The Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award

The Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award is a collaborative initiative between Cisco and Global Citizen, aimed at celebrating exceptional young leaders who utilize technology to combat extreme poverty. This award recognizes an individual between the ages of 18 and 30 who has demonstrated impactful work aligned with the United Nations’ Global Goals. The award specifically honors those integrating technology and innovation to advance global development objectives in meaningful, measurable ways. The prize includes an unrestricted $250,000 award granted to the organization the individual represents. The winner will be announced during Global Citizen NOW in May 2026 in New York City. Applicants must be significantly involved with a legal entity such as a nonprofit, for-profit business, B-corp, or social enterprise. The work must reflect a 3–5 year track record of measurable impact, with plans to extend this work in the future. Applicants are expected to demonstrate leadership, global citizenship values, and use of IT-based solutions that increase efficiency, broaden reach, and amplify social outcomes. The judging process involves evaluations by representatives from Global Citizen, Cisco, and independent international development experts. Candidates will be evaluated on five key criteria: measurable impact, a compelling future vision, inspirational leadership, embodiment of global citizenship, and innovation in technology. Up to five finalists will be selected by early February 2026 and must provide three letters of recommendation from a colleague, funder/partner, and a person directly impacted by their work. Additional documentation such as proof of organizational registration may also be requested. The application includes four main components: personal and organizational details including a scanned passport copy; a 1–2 minute video pitch; short answer responses aligned with the judging criteria; and supporting organizational documentation. All applications must be submitted in English and are final upon submission. The application period opens on November 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM PT and closes on December 17, 2025, at 5:00 PM PT. The prize funds may be used without restriction, although the winner must provide quarterly organizational progress updates for three years. The award is open globally, excluding countries sanctioned by U.S. authorities, and applicants must be capable of submitting their materials, including the required video, by the deadline. For further questions not addressed in the provided materials, applicants may contact the award administrators directly by email.

Clearly demonstrate measurable impact over 3–5 years and articulate how the prize will advance your work. Ensure video pitch is persuasive and all required documents are submitted by the deadline.