The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship 2024, a prestigious program aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial talent across Commonwealth countries, is now open for applications. The fellowship offers young innovators a unique platform to refine their startup ideas, receive expert guidance, and connect with a global network of entrepreneurs and investors.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is open to individuals who meet the following criteria:

  • Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country.
  • Age: Candidates should be between 18 and 35 years old.
  • Startup Idea: Applicants must present a startup idea that addresses a pressing social or economic challenge within their home country.
  • Language: Fluency in English is required.

The program seeks to attract innovative minds passionate about creating solutions to improve their communities and economies.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive package of support designed to enhance their entrepreneurial journey. Key benefits include:

  • Mentorship: Guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders to refine ideas and build sustainable businesses.
  • Networking Opportunities: Access to a global community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and potential collaborators.
  • Training: Hands-on training in entrepreneurship, business development, and effective pitching strategies.
  • Financial Support: A stipend to cover living expenses during the fellowship, enabling fellows to focus fully on their startup development.
  • Access to Investors: Direct engagement with investors and potential partners to scale their ventures.

Application and Selection Process

The application process includes three stages:

Online Application: Interested candidates must submit an application, including a detailed proposal of their startup idea and a personal statement highlighting their vision.

  • Selection: A panel of experts will review applications to shortlist finalists based on innovation, feasibility, and impact potential.
  • Interviews: Finalists will undergo interviews with the selection committee before the final fellows are chosen.

Timeline

Specific dates for the application deadline, selection process, and fellowship commencement will be announced soon.

Empowering Entrepreneurs for Global Impact

The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship aims to empower young entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and resources to create impactful solutions. By addressing challenges such as poverty, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, fellows will contribute to meaningful progress in their respective countries and beyond.

The program has been lauded for fostering innovation and collaboration across borders, making it a valuable initiative for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to make a difference. This fellowship represents a remarkable opportunity for young changemakers to turn their innovative ideas into reality, driving economic growth and social progress across the Commonwealth.

The world is full of opportunities for young people to make a difference, develop their skills, and build their careers. From conferences and youth programs to scholarships and internships, there are numerous ways for youth to get involved, learn, and grow.

Upcoming Conferences

  • World Bank Youth Summit: Annual conference for young leaders to discuss innovative solutions for sustainable development.
  • United Nations Youth Climate Summit: Global gathering for young climate leaders to share ideas and solutions.
  • Global Youth Leadership Summit: Conference for young leaders to develop skills and network with peers.
  • International Youth Conference: Event for young people to discuss global issues and develop solutions.

Youth Programs

  • United Nations Young Professionals Program: Career development program for young professionals.
  • World Bank Young Professionals Program: Leadership development program for young professionals.
  • Global Youth Ambassador Program: Program for young leaders to develop skills and advocate for global issues.
  • Youth Leadership Program: Program for young people to develop leadership skills and network with peers.

Scholarships and Fellowships

  • Fulbright Scholarship: Scholarship program for international students to study in the United States.
  • Chevening Scholarship: Scholarship program for international students to study in the United Kingdom.
  • Global Health Fellowship: Fellowship program for young professionals to work in global health.
  • Sustainable Development Fellowship: Fellowship program for young professionals to work in sustainable development.

Internships

  • United Nations Internship: Internship program for students and young professionals to work with the United Nations.
  • World Bank Internship: Internship program for students and young professionals to work with the World Bank.
  • Global Internship: Internship program for students and young professionals to work with international organizations.
  • Research Internship: Internship program for students and young professionals to conduct research with international organizations.

These conferences, programs, scholarships, and internships offer young people the chance to make a real difference in the world. By providing opportunities for learning, growth, and development, they empower youth to become active citizens, leaders, and change-makers. Whether you're interested in sustainable development, global health, or social justice, there are opportunities available to help you achieve your goals.

The 2025 World Bank Youth Summit is set to inspire and empower young leaders from across the globe to tackle pressing global challenges with innovative solutions. Organized by the World Bank Group, this flagship event will take place in Washington, D.C., in April 2025 (exact dates to be announced). With the theme "Innovation for a Sustainable Future", the summit aims to foster creativity, collaboration, and actionable change among the next generation of changemakers.

