Alumni-led projects creating positive change

The Alumni UK Grant Programme supports international UK alumni to develop and deliver projects that respond to challenges in their communities and professional sectors.

For 2026–27, the programme supports projects under two themes:

  • Climate Action and Sustainability, supporting practical, community-driven or creative responses to climate change and environmental sustainability.
  • Inclusion, Reducing Inequality & Empowerment of Underrepresented Groups, supporting initiatives that promote inclusion, expand opportunities and empower underrepresented or marginalised groups.

This year, two projects have been selected for support in France. Find out more about the projects below.

Project lead: Loïc Chave (University of Leeds)

Theme: Climate Action and Sustainability; Inclusion, Reducing Inequality & Empowerment of Underrepresented Groups

This project brings together Le Refuge Foundation, which supports LGBTQIA+ young people experiencing homelessness, discrimination and social exclusion, and CliMates France, a youth-led organisation working on climate action and social justice. Together, they will explore how climate change can deepen existing vulnerabilities, particularly for young people facing housing insecurity, poverty and isolation. Through a participatory workshop at the Académie du Climat in Paris, young people supported by Le Refuge will explore climate justice, share their experiences and co-develop recommendations for more inclusive climate policies and support services. Their contributions will inform an advocacy report and help strengthen future practice, research and education on climate and LGBTQIA+ inclusion.

Project lead: Katherine Terao (Edinburgh Napier University)

Theme: Inclusion, Reducing Inequality & Empowerment of Underrepresented Groups

MiNDkit.fr is a French non-profit organisation that helps young people aged 15–25 develop practical tools to care for their mental health and wellbeing. Building on its experience delivering practical, play-based workshops, the project will create and test a mobile-first learning experience combining short, engaging activities with real-world challenges such as grounding exercises and digital detox. Ninety young people will test the platform, with some receiving rewards from local ethical businesses alongside digital rewards. The project aims to explore whether digital learning can support positive changes in everyday habits.

The Alumni UK Grant Programme supports international graduates of UK higher education institutions to design and implement innovative projects that create meaningful impact in their communities. Through funding, guidance, and global connections, the programme enables alumni to turn ideas into action and contribute to solving today's most pressing challenges. It emphasises measurable impact, innovation, collaboration, and inclusion. 

 
Share this