HMDT Next Gen Ambassador Programme

 

 

 

 

 

 

Following the success of our inaugural cohort, applications are now open for the second year of the Holocaust Memorial Day Trust (HMDT) Next Gen Ambassador Programme. 

The HMDT Next Gen Ambassador Programme is a prestigious leadership programme for passionate 18–25-year-olds who want to make a real difference. It brings together young people from across the UK to explore the history of the Holocaust, the Nazi persecution of other groups, and where persecution led in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. The programme equips them with the knowledge, confidence and skills to challenge identity-based hatred and prejudice today. 

Over a mix of in-person and interactive online sessions, you’ll hear from leading experts, survivors, educators and campaigners, developing a deeper understanding of where prejudice can lead when it goes unchallenged.

APPLY HERE

But this programme is about far more than learning history. 

You’ll develop practical skills in public speaking, leadership and event planning before putting them into practice by designing and delivering your own Holocaust Memorial Day activity or event. Whether that’s in your school, university, workplace or local community, you’ll become part of a growing network of young people committed to creating a future free from identity-based hatred and persecution. 

Our first cohort has already delivered educational workshops, community events, parliamentary discussions and awareness campaigns, reaching hundreds of people across the UK. Previous ambassadors have already made a significant impact including: 

Joseph who spoke at the UK Holocaust Memorial Day National Ceremony said: “Being who I am and simply loving who I love isn’t a choice, but hatred is.” 

Molly who wrote an article for The Big Issue. 

Libi and Dani hosting a Holocaust Memorial Day event in collaboration with Waging Peace. 

Antonio hosted a Holocaust Memorial Day event for his local church group, expanding to university students from across the local campuses. 

Now, we’re looking for the next group of ambassadors to continue that legacy. 

As an HMDT Next Gen Ambassador, you’ll receive: 

• An opening seminar in London, meeting your fellow cohort and learning about what the programme entails. 

• Seven expert-led online learning sessions exploring the Holocaust, the Nazi persecution of other groups, and the genocides recognised by the UK Government. 

• Exclusive opportunities to hear directly from Holocaust and genocide survivors alongside internationally recognised experts. 

• Practical training in leadership, public speaking and event planning. 

• One-to-one mentoring and support to help you design and deliver your own Holocaust Memorial Day activity or event. 

• An in-person graduation celebration with special guests and VIPs. 

• Membership of a growing network of HMDT Next Gen Ambassador alumni committed to remembrance, education and challenging prejudice. 

What we ask of you 

We’re looking for ambitious, committed, thoughtful and compassionate young people who want to make a lasting difference. 

As a HMDT Next Gen Ambassador, you’ll be expected to: 

• Attend the opening seminar, all monthly online learning sessions and the graduation ceremony. 

• Design, organise or support at least one Holocaust Memorial Day activity or event. 

• Contribute positively to an inclusive and respectful learning community. 

• Use what you learn to educate others, challenge prejudice and inspire meaningful conversations within your own communities. 

• Continue championing Holocaust Memorial Day beyond the programme, becoming part of a growing movement of young leaders committed to remembrance and creating positive change. 

Programme Dates 

All sessions take place online, with the exception of the Opening Seminar and Graduation Ceremony, which will be held in person. 

Please note that dates and times are subject to change. 

• Opening Seminar (In Person) – Sunday 18 October 2026 | 10:30am – 4:00pm 

• Session Two – Wednesday 11 November 2026 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Session Three – Wednesday 9 December 2026 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Session Four – Wednesday 6 January 2027 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Session Five – Wednesday 10 February 2027 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Session Six – Wednesday 10 March 2027 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Session Seven – Wednesday 14 April 2027 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Session Eight – Wednesday 05 May 2027 | 5:30–7:00pm 

• Graduation (In Person) – Thursday 20 May 2027 (5:30pm onwards, location TBC) 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Who do I contact if I have questions about the programme? 

Please contact HMDT’s Education and Youth Outreach Officer at [email protected], who will be happy to help. 

What happens after I graduate? 

Graduating is just the beginning. 

All graduates will be invited to continue their involvement with HMDT through the alumni network. Here, graduates will be given information of events, volunteering opportunities and continue to support the growth of the Next Gen programme by mentoring new cohorts of ambassadors.  

I’m not 18 yet. Can I still apply? 

If you will be 18 by 1 September 2026, you are welcome to apply. If offered a place, you will be asked to provide proof of your age. 

Unfortunately, if you will not be 18 by this date, we encourage you to apply for a future cohort. 

I’m not sure I’ll be able to attend every session. Should I still apply? 

Next Gen Ambassadors are expected to commit fully to the programme and to attend all sessions both in-person and online. 

We understand that unexpected circumstances can arise. If you’re unable to attend a session, please let the Education and Youth Outreach Officer know as soon as possible so we can discuss your situation. 

Repeated absences without prior discussion may result in your place on the programme being withdrawn, as each session builds on the previous one and contributes to the experience of the wider cohort.  

HMDT reserves the right to remove a participant from the programme if the fail to attend multiple sessions. 

What if I need help organising my Holocaust Memorial Day activity? 

You won’t be doing it alone. 

Throughout the programme you’ll receive guidance from the Education and Youth Outreach Officer, as well as mentoring and support from the HMDT team to help turn your ideas into a meaningful and impactful event. 

Applications are now open. 

APPLICATION FORM

Application deadline: Friday 18 September