About the opportunity
We are not waiting is a youth-led project aiming to produce an open-access anthology of six chapters, to be launched at the UNESCO MOST Forum 2027. The anthology will document and showcase innovative, real-world initiatives led by young people aged 14–35 that drive systemic transformation. It seeks contributions grounded in practical experience rather than theoretical ideas, covering themes such as regenerative economics, circular living, mutual aid, art for change, climate justice, and peacebuilding. Selected contributors will be invited to develop a full piece of approximately 2,000 words, with editorial support provided throughout the process. The project aims to create a durable, policy-relevant record of youth-led systems change in practice.
Funding and benefits
- Inclusion in an open-access, policy-relevant anthology.
- Editorial support from the project team throughout the development of the full contribution.
- Opportunity to showcase youth-led initiatives on a global platform.
Who can apply?
- Individuals or small teams aged 14 to 35 at the time of submission.
- No academic credentials or institutional affiliations required.
- Must be actively working on one of the six specified themes.
- Entrants aged 18 and under must have their abstract submitted by an adult (e.g., parent, guardian, or teacher) on their behalf.
- Contributions from the Global Majority and indigenous communities are especially encouraged.
Required documents
- Abstract (maximum 500 words) describing the initiative, context, distinctiveness, and community impact.
- AI declaration (if AI tools were used for limited purposes like grammar or translation).
- Visual media (optional, must be hosted on a platform like Google Drive with public access links).
When to apply
- Abstract submission deadline: 31 August 2026.
- Shortlist notification: 30 October 2026.
- Full contribution (approx. 2,000 words) submission deadline for selected contributors: 13 December 2026.
How to apply
- Draft the abstract (max 500 words) in a separate document.
- Visit the official 'We are not waiting' project page to access the submission portal.
- Complete the online form with personal and demographic details.
- Upload the abstract as a .docx or .pdf file.
- Include links to any visual components if applicable, ensuring they are set to 'Anyone with the link can view'.
Additional information
- The anthology is limited to approximately 18 contributions.
- AI language models should not be used to draft or generate content; limited use for grammar, translation, or reference formatting is permitted with a mandatory declaration.
- Submissions must be original and not duplicates of previously published work.
- If submitting as a team, all contributing authors must meet the age requirement.
- The project is a joint initiative by The 50 Percent and the UNESCO-MOST BRIDGES UK Hub.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Young people aged 14–35 actively involved in systemic change initiatives.
- Individuals or teams with practical, real-world experience in themes like climate justice, mutual aid, or regenerative economics.
- Contributors from the Global Majority and indigenous communities whose work aligns with the anthology's focus.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a call for contributions rather than a paid job, and no financial compensation is mentioned.
- The project requires a significant time commitment to develop a 2,000-word piece if selected.
- Strict adherence to the AI declaration policy is required, as AI usage is limited to grammar and translation only.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is perfect for those looking to document their grassroots work and gain global visibility for their initiatives. It offers a platform to influence policy-relevant discourse and receive professional editorial support, which is excellent for early-career activists or practitioners.
Our take
An excellent opportunity for youth-led practitioners seeking to showcase their work on a global stage; those looking for paid employment or funding for their projects should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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