Young people are the future leaders. As the world becomes ever more interconnected, they will have to act on global issues, being affected as much by events in faraway places as by what happens down the road.  To meet the challenges of tomorrow, young people must be prepared to contribute to positive social change and strengthen civil society in this global environment.

A Global Changemaker is a young activist operating through a range of national and international networks, who is able to influence his or her community as well as speak to authority with confidence and passion. Changemakers are not afraid to challenge either accepted ways of thinking or their convictions. Changemakers are forward looking, they take their ideas and put them into practice. A Changemaker accepts difference, is flexible, is able to take on new ideas and skills and will communicate them to others.

We are now pleased to announce that we are looking for new Changemakers to participate in the 4th Annual Global Youth Summit which will take place in the UK from 22-28 November.  From the 60 Changemakers selected, six participants will have the opportunity of attending the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos Switzerland from 27-31 January.  They will represent the group by raising decision-makers’ awareness of key issues on the global agenda.

If you are between 16 and 19 years old in November 2009, have a good knowledge of English and feel you have what it takes to be a Changemaker go onto the following website and apply.  The deadline is 21 August so don’t waste time!