Building Tomorrow Scholarship 2024: Supported by Holcim

About the Scholarship

Safely unlocking the potential of artificial intelligence is crucial to ensuring the sustainable development of urban environments in a rapidly evolving world. Optimised efficiency, precision, and the use of disruptive technologies have the potential to propel the construction industry forward at an unprecedented rate, but these technologies must also ensure the sustainability and resilience of these advancements. Energy optimisation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly design are some of the many areas in which AI can help mitigate the environmental impact of urban environments. Equally, as the impacts of climate change intensify, proactively identifying risks through predictive analytics and fortifying infrastructure against natural disasters become essential.

At Holcim, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to shape the future of building and make it work for people and the planet. However, we acknowledge that these technologies must be deployed responsibly to ensure that development remains sustainable and equitable, and to mitigate potential societal risks. Collaborative efforts involving all sectors are crucial to establishing regulatory frameworks and ethical guidelines to harness AI for sustainable development effectively.

In line with this, Holcim is pleased to partner once again with One Young World to offer the Building Tomorrow Scholarship. Through real-world case studies, virtual reality experiences, and engaging conversations led by Holcim experts, we will focus on broadening the conversation around AI and its uses in promoting sustainability and urban resilience.

The programme will enable an interdisciplinary cohort of five young leaders to participate in the upcoming One Young World Summit 2024 in Montréal (Tiohtià:ke) as part of Holcim’s global delegation. In particular, this scholarship will support young leaders who are making an impact in one of the following areas:

• Deploying disruptive AI technologies for sustainable construction e.g. improving operational efficiency, material selection, waste management, environmentally-friendly building designs, or energy efficiency.
• Employing AI solutions to enhance urban resilience e.g. in disaster prediction and management, traffic management systems, infrastructure maintenance, or climate adaptation planning.
• Ensuring the responsible deployment of AI in urban development, e.g. by establishing regulatory and policy frameworks, community engagement and awareness initiatives, or fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.

Scholars will receive

• Access to the One Young World Summit 2024 in Montréal, Canada which takes place from 18 – 21 September.
• Hotel accommodation in Montréal between 17 – 22 October.
• Travel to and from Montréal (economy).
• All meals covered (includes breakfast, lunch and dinner on conference days).
• Ground transport that may be required between Summit accommodation and the Summit venue.
• Pre-programme in Montréal.

In addition, scholars will receive a unique opportunity to join the Holcim community, extend their network, and meet passionate young changemakers. Holcim will support them and guide them throughout the Summit experience and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidates must be:

• Aged 18 – 30*
• Making a positive impact in one of the scholarship’s three focus areas:
  • Deploying AI technologies for sustainable construction;
  • Employing AI solutions for urban resilience;
  • Responsible deployment of artificial intelligence in urban development.