Timeline
Share your changemaking journey and join a national celebration of youth-led change.
We are offering a share of £10,000 to the most powerful youth-led stories from across the UK. Changed By Us is gathering real moments of impact led by young people. If you’ve sparked a campaign, reshaped a space, or brought people together in a new way, your story matters. Submit your story for the chance to be featured in a national campaign celebrating young people who are shaping a fairer and kinder world.
Who we're we looking for
We are looking for young people aged 5 to 19 who have noticed something in their community, school, or daily life that could be better and decided to do something about it. You might have started a small project, taken a single meaningful step, created something that sparked conversation, supported someone in a moment that mattered, or gathered others around an idea. You do not need a formal organisation or a polished project. We are looking for honesty, imagination, care, courage, and the spark that shows how change begins. If you have a story about making something better, we would love to hear it.
Prize and benefits – what's in it for you?
- All eligible applicants will receive:
All eligible stories will be featured on the Changemakers.com gallery and considered for inclusion in a physical exhibition by Ashoka and our partners in 2026. Selected storytellers will receive mentoring, invitations to Ashoka community events, and opportunities to collaborate with national partners to amplify their impact.
- Up to 15 stories will:
Fifteen stories will be selected by our review panel will win a share of our £10,000 prize fund and a chance to be featured in the 2026 exhibition and accompanying national campaign.
Eligibility
Participants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Participant Age
Young people aged 5–19 living in the United Kingdom are eligible to participate.
- Residency
Participants must be based in the UK, studying or living in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.
- Exclusions
Employees and their children and grandchildren of the program partner, Ashoka, or its affiliates and participating advertising and promotion agencies are NOT eligible to apply.
- Adult Ally Requirement
All submissions for participants under 18 must be completed by an adult ally such as a teacher, youth worker, parent, or mentor who confirms consent and safeguarding compliance.
- Languages
Stories must be submitted in English or Welsh though short media in other languages may include English subtitles or translations.
Click here to read this challenge's full Terms & Conditions and Safeguarding Annex
Evaluation Criteria
Changemaker Quality:
We’re looking for young people who have seen a challenge and decided to act. Whether the project is large or small, what matters is commitment and care and the courage to take the first step.
Creativity & Originality:
Each story is unique. We value ideas that show fresh thinking, imagination, and a willingness to do things differently.
Collaboration:
Real change happens together. We’re interested in stories that show connection between young people, adult allies, educators, and communities.
Resilience:
Every changemaker faces obstacles. We celebrate perseverance, learning from setbacks, and staying true to your purpose.
Need Support?
To support you in your application journey, we have put together some resources for you:
- The How to tell a good story guide - This resource will help you understand our expectations for crafting and sharing your story.
- The FAQ page - Here, you’ll find answers to the most common questions we’ve received.
For any questions or support, please contact [email protected]
