Deadline: April 18, 2025.

The NextWave Leadership Program is Canary Impact’s youth-focused initiative, designed to support justice-involved leaders aged 18-25. This program addresses the unique challenges faced by young people disproportionately impacted by the criminal legal system, equipping them with the tools, mentorship, and community needed to transform their experiences into leadership and advocacy.​

NextWave is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for a new generation of changemakers, ready to challenge systemic inequities and reshape the future. By providing these emerging leaders with the skills and resources to overcome barriers, Canary Impact inspires a movement of resilience, innovation, and transformation.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

To apply for the NextWave Leadership Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:

1. Be 18 to 25 years old.
2. Have a history of incarceration.
3. Have an innovative idea that will lead to systemic change.
4. Reside in the U.S. and focus their work within U.S. communities.
5. Propose work that does not involve lobbying activities.
6. Have not previously received Canary Impact’s 10-for-10 Prize.

BENEDITS

1. $10,000 Financial Investment: Each program participant receives a financial award to support their leadership journey, whether through education, advocacy, or community-focused initiatives.
2. Comprehensive Leadership Development: Program participants engage in a structured curriculum that fosters personal growth, professional skills, and a deeper understanding of systemic reform.
3. Cohort Connection: Participants join a vibrant community of peers, building a supportive network that encourages collaboration, shared learning, and collective action.
4. Capacity Building for Long-Term Success: Training and mentorship empower participants with practical skills in effective communication, resilience, and leadership, preparing them to overcome systemic barriers and achieve meaningful change.

Find more information on the OFFICIAL LINK