Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming industries across the world, and young Africans are increasingly leading innovations that solve real-world challenges. To support these changemakers, the Brandtech Group, in partnership with One Young World, has launched the Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship 2026.
The scholarship will select five outstanding young African leaders using AI responsibly to create social, environmental, health, economic, or educational impact. Successful applicants will receive a fully funded opportunity to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, while joining a global network of innovators and leaders.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Organization: Brandtech Group & One Young World
- Summit: One Young World Summit 2026
- Host Country: South Africa
- Location: Cape Town
- Summit Dates: 3–6 November 2026
- Number of Scholarships: 5
- Eligible Countries: All African countries
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Application Deadline: 2 August 2026
About the Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship
Artificial Intelligence is rapidly reshaping society by improving healthcare, education, governance, business, productivity, and environmental protection. However, AI also presents significant challenges, including misinformation, image-based abuse, increasing e-waste, and greenhouse gas emissions linked to AI infrastructure.
Recognizing both the opportunities and risks, Brandtech Group aims to empower young African innovators who are using AI ethically and responsibly to solve pressing problems across the continent.
Africa has the world’s fastest-growing youth population, yet remains behind in AI development and deployment. Through this scholarship, Brandtech Group seeks to elevate young leaders who are ensuring AI becomes a force for positive change rather than harm.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will receive a comprehensive fully funded package, including:
- Full participation in the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town (3–6 November 2026)
- Hotel accommodation from 2–6 November 2026
- Return economy airfare
- Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Ground transportation between summit venues
- Access to Pencil AI, Brandtech’s leading generative AI platform for brands
- Lifelong membership in the One Young World Ambassador Community
- Membership in the Brandtech AI for Good Alumni Network
- Access to the One Young World Action Accelerator
- Expert-led mentoring sessions
- Leadership development through the One Young World Global Kickstart Programme
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of the One Young World Summit 2026.
- Be nationals and residents of any African country.
- Have demonstrated leadership and commitment to promoting the responsible use of AI.
- Have a proven record of developing innovative AI solutions that create measurable impact.
- Be addressing one or more key social, economic, environmental, political, or health challenges using AI.
- Possess a good understanding of local and global issues.
- Be willing to actively engage with fellow scholars and Brandtech Group representatives during the Summit.
Age Exception
Applicants under 18 years old at the time of the Summit are not eligible.
Exceptional candidates above 30 years old may still be considered if they demonstrate outstanding impact, leadership, initiative, and willingness to contribute meaningfully to the programme.
Ideal Candidates
The scholarship particularly seeks young leaders who are using AI to:
- Improve healthcare delivery
- Enhance education and learning systems
- Address climate and environmental challenges
- Fight misinformation and online abuse
- Increase economic opportunities
- Promote sustainable development
- Solve community challenges through responsible AI innovation
Applicants whose work does not fall perfectly within these areas may still be considered if they demonstrate responsible and impactful AI use.
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Application Deadline
The deadline for submitting applications is:
2 August 2026.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the online application before the deadline. Applicants are encouraged to clearly demonstrate:
- Their leadership journey.
- Their AI innovation or project.
- The measurable impact of their work.
- Their commitment to ethical and responsible AI.
- How attending the One Young World Summit will strengthen their impact.
Only shortlisted candidates will proceed to the next stages of the selection process.
Conclusion
The Brandtech Group AI for Good Scholarship 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for young African innovators working at the intersection of artificial intelligence and social impact. Beyond attending one of the world’s leading youth leadership events, scholars will gain access to global mentors, AI tools, lifelong professional networks, and leadership development opportunities that can accelerate their work across Africa and beyond.
If you are building AI solutions that create positive change, this fully funded scholarship could be the platform to showcase your impact on the global stage.
