Imagine: you are in the stadium with thousands of young leaders from every country on Earth, all united by one goal — to make the world better. Imagine that boundless energy, that deep drive, that fascinating sense of possibility. That’s what it feels like to be a part of One Young World (OYW).
OYW is a global organization based in London that empowers young leaders to build a fairer, more sustainable world by supporting them in creating meaningful societal change. Its landmark event is the annual Summit, which brings together around 2,000 delegates from every corner of the globe to participate in a 4-day transformative experience of networking with fellow changemakers, attending plenary challenges panels, and accessing all OYW opportunities as OYW Ambassadors after the Summit.
The speakers are influential world figures, including UN representatives, politicians, seasoned CEOs, and young NGO leaders, who share their wisdom with attendees through keynote speeches. This year, Queen Rania Al Abdullah, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Ressa, and Sir Bob Geldof, among many other Counsellors, joined this year’s Summit, recognizing that youth leadership defines our shared tomorrow right now. Inspired by the Olympic spirit and Nelson Mandela’s ideals, OYW has evolved into a network of over 20,000 young leaders across every industry, whose projects have already positively impacted the lives of more than 58 million people.
My journey to this community began with encouragement from my friend and OYW Ambassador, Zoya Miari, who inspired me to apply for the Leading Ukraine Scholarship. Thanks to this opportunity, supported by the Government of Croatia and One Young World, I had the pleasure of joining the Ukrainian delegation at the 2025 Summit in Munich. The Summit’s focus was on peace, education, circular economy, anti-hate, and AI. For four days, I listened, learned, and shared ideas with peers who are transforming their communities. I heard stories of water scarcity in Pakistan, wildfires in Argentina, gender-based violence in Latin America, and limited access to education in Africa. The testimonies of Holocaust and atomic bomb survivors moved me deeply, while Maria Ressa’s call for courage and truth ignited hope. In this space, it is impossible not to feel part of something larger than oneself.
Education became my primary focus. I learned from UNICEF’s Thomas Davin about how AI could revolutionize learning and certification, presented my group’s findings during the Global Mentorship Movement workshop on educating girls in Africa, and joined an inspiring discussion with Ambassador Irena Andrassy as part of our Ukrainian delegation. Each encounter taught me that change doesn’t start with grand gestures — it begins with consistent, curious, and connected action.
No matter what your passion — justice, entrepreneurship, education, equality, peace, or climate — One Young World can be your next most inspiring step. Each year, OYW offers scholarships to enable outstanding young leaders to attend, regardless of their background.
The world needs young leaders who act with integrity and compassion. You are already making a difference in your community, so I encourage you to explore One Young World and join this network of changemakers. You’ll come away not only inspired but transformed, with a global perspective, new friendships, and a renewed sense of purpose.
We are One. And the future begins with us. 💙💛
Author: Sofiia Sokol (UGS ’23, Godolphin School ’26)
