We are looking for the Young European of the Year 2026

Are you a young person between 18 and 26 dedicated to building a more pluralistic European society rooted in solidarity? Do you fight for justice and stand up against discrimination? Then apply to become the Young European of the Year 2026! The Young European of the Year will receive seed capital to finance their own project that promotes European values (e.g., to establish a social entrepreneurship venture).

We are looking for committed Europeans between the ages of 18 and 26 who are working to make Europe a better place, whether through efforts to build a pluralistic, open, and solidary society, or through their fight against injustice and all forms of discrimination. Through your dedication and commitment, you inspire other young people and demonstrate leadership and responsibility in your field of engagement.

Last year, Magdolna Kremmer from Hungary was awarded the title Young European oft he Year 2025.  She is a youth worker, educator and community manager for disadvantaged children and young people in Hungary. She mentors and educates pupils, advises trainees on a voluntary basis and has co-founded a foundation to promote educational work in the municipality of Piliscsaba.

For more information about the award and its previous awardees, see here.

Applications are open from April 6th until May 17th, 2026 and can be submitted through this link.

What does The Young European of the Year 2026 receive?

The award comes with seed captial, which is to be used exclusively to implement a project (including social entrepeneurship). Your project should promote a pluralistic European society rooted in solidarity, and the values of a peaceful, diverse, and inclusive Europe. In your application, you will be asked to provide details about your project idea, including: the target audience, the location, planned activities, timeline, and any partners or collaborators involved.

In addition to the grant, the award winner will become part of the jury for the Schwarzkopf Europe Award and benefit from being part of a European network. The Schwarzkopf Foundation will support the visibility of your work through events, its extensive European network, and public relations efforts.

Who can apply?

To be eligible you must be between 18 and 26 years old and actively engaged in at least one of the member states of the Council of Europe.

How to apply?

Complete the online application form and provide the requested information, including details about yourself, your engagement, and your project. In particular, you must answer the following questions: Why should you become the next Young European of the Year, and why is your engagement important in your specific context?

Additionally, we ask you to provide details about your project idea, including: the target audience, the location, planned activities, timeline, and any partners or collaborators involved.

You may also include references such as links to social media accounts, websites, or articles related to your work.
Applications will be accepted until May 17th 2026 (11:59 p.m. CET).

Who is part of the jury?

The jury consists of the two previous award winners, a representative of the funding partner for the award, and the Executive Director of the Schwarzkopf Foundation.
When is the award ceremony?

The award ceremony takes place on 18th June 2026 in Berlin during the Courtyard Festival of the Schwarzkopf Foundation. Participation in the award ceremony is mandatory in order to receive the award. Travel and accommodation costs will be covered.

Who can I contact if I have further questions?

If you have any questions, please reach out to events@schwarzkopf-stiftung.de

The Schwarzkopf Foundation Young Europe looks forward to receiving your application!

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