TEENAGERs making A DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD
We Are Family Foundation’s Three Dot Dash program empowers Global Teen Leaders (GTLs) who are between the ages of 13-19, working to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges and build a more peaceful future for people and the planet.
As part of the Three Dot Dash program, GTLs:
Attend the Just Peace Summit, connecting with fellow GTLs from across the globe, while gaining invaluable skills, insights, and relationships. The next summit takes place in London, September/October 2026!
Participate in a world-class, yearlong mentorship with an expert in their field.
Access year-round development tools and virtual programming designed to enhance leadership skills.
Join a global network of changemakers spanning 75+ countries and six continents.
“My experience as a Global Teen Leader has been a life-changing one. It has equipped me with the tools, knowledge, and a global support system to continue my mission of making a positive impact in the world.”
“I don’t think you can see this the way we do as Global Teen Leaders, but I am sure this will remain in the top 3 experiences of our entire lives.
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Who are 2026 global teen leaders?
In 2026, GTLs are:
13-19 years old
Working to make the world a better place
Key leaders in active social impact initiatives
Addressing climate change or creating a positive impact on the environment (see below)
Creating tangible impact in their work
Continuing their projects for at least the next two years
ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS
In 2026, WAFF is taking the Three Dot Dash Just Peace Summit to London, England — to unite young changemakers who are leading efforts to positively impact the environment and address the climate crisis
Our 2026 GTLs will be working solely on environmental issues or combining sustainability with other focus areas like education, equity, culture, creativity, health, technology, social justice, and more.
gtl experience
WAFF’s Three Dot Dash program is a dynamic, year-long mentorship and leadership development experience designed to help Global Teen Leaders (GTLs) amplify their impact. It also invests in who they are becoming—supporting personal growth, sharpening skills, building confidence, and deepening clarity of purpose so they can lead with vision and resilience.
At its core, Three Dot Dash is about belonging. The program fosters a vibrant community rooted in care, joy, and mutual support—a space where young changemakers don’t have to lead alone. GTLs build a strong sense of global citizenship alongside peers from 75+ countries and join an inspiring international alumni network that has grown since 2008.
The journey begins at the Just Peace Summit, We Are Family Foundation’s signature global gathering, where Global Teen Leaders convene in person to collaborate, strengthen their leadership, and advance environmental and climate solutions for a more just, peaceful, and sustainable world. In 2026, WAFF will host the Three Dot Dash Just Peace Summit in London in late September / early October.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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You must be between the ages of 13 – 19 at some point during 2026. Applicants who begin the year 2026 at age 12, or turn 20 during the year, are still eligible to apply!
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No. As much as we love ideas, Three Dot Dash works with ideas in motion; concepts that are already making an impact.
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Of course!
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Our application process is divided into three steps: the Pre-Application, the Main Application, and the Nominator Form.
The first step is the Pre-Application, designed to confirm that you meet the program requirements. Once you submit the Pre-Application, our Internal Selection Committee will review it within one (1) week. If your Pre-Application is approved you will move forward to the Main Application phase. -
You do not. Three Dot Dash will work with selected Global Teen Leaders to secure the necessary travel documents to attend the Just Peace Summit. While we cannot guarantee the outcome of these documents, we will do everything we can to support, including covering the associated costs.
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Applications Open: February 19, 2026
Application Deadline: March 19, 2026
Internal Selection Committee: April 2026
External Selection Committee: May 2026
Final Applicant Interviews: May 2026
Global Teen Leaders selected: June 2026
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Three Dot Dash contacts applicants on a rolling basis, so it is normal for some applicants to receive updates before others! You may email us with any questions, inquiries, or concerns.
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No. Global Teen Leaders do not receive funding as a part of Three Dot Dash.
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In 2026 we are looking for Global Teen Leaders who are leading initiatives with an environmental focus. Your work needs to be up and running, and already achieving results!
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Absolutely not. For the Just Peace Summit, all air/train travel, visa fees, hotel, meals, and ground travel in London will be paid for by We Are Family Foundation for selected GTLs.