

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming every aspect of how we live, learn, and work. As automation and intelligent systems continue to reshape our world, the next generation must learn to explore possibilities, innovate responsibly, and participate in meaningful change. This year, the Global Youth Challenge (GYC) 2026 invites students to investigate the evolving relationship between AI and the world of work. Through interviews, research, and creative inquiry, participants will uncover how AI is reshaping career paths, identify emerging opportunities, and propose innovative, ethical, and sustainable solutions a the local and global level.
This competition aims to inspire young thinkers to reflect deeply on how AI can empower humanity to respond to challenges, promote ethical leadership and build a sustainable future. In particular, we know the future of work is changing, and we are asking you to explore this challenge in your own local region and community. What does the global issue of the future of work look like in your local community? What industries, agriculture or other forms of work are currently in your local community, and how will these be changing in the coming years? How will people, both young and older, find new forms of work? How could AI play a positive role in supporting members of your community, perhaps in new forms of work?

This scholarship has been established to honour Paul Pu, President of the Global Youth Challenge (GYC) and Director of The Erindale Academy, in recognition of his passion for and commitment to leadership and education.
Two scholarships, each valued at approximately $2,500, will be awarded annually to students who rank among the GYC Top 16 and are entering their first-year of full-time studies in the Faculty of Arts & Science. Preference will be given to one student from the Erindale Academy and another student from any other school. Preference will also be given to international students.
Recipients will be selected based on a combination of academic excellence and demonstrated leadership. Evaluation will be based on the University of Toronto’s academic admission criteria, the student’s standing as a GYC Top 16 Winner, and a leadership evaluation rubric. Final selection will be made by the University of Toronto.
The University of Ottawa will provide a one-time $3,000 CAD entrance scholarship to up to four (4) of the top 25% of the winners of the GYC annual essay and speech competition.
The scholarship is valid only for students who enroll in undergraduate programs at University of Ottawa.
St. Clair College (SCC) will provide a $3,000 entrance scholarship to each of all top 25% winners of the GYC annual essay and speech competition.
The scholarship is valid only for students who enroll in academic programs at St. Clair College.
Erindale Academy will award a $32,500 Entrance Scholarship for international students to one of the Top 16 Winners of the annual Global Youth Challenge (GYC) Essay and Speech Competition, and $3,000 Entrance Scholarships to three students among the Top 15% of all participants (open to both domestic and international students).
Scholarships are valid only for students who enroll as full-time students in academic programs at Erindale Academy.
The Top 16 finalists will receive Champion, Gold, Silver, or Bronze Awards.
The Top 25% of participants will earn a Certificate of Distinction, and all participants will receive a Certificate of Participation, recognizing their valuable contribution to the global dialogue on AI and responsible innovation.
More scholarships and awards will be announced gradually.
1. Conduct an Interview
Conduct an interview with one or more members of your household or community - a teacher, worker, business professional, or adult in your life - to gather real-world
insights on how AI is influencing the future of work in your local community. Video record this interview, and make sure to obtain permission from the person you are interviewing (use the permission form on our Web site). You can choose any questions you like, and decide the length of the interview, but you should plan on using selected portions of this interview in your final submission.
2. Create an Interview Video
Create a 3–5-minute edited version of your interview that highlights the key moments or ideas from your interview, that will be Part 1 of your submission.
3. Develop Ideas and Propose Solutions
Develop Ideas and Propose Solutions. Analyze how AI will likely impact workers in your community. Identify the challenges and opportunities, and think about any original and responsible solutions for shaping the future of work in your part of the world.
4. Create a Presentation or Project Submission
Prepare a 3–5-minute presentation video summarizing your research, ideas, and proposed solutions. Your presentation may include slides, visuals, or other creative media to communicate your message effectively. You can include video excerpts from your interview although this is not required since it will also be submitted separately.
5. Written project summary
A 200-400 word summary introducing yourself, describing your community, and your concerns and hopes for the future of work in your community. You may include up to 3 images in this summary.
Each entry must include:
• Interview Video (3–5 minutes)
• Presentation Video (3–5 minutes)
• One-Page Written Project Summary






Todd Green,Professor
Brock University
Canada


Senior Development Officer
University of Waterloo
Canada
Are the ideas unique, creative, and reflective of independent thinking?
How engaging, clear, and persuasive is the presentation and interview video?
Are insights and examples based on credible sources and authentic interviews?
Does the project stand out for its structure, creativity, and overall impact?
Is the delivery clear, confident, and expressive in both videos?
All work must be original. Any plagiarism or uncredited AI-generated content will result in disqualification.