunity

The 2026 UK ONE Youth Ambassadors Programme is now open—offering one of the most prestigious volunteer leadership opportunities for young people committed to global development, climate action, economic justice, and social change.

This programme is designed for students and young professionals aged 18–35 who want to build strong advocacy skills, influence decision-makers, and join a global movement campaigning against extreme poverty and inequality.

About the UK ONE Youth Ambassadors Programme

Each year, The ONE Campaign selects a new cohort of Youth Ambassadors to lead advocacy on key issues, including:

• Global health and pandemic preparedness
• Climate and environmental justice
• Fair development finance
• Education and economic opportunity
• Equality and human rights

Ambassadors serve as public voices for these issues across the UK—creating campaigns, engaging the media, and interacting with policymakers.

Key Benefits of the 2026 Programme

1. World-Class Training & Skill Building

Selected ambassadors will receive high-quality training in:

• Designing high-impact advocacy campaigns
• Influencing policymakers and Members of Parliament
• Media engagement and social storytelling
• Public speaking and strategic communication

These skills significantly enhance your CV, LinkedIn profile, and applications for jobs, scholarships, and fellowships.

2. Networking with Global Change-Makers

Ambassadors join a dynamic community of:

• Peers across the UK
• Activists across Europe, Africa, and the US
• NGOs, civil society networks, and development leaders

This network often leads to opportunities such as internships, fellowships, career mentorship, and access to development-focused events.

3. High-Level Representation & Leadership Opportunities

As an ambassador, you may:

• Represent ONE at national or international events
• Participate in major campaigns and advocacy actions
• Engage directly with UK MPs and policymakers
• Contribute to major development activities like Africa Day and the UK Spring Development Conference

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Live in the UK for the duration of the programme
• Be 18–35 years old
• Commit a few hours weekly for meetings, campaigns, and advocacy tasks

Be available for key in-person events, including:

• Launch Residential
• Lobby Days in Parliament
• Africa Day Events (25–26 May 2026)
• Spring Development Conference
• Commit to at least 9 months (preference for 11–12 months)

No prior advocacy or policy experience is required—enthusiasm, curiosity, and a willingness to learn are highly valued.

What Ambassadors Will Do

Advocacy & Campaigns

• Raise awareness on development issues
• Support ONE’s digital and in-person campaigns
• Mobilise communities to take meaningful advocacy actions

Community & Media Engagement

• Create articles, social content, or campaign materials
• Speak at events
• Support organisation of local or online activities

Policy & Decision-Maker Engagement

• Meet Members of Parliament
• Contribute to UK development policy conversations
• Participate in national advocacy moments

How to Apply

Step 1: Review the Role Description

Read the official ONE Ambassador Role Description to understand expectations and responsibilities.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application

You will be asked to:

• Explain your motivation for applying
• Describe your skills, interests, and any relevant experience
• Share an example of a project or action you’re proud of
• Confirm you can commit to required activities and events

Step 3: Confirm Your 2026 Availability

Applicants must be able to:

• Live in the UK for the full programme
• Commit several hours weekly
• Attend 4–5 in-person events throughout the year

Step 4: Apply Before the Deadline