(Commonwealth_ In March 2025, a remarkable group of young individuals will receive support from the Commonwealth Secretariat as they are selected as the 20 finalists for the Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work. This prestigious initiative recognizes and celebrates young people who lead impactful and sustainable development projects within their communities.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards shine a spotlight on the dedication and innovation of young leaders striving to make a difference. The winners for this year’s awards will be announced on Wednesday, 12 March 2025, during a prestigious ceremony. For over a decade, this program has provided a platform for young changemakers, offering them access to international networks, funding, mentorship, and tools to scale their initiatives and expand their impact.
Empowering Young Leaders for a Sustainable Future
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, has emphasized the significance of these awards, particularly in the face of global challenges. She stated, “The world is facing unprecedented challenges. Celebrating and supporting those who can continue our work is one way to ensure its longevity. The Commonwealth Youth Awards celebrate the remarkable contributions made by our exemplary young people, who are the champions of values enshrined in our Charter. I am also incredibly grateful for those who see the value in our work and partner with us to help these young people flourish.”
The initiative acknowledges youth-led solutions to pressing development issues across various regions, ensuring that the next generation of leaders is equipped with the resources they need to succeed. By providing financial assistance, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the awards serve as a catalyst for transformative change in local and global communities.
Leveraging the Power of Partnerships
In February 2025, the 20 finalists will be announced, with the five regional winners being selected on 12 March 2025. Thanks to the generous contributions of various partners, each finalist will receive a grant of £1,000, a trophy, and a certificate in recognition of their outstanding work. The five regional winners will also receive an additional £2,000.
One finalist will be honored as the Commonwealth Young Person of the Year, receiving an additional £2,000 in funding. This recipient will also gain access to invaluable opportunities such as high-level networking events, mentorship programs, and training sessions designed to advance their impact on a broader scale.
A key component of this year’s awards is the support of the Khalili Foundation, which will present five PEACE awards to young leaders engaged in peace and development initiatives. Each of these awardees will receive £2,000 to acknowledge their exceptional work in fostering intercultural understanding and promoting peaceful coexistence. Further bolstering the awards, the Commonwealth Foundation has committed up to £30,000 in funding, ensuring that young changemakers receive the resources they need to continue their vital projects. Over the years, the Commonwealth Youth Awards have also received backing from esteemed organizations such as the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, reinforcing its mission to empower youth globally.
The Role of Partnerships in Driving Change
The Commonwealth Youth Programme has played a pivotal role in nurturing the talents and initiatives of young leaders across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, and the Americas. Through flexible funding, practical tools, mentorship, and an engaged network, the awards empower young innovators to transform their communities and inspire others to follow suit.
Collaborations with like-minded organizations have been instrumental in fueling the work of the Commonwealth Secretariat. The Commonwealth Youth Awards exemplify the power of such partnerships, with the Khalili Foundation and the Commonwealth Foundation joining forces this year to elevate the achievements of finalists across different continents.
