Women Deliver 2026 Conference Offers Fully Funded Scholarships for Oceanic Pacific Youth

The Women Deliver 2026 Conference, a major global event focused on gender equality and related issues, will take place in Narrm (Melbourne), Australia, from April 27-30, 2026. To ensure diverse representation, Women Deliver is offering fully funded scholarships to young leaders from the Oceanic Pacific region. These scholarships cover all expenses, including travel, accommodation, and conference fees, providing an opportunity for marginalized voices to participate in this significant international forum.

Conference to Focus on Gender Equality, Climate Change, and Indigenous Justice

The WD2026 conference marks the first time this event will be held in the Oceanic Pacific region. Organizers anticipate over 6,500 attendees, including youth leaders, activists, and policymakers, all converging to address pressing global challenges. The conference theme, "Resist, Reimagine, Rebuild," underscores a commitment to challenging existing power structures and creating more equitable and sustainable solutions. A particular emphasis will be placed on gender equality, climate change, and justice for Indigenous communities, reflecting the unique challenges and opportunities within the Oceanic Pacific region.

Fully Funded Scholarships Aim to Amplify Marginalized Voices

The fully funded scholarships are specifically targeted at young people under 30 who are citizens or residents of Oceanic Pacific countries. The scholarship covers full conference registration, hotel accommodation from April 26 to April 30, 2026, roundtrip economy-class airfare, visa fees, a daily allowance for local transport and meals, and travel insurance. Furthermore, participants with disabilities or those under 18 requiring a guardian will receive additional support for one accompanying person.

Priority will be given to applicants from marginalized backgrounds, including First Nations youth, LGBTQIA+ youth, people with disabilities, displaced people, and young women from low-income communities. This targeted approach aims to ensure that the conference platform is accessible to those who are often excluded from global conversations.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Regional Representation

Dr. Eleanor Sterling, a cultural anthropologist specializing in gender and development in the Pacific, emphasizes the critical role of regional representation in global forums. "Including voices from the Oceanic Pacific region is not just about ticking a box for diversity," she states. "It's about ensuring that solutions are culturally relevant and address the specific needs and contexts of these communities. The Women Deliver scholarships are a vital step in empowering young leaders to shape the global agenda."

Historical Context: Addressing Gender Inequality in the Oceanic Pacific

The focus on the Oceanic Pacific region is particularly relevant given the persistent challenges to gender equality in many of these nations. While progress has been made in some areas, many countries continue to face significant disparities in education, healthcare, economic opportunity, and political representation. Cultural norms, traditional practices, and the impacts of climate change often exacerbate these inequalities. The Women Deliver conference provides a crucial platform to address these issues and promote evidence-based solutions.

Application Details and Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Women Deliver 2026 Conference Scholarships, applicants must:

Be under the age of 30 as of January 1, 2026. Be from or currently residing in one of the Oceanic Pacific countries. Be actively engaged in community work, such as volunteering, organizing, or youth leadership. Not have previously received a Women Deliver Conference scholarship.

Preference will be given to individuals from the following marginalized backgrounds:

First Nations or Indigenous communities LGBTQIA+ communities Persons with disabilities Refugees or internally displaced persons Adolescent girls and young women from low-income backgrounds

Application Process and Timeline

The application process is entirely online. Interested candidates should:

Visit the official Women Deliver 2026 Scholarships page. Carefully review the eligibility criteria and application instructions. Gather all required information and documents. Complete the online application form in one sitting, avoiding the use of translation tools. Submit the application before the deadline: August 10, 2025.

Successful applicants will be notified by November 2025.

Scholarship Deadline

The deadline for applications is August 10, 2025.

Current Context: Scholarship Opportunities and Global Development Goals

The Women Deliver scholarships align with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By supporting the participation of young leaders from the Oceanic Pacific region, the scholarships contribute to building a more inclusive and sustainable future. This initiative also reflects a broader trend of increased investment in scholarship programs aimed at promoting equity and access to educational and professional development opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Analytical Viewpoint: Building Capacity for Long-Term Impact

According to Sarah Johnson, a development economist specializing in scholarship programs, "The true impact of scholarships like these extends far beyond the conference itself. By investing in the leadership potential of young people from marginalized communities, Women Deliver is fostering a new generation of change-makers who will drive progress in their own communities for years to come. The key is to provide ongoing support and mentorship to these scholars, ensuring that they have the resources and networks they need to succeed."