About Us
The Young Climate Prize is a global mentorship and award program founded by The World Around that champions and accelerates the next generation of climate leaders. Every two years, 25 exceptional changemakers under 25 are selected through an international open call, representing communities on the front lines of the climate crisis. Each finalist is paired with a world-renowned designer for one-on-one mentorship and joins a cohort-wide Design Academy of talks, workshops, and strategy sessions. The program culminates at The World Around Summit in New York City, where three prize winners and one jury honoree present their work and visions for a more resilient future.
“There is no social or spatial justice without real opportunities for youth. They are on the front lines of the climate crisis, and their actions are needed now.”
DESIGN ACADEMY
A fundamental component of the Young Climate Prize mentorship program is the Design Academy, which invites the entire cohort of under 25s to enroll in a three-month intensive program of participatory group lectures, workshops, and discussions hosted by The World Around's global network of leading architects, artists, curators, scientists, and storytellers. Supplementing the cohort’s individual mentoring sessions, this bespoke world-class educational program was designed to cover a broad range of topics that would help all of these young thinkers and makers to further expand their knowledge, and share ideas and reflections with professionals and peers alike. For the upcoming cycle, London's Architectural Association School of Architecture will also provide the entire cohort with a digital membership to the school, access to its extensive library of resources, bespoke librarian support, and enrich the Design Academy lectures with curated reading and research materials.
“The Design Academy opened my eyes to see the world beyond my own home. I am so honored to be part of this community.”
TODAY'S COHORT HIGHLIGHT
Meet the Uru Uru Team, a Bolivian initiative led by 2025 Jury Prize winner Dayana Blanco Quiroga. Since 2019, they have been adapting the ecological knowledge of their ancestors to restore their lake to health using totora, a native reed that has been shown to absorb heavy metals.
%2520Projects%2520Images%25205%2520(1).jpeg&w=3840&q=75)
Uru Uru Team at Summit 2025
Cycle 03 Mentors
Meet The World Around's global network of leading architects, artists, curators, scientists, and storytellers, who will lead our Cycle 03 Masterclasses and Workshops.
“Being part of this community reminds me that design isn’t just about structures; it’s about systems, dignity, and justice.”
Alumni Videos
Discover the people behind past cohorts through videos, project highlights, and stories of ambitious ideas brought to life
Archipelagic Action
Black Girl Environmentalist
Taking Flight
Youth Environment
THE WORLD AROUND VIDEOS
Our audience favorites: short, thought-provoking presentations, projects and interviews from The World Around’s most inspiring contributors.
National Assembly of Benin
Reggio School
For All That Breathes on Earth
The More than Human Anthropocene
Ecocitex
“The World Around provides a powerful source of hope for young people by creating a platform where we can share our work aimed at preserving the planet. In a time when it’s easy to feel disheartened about the future, this space helps us unite our voices, challenge existing boundaries, and inspire new ways of thinking. It has reignited my belief that the Earth can still be saved, and that by amplifying and expanding these efforts globally, we can make a meaningful and lasting impact.”