Objectives of the Summit

The Youth Summit is designed to:

Empower young leaders: Provide a platform for participants to share ideas, experiences, and solutions for achieving sustainable development.
Foster innovation: Inspire and equip young innovators to address challenges such as climate change, education inequality, and economic development.
Promote collaboration: Facilitate networking between participants, World Bank experts, and other stakeholders to encourage meaningful partnerships.

Key Features and Activities

The summit’s agenda includes a variety of engaging sessions to ensure participants gain valuable insights and skills:

  • Keynote Speeches: Renowned global leaders and experts will deliver motivational talks, offering unique perspectives on sustainable development.
  • Panel Discussions: Interactive sessions will explore critical issues like climate action, education reform, and strategies for fostering economic resilience.
  • Workshops and Masterclasses: Practical training sessions will focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership skills essential for driving positive change.
  • Pitch Competition: Young innovators will have the chance to present their groundbreaking ideas to a panel of judges, competing for funding and mentorship to bring their visions to life.

Eligibility and Application Process

The summit is open to young individuals aged 18-35 from all countries. Applicants will be evaluated based on their innovative ideas, leadership potential, and dedication to sustainable development. Interested candidates can submit their applications online.

Why Attend the 2025 Youth Summit?

  • Global Networking: Build connections with peers, industry experts, and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds.
  • Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience through workshops designed to enhance entrepreneurial and leadership abilities.
  • Opportunities for Growth: Showcase your ideas in front of an international audience and access mentorship and funding opportunities.
  • Inspiration: Learn from accomplished leaders and gain insights into real-world strategies for overcoming global challenges.

The 2025 World Bank Youth Summit promises to be a transformative experience, equipping young leaders with the tools and networks needed to build a more sustainable future. 

The United Nations is preparing for the much-anticipated 2025 Ocean Conference, set to be held in Nice, France, from June 9 to 13, 2025. Co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, this global event seeks to galvanize action and unite efforts to conserve and sustainably utilize the planet's oceans.

Theme and Goals

Under the theme "Accelerating Action and Mobilizing All Actors to Conserve and Sustainably Use the Ocean", the conference will serve as a platform for governments, UN agencies, international organizations, and civil society to address pressing ocean conservation challenges. The event underscores the urgent need to protect marine ecosystems and ensure the sustainable use of marine resources.

The key objectives of the conference include:

Promoting immediate action to conserve oceans and marine resources in line with Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14).

Supporting the implementation of partnerships and agreements aimed at sustainable ocean use.

Establishing the "Nice Ocean Action Plan", an intergovernmentally agreed declaration paired with a series of voluntary commitments to accelerate global ocean conservation efforts.

Pre-Conference Initiatives

A series of impactful events will precede the main conference, offering stakeholders an opportunity to engage, collaborate, and innovate. Notable pre-conference initiatives include:

One Ocean Science Congress (June 4-6, 2025, in Nice): A gathering of scientific minds to share knowledge and research on ocean conservation.
Blue Economy and Finance Forum (June 7-8, 2025, in Monaco): Focused on integrating sustainable economic practices into marine industries.
Ocean Rise & Coastal Resilience Coalition (June 7, 2025, in Nice): Highlighting strategies to combat rising sea levels and enhance coastal resilience.
These initiatives are designed to bring together diverse stakeholders, foster partnerships, and promote knowledge sharing to support the sustainable development of ocean resources.

The 2025 UN Ocean Conference is expected to be a milestone in global efforts to address the mounting challenges facing marine ecosystems. By uniting stakeholders and promoting actionable solutions, the event aims to catalyze meaningful change, ensuring a sustainable future for the world’s oceans. The adoption of the Nice Ocean Action Plan will provide a clear roadmap for nations to work collaboratively toward ocean conservation goals.

With its comprehensive agenda and wide-ranging participation, the conference marks a significant step in safeguarding our oceans for future generations.

