Are you a young leader passionate about making a real difference in the world? If you’re ready to bring transformative change to global challenges, the Cisco Global Citizen Prize Youth Leadership Award 2025 offers an extraordinary opportunity. This prestigious award, launched in partnership between Cisco and Global Citizen, honors inspiring youth leaders aged 18-30 who are making an undeniable impact on global issues, from poverty reduction to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (Global Goals).
This annual award celebrates a single exceptional young leader who embodies the qualities of a true global citizen. The prize not only amplifies their impact on critical issues but also offers a substantial financial boost of $250,000, awarded directly to the organization associated with the winner’s work. This support empowers the recipient to scale their efforts and continue driving positive change.
Why the Cisco Youth Leadership Award Matters
In a world where technology and innovation drive solutions to complex problems, Cisco and Global Citizen aim to empower young leaders using technology to address urgent global challenges. The Cisco Global Citizen Youth Leadership Award is rooted in the belief that young people hold the keys to a more just and sustainable future.
Global Citizen, a well-known platform dedicated to fighting extreme poverty, has helped drive 33.8 million actions since its founding, impacting the lives of over 1.29 billion people worldwide. The Cisco Youth Leadership Award underscores the organization’s commitment to empowering young change-makers. This initiative is not just about recognition but also about equipping young leaders with resources, networks, and visibility to amplify their impact.
Prize Details and Benefits
Imagine being recognized on a global scale for your contributions to the world. The Cisco Global Citizen Youth Leadership Award offers:
- A Cash Prize of $250,000: This significant amount is awarded to the organization associated with the winner’s work, further fueling projects and outreach efforts that align with the Global Goals.
- Increased Global Recognition: The award highlights the winner’s achievements, raising their profile as a youth leader in international arenas.
- Extensive Networking Opportunities: Winners gain access to influential leaders, organizations, and stakeholders across multiple sectors.
- Alignment with the Global Goals: The recognition supports initiatives that directly address the Sustainable Development Goals, which are pivotal to global progress.
- Media Exposure: Cisco and Global Citizen provide media visibility, amplifying the winner’s work, mission, and impact to a broader audience.
What Criteria’s?
The Cisco Youth Leadership Award is highly competitive. Here’s what judges are looking for:
- Global Citizenship: Demonstrating values and actions that embody the spirit of a global problem-solver and leader.
- Impact: A track record of measurable achievements over the past 3–5 years in addressing Global Goals like poverty reduction, education, or environmental sustainability.
- Vision: A clear and compelling plan for extending work over the next 3–5 years, with the Cisco award facilitating that growth.
- Catalyst for Change: An ability to inspire and empower others to take action toward the Global Goals, fostering a ripple effect of positive impact.
- Technological Innovation: Initiatives that creatively integrate technology, enhancing efficiency, reach, and effectiveness.
If you’re a young leader with a vision and a track record of impactful initiatives, these criteria can help you gauge your fit for this incredible opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria for the Cisco Youth Leadership Award
Make sure you meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Cisco Global Citizen Prize 2025:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old.
- Global Eligibility: Open to individuals worldwide, regardless of nationality.
- Merit and Organizational Strength: Applicants are evaluated based on their impact, creativity, and the strength of the organization they work with or represent.
- Global Goals Alignment: Applicants must demonstrate contributions to ending poverty and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Commitment to Prize Distribution: Winners must agree to allocate the prize funds to the organization on whose behalf they are applying.
- Game of Skill: Winners are chosen based on their accomplishments and the creativity shown in their applications.
How to Apply
Applying for the Cisco Global Citizen Youth Leadership Award involves a multi-step process. Here’s how to maximize your chances:
- Review Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the requirements listed above.
- Prepare Required Documents: Applicants need:
- A scanned copy of a valid passport.
- A short video (1-2 minutes) explaining why they’re the ideal candidate for the award.
- Proof of the organization’s registration.
- Answers to five short questions detailing their work.
- Supplemental Documentation (for Finalists): If shortlisted as a finalist, be ready to provide:
- Three letters of endorsement or recommendation.
- Supplemental information that strengthens your application.
- An endorsement letter or video (not exceeding 2 minutes) on official letterhead.
The application deadline is December 18, 2024, at 5:00 PM PT. Shortlisted finalists will be contacted by February 3, 2025, to proceed to the next round.
How Winning
Winning the Cisco Global Citizen Youth Leadership Award can be a game-changer for any young leader. Besides the substantial financial backing, this recognition comes with the credibility and visibility needed to attract more partners, volunteers, and funding. The honor of being associated with Cisco and Global Citizen also opens doors to a vast network of stakeholders committed to global progress. From networking with influential figures to gaining media exposure, the award winner’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when youth-driven initiatives receive the support they need.
Why You Should Apply
If you’re a young leader driven by a purpose larger than yourself, this award can magnify your impact. With technology and innovation at the heart of global solutions, Cisco and Global Citizen empower leaders like you to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. By applying, you’re not just competing for an award—you’re stepping into a community of change-makers, advocates, and allies dedicated to creating a better future for all.
Join a Legacy of Global Change
Since 2009, Global Citizen’s initiatives have rallied 33.8 million actions, directly impacting 1.29 billion lives. By winning the Cisco Youth Leadership Award, you become part of a legacy that’s pushing boundaries and reshaping the future of global leadership. The youth of today are shaping tomorrow, and this award is an invitation to bring your dreams to life and inspire others along the way.
So, are you ready to make history and drive global impact? Don’t miss this chance to amplify your efforts and be celebrated as a young leader in global change. Apply for the Cisco Global Citizen Prize Youth Leadership Award 2025 and take your place among the world’s most inspiring youth leaders.
