Carnegie Challenge for Civic Leadership 2026-2027 for young changemakers

What is the challenge?

Run by Ashoka, the challenge asks young people to identify a problem in their school or community and work with others to solve it. You can enter a new idea or an existing project. All eligible participants get peer feedback, on-demand training, live support sessions and the chance to become a certified Ashoka Youth Venturer.

Who can apply?

Applicants must be aged 20 or under by the end of the entry period and located in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa or the United States. Projects must be youth-led, and applications must be submitted in English. Younger applicants need an adult to support them with the form.

What can you win?

Across Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, 66 winners are selected: 30 receive a USD 250 Civic Promise Award, 30 finalists receive a USD 1,000 Civic Impact Award and 6 Grand Prize winners receive USD 5,000 each. Anyone awarded USD 250 or more is considered for an in-person convening in Kenya during the week of 26 July 2027, with travel, hotel, ground transport and meals covered by Ashoka.

Deadlines

Early applicants with new ideas may receive a small Civic Seed Grant; the early deadline is on the official page. The final deadline is 30 January 2027 at 23:59 ET.