Aimed at empowering Dalit students, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday unveiled the Dr. Ambedkar Samman Scholarship, a scheme that will offer free foreign education to selected Dalit students from Delhi.

This scholarship will cover the entire cost of education, including travel and accommodation, for the beneficiaries. To qualify, students must be residents of Delhi and secure admission to a recognized foreign university.

Kejriwal, during the announcement, paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the architect of the Indian Constitution, who strongly advocated for the power of education as a tool for social upliftment. “We want to empower Dalit students and give them the opportunity to study abroad,” said Kejriwal, emphasizing the scheme’s potential to provide these students with a platform to excel internationally.

The launch of the Dr. Ambedkar Samman Scholarship comes just ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, where Kejriwal's Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is campaigning for re-election. As part of their election promises, the party has also committed to offering a monthly stipend for women and free medical treatment for senior citizens, along with other welfare initiatives.

This scholarship is seen as a landmark move by the Delhi government to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in accessing world-class education abroad. By reducing the financial barriers that often prevent marginalized students from pursuing higher education, the initiative aims to level the playing field and create more opportunities for social mobility.

The Dr. Ambedkar Samman Scholarship is expected to be a game-changer for Dalit students, offering them a unique chance to gain international exposure and contribute significantly to the nation’s progress.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Tokyo Office is offering an exciting internship program for students and young professionals eager to gain hands-on experience in international development and child rights. This internship provides a unique opportunity to contribute to UNICEF’s mission while building valuable skills in research, communication, and project management.

Internship Details:

  • Duration: 3-6 months (full-time)
  • Eligibility: Applicants must be currently enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate program, or have graduated within the last two years.
  • Language Requirement: Fluency in both English and Japanese is mandatory to ensure effective communication in this bilingual environment.

Interns will assist the UNICEF Tokyo Office in a variety of tasks that support the organization's ongoing projects. Their duties will include conducting research and data analysis on key issues related to child rights and international development. Interns will also assist in the planning and execution of events, as well as the creation of communication materials such as social media content and press releases.

This internship is an ideal opportunity for students and young professionals to gain practical experience in a globally recognized organization while contributing to UNICEF’s crucial work in improving the lives of children around the world.

  • Skill Development: Interns will enhance their research, communication, and project management skills while working alongside experienced professionals in international development.
  • Networking Opportunities: This program provides an excellent platform for interns to network with experts and professionals in the field of child rights and development.
  • Global Impact: Interns will have the chance to make a tangible impact on UNICEF's work, contributing to the well-being of children globally.

Candidates interested in applying for the UNICEF Tokyo internship program must meet the eligibility criteria and submit their application through the official UNICEF website. Applications should include a resume, cover letter, and proof of language proficiency in both English and Japanese. This internship is a valuable stepping stone for those interested in pursuing a career in international development, providing not only academic and professional growth but also the opportunity to be part of a globally respected organization committed to child welfare.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has announced an exciting six-month, full-time internship opportunity at its Bangkok office, offering students and recent graduates a chance to gain hands-on experience in international development. Interns will support UNDP’s projects in Thailand by conducting research, analyzing development-related issues, assisting in the preparation of reports and presentations, and participating in events and workshops to advance project implementation. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in or recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program, with a strong academic background in international development, economics, or political science. Fluency in English is mandatory, along with excellent communication and analytical skills.

Applications can be submitted through the UNDP Jobs portal, accompanied by a resume, cover letter, and academic transcripts, before the specified deadline. Selected interns will receive a monthly stipend to support their living expenses during the internship. This program offers invaluable exposure to real-world challenges and solutions in sustainable development, while providing opportunities to network with professionals in a globally recognized organization. Interns will develop essential skills in research, analysis, and project management, setting a strong foundation for future careers in global development.

By joining this program, participants will contribute to the UNDP’s mission of addressing critical global challenges, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change, while advancing their own professional aspirations. This internship serves as a unique opportunity to be part of impactful initiatives and work towards creating a more sustainable and equitable world. For more details and application guidelines, visit the official UNDP Jobs portal.

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