Deadline: 15-Jun-2026
The Pankaj Award to End Conflict, supported by Regent Global and One Young World, provides up to $100,000 in funding to young leaders tackling conflict and promoting peace. The program selects 10 finalists, all of whom receive funding and a fully funded opportunity to attend the One Young World Summit 2026 in Cape Town. It targets leaders working on peacebuilding, conflict prevention, and community cohesion worldwide.
What Is the Pankaj Award to End Conflict?
The Pankaj Award to End Conflict is a global funding and recognition program designed to support young leaders addressing conflict and division.
Backed by Regent Global in partnership with One Young World, the award:
- Recognizes impactful peacebuilding initiatives
- Provides funding to scale solutions
- Connects leaders to global networks
Key Objectives of the Award
The award focuses on:
- Preventing and resolving conflict at local, national, and regional levels
- Promoting dialogue and mutual understanding between communities
- Preventing violence escalation and outbreaks
- Protecting the rights of marginalized and oppressed groups
- Supporting sustainable peacebuilding and long-term stability
Funding Structure and Benefits
Total Funding Pool
- $250,000 committed by Regent Global
Award Distribution
- 1 Winner:
- Receives $100,000 to scale their initiative
- 9 Finalists:
- Receive $10,000 to $50,000 each
Additional Benefits
All 10 finalists receive:
- Fully funded participation in the One Young World Summit 2026
- Travel (economy flights)
- Accommodation in Cape Town
- Meals during the summit (3–6 November 2026)
Key Concepts Explained
Peacebuilding
A long-term process that:
- Addresses the root causes of conflict
- Builds systems for sustainable peace and cooperation
Conflict Prevention
Strategies that:
- Reduce the risk of violence and instability
- Promote early intervention and dialogue
Community Cohesion
Efforts that:
- Strengthen social unity and trust
- Bridge divides between diverse groups
Who Is Eligible?
Age Requirement
- Must be 18–35 years old
- Applicants over 35 may be considered if they demonstrate exceptional impact
Organizational Role
Applicants must:
- Lead a:
- Registered non-profit organization
- Social enterprise
- Purpose-driven company
- Hold decision-making authority within their organization
Experience and Impact
Candidates should:
- Demonstrate proven impact in peacebuilding
- Show leadership in addressing:
- Conflict
- Social division
- Community challenges
Availability
- Must be able to attend the summit in November 2026 in Cape Town
Why This Award Matters
Supports Peace Leadership
- Empowers leaders working to reduce conflict globally
Scales Impact
- Provides substantial funding to expand initiatives
Global Visibility
- Offers exposure through One Young World networks
Strengthens Communities
- Promotes inclusion, dialogue, and long-term stability
How the Award Works
Selection Process
- Applications are reviewed globally
- 10 finalists are shortlisted
- Finalists are evaluated based on:
- Impact
- Innovation
- Leadership
- 1 winner is selected
Program Structure
- Application and shortlisting
- Finalist selection
- Summit participation
- Award distribution
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Verify age, leadership role, and organizational status
Step 2: Prepare Application
Include:
- Organizational details
- Description of your initiative
- Evidence of impact
Step 3: Demonstrate Impact
Clearly explain:
- The problem you are addressing
- Your solution and approach
- Measurable outcomes and achievements
Step 4: Submit Application
- Complete the official application form
- Ensure accuracy and completeness
Step 5: Await Results
- Shortlisted finalists are notified
- Final winner is selected
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting vague or generic proposals
- Lack of measurable impact evidence
- Weak explanation of conflict-related work
- Not demonstrating leadership authority
- Incomplete application details
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight real-world impact and results
- Use clear examples of peacebuilding success
- Show scalability and sustainability of your solution
- Demonstrate leadership and decision-making role
- Align your work with conflict prevention goals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many finalists are selected?
A total of 10 finalists are selected.
2. What is the top award amount?
The winner receives $100,000.
3. Do all finalists receive funding?
Yes, each finalist receives $10,000 to $50,000.
4. Is the summit fully funded?
Yes, travel, accommodation, and meals are fully covered.
5. Where is the summit held?
In Cape Town.
6. What type of organizations are eligible?
Non-profits, social enterprises, and purpose-driven companies.
7. What is the key selection criterion?
Demonstrated impact in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
Conclusion
The Pankaj Award to End Conflict 2026 is a high-impact opportunity for young leaders dedicated to peacebuilding and social cohesion. With substantial funding, global recognition, and access to international networks, the program enables changemakers to scale their solutions and create lasting peace worldwide.
For more information, visit One Young World.
