Ashoka Young Changemakers is a youth leadership initiative that recruits changemaker teens around the world. Ideal candidates have already launched a social venture or project with tangible impact. Selected members receive recognition, coaching, networking opportunities, bootcamps, and access to Ashoka’s global changemaker ecosystem to influence peers and institutions.
Eligibility Criteria for AYS
-
Must be under 20 (born on or after a cutoff year; varies by country).
-
Founder or co‑founder of a social project/venture with demonstrable impact—not just an idea or volunteer role.
-
Shows leadership by mobilizing a team and sustained community benefit.
-
Residency in a participating country (currently includes India, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Indonesia, Brazil, USA).
-
No application fee required.
How to apply for AYS
-
Nominate yourself or be nominated via the Ashoka Young Changemakers nomination form (open year-round).
-
After screening, selected candidates will be invited to interviews and national selection panels (online or in-person).
-
Finalists pitch to a selection jury of social entrepreneurs and changemaker leaders.
-
Successful applicants are inducted into the AYC cohort, attend bootcamps, co-lead community initiatives, and access mentorship and global platforms.