The Spirit of Togetherness Award 2026, presented by Pernod Ricard in partnership with One Young World, is a prestigious global opportunity that supports young leaders building inclusive, connected, and thriving communities.
This award recognizes five outstanding changemakers who are fostering meaningful human connections, promoting belonging, and creating spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can come together.
Winners will receive an €8,000 grant, a fully funded trip to the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town, South Africa, and access to a powerful global network.
Quick Summary of Spirit of Togetherness Award 2026
If you are working on projects that promote community connection, inclusion, and social cohesion, this is an opportunity you should not miss.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Name | Spirit of Togetherness Award |
| Sponsor | Pernod Ricard |
| Partner | One Young World |
| Number of Awards | 5 |
| Grant Value | €8,000 |
| Location | Cape Town, South Africa |
| Event | One Young World Summit 2026 |
| Summit Dates | November 3 – 6, 2026 |
| Application Opens | 8 June 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 20 July 2026 |
| Eligible Age | 18 – 35 (legal drinking age required) |
About the Spirit of Togetherness Award
In today’s rapidly changing world, shaped by digital transformation, globalization, and shifting social norms, meaningful human connection has become more important than ever.
Pernod Ricard describes this concept as “conviviality”—the art of bringing people together to share meaningful experiences, whether through:
- Shared meals
- Cultural celebrations
- Everyday conversations
- Community activities
However, modern society also faces growing challenges such as:
- Social isolation and loneliness
- Cultural division and fragmentation
- Loss of belonging in communities
The Spirit of Togetherness Award 2026 aims to support young leaders who are actively rebuilding connection and fostering inclusive communities.
What the Award Offers
Selected winners will receive a powerful package of funding, exposure, and global opportunities:
Financial Support
- €8,000 grant to scale or expand your initiative
Fully Funded Summit Experience
- Participation in the One Young World Summit 2026
- Round-trip flights to Cape Town
- Hotel accommodation (Nov 2–6, 2026)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Ground transportation during the summit
Global Exposure & Networking
- Access to a global network of Conviviality Ambassadors
- Opportunities to collaborate with international leaders
- A platform to showcase your initiative on a global stage
Focus Areas: What Kind of Projects Are Eligible?
Your initiative should align with one or more of the following themes:
1. Building Community Connections
- Creating spaces for shared experiences
- Encouraging collaboration and interaction among people
2. Promoting Inclusion and Diversity
- Bridging gaps between cultures, generations, and identities
- Supporting marginalized or underrepresented groups
3. Cultural and Social Engagement
- Celebrating traditions, food, arts, and heritage
- Encouraging everyday moments of togetherness
4. Creating Safe and Welcoming Environments
- Designing inclusive workplaces or community spaces
- Promoting psychological and physical safety
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Spirit of Togetherness Award 2026, applicants must:
- Be aged 18 to 35 years
- Be at least the legal drinking age in their country
- Be from any country worldwide
- Be leading or actively involved in a social impact initiative
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Impact: Clear, measurable community results
- Inclusivity: Commitment to diversity and belonging
- Scalability: Potential to grow or replicate the initiative
Bonus Consideration:
- Environmental sustainability
- Innovation in approach
What Makes a Strong Application?
Successful candidates typically:
- Show real-world impact (not just ideas)
- Demonstrate leadership and initiative ownership
- Provide evidence of community engagement
- Present a clear vision for scaling their project
Application and Selection Process
Step 1: Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form via the One Young World platform.
Click here to fill out the form directly.
Step 2: Evaluation
Applications are reviewed by a panel including:
- One Young World Counsellors
- Pernod Ricard representatives
- Senior leadership teams
Step 3: Final Selection
Five winners will be selected based on merit and impact.
For more details, click here.
Application Deadline
- Opening Date: 8 June 2026
- Deadline: 20 July 2026
Late submissions will not be accepted, so early application is strongly advised.
Why You Should Apply
The Spirit of Togetherness Award is more than just funding—it is a platform to:
- Scale your impact globally
- Connect with like-minded leaders
- Gain international recognition
- Influence conversations around community building
This opportunity is especially valuable for young Africans and global changemakers working to build stronger, more inclusive societies.
FAQs
1. Is the award fully funded?
Yes. It includes funding, travel, accommodation, and summit participation.
2. Can Nigerians apply?
Yes, applicants from Nigeria and all countries worldwide are eligible.
3. Do I need a registered organization?
Not necessarily, but you must be actively leading or contributing to an initiative.
4. How many winners are selected?
Only 5 winners are selected globally.
5. Can I apply with a team project?
Yes, but the application must be submitted by an individual representing the initiative.
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