Island’s Shawn Mendes and the Shawn Mendes Foundation (SMF) have partnered with the nonprofit organization Global Citizen Year to launch the Global Citizen Academy.

As a first-of-its kind program, the Global Citizen Academy was designed in partnership with Minerva Project and offers accredited courses to high school graduates from around the globe. The Academy will feature curriculum and high profile speakers focused on a range of social issues including racial justice, climate change and human rights.

Additionally, SMF will provide $250k in need-based scholarships for applicants and Mendes will serve as Global Youth Chair. He will be amplifying the opportunity to recruit applicants providing mentorship opportunities and helping curate the list of guest speakers for the Academy’s Leadership In Action series, which will be announced over the coming weeks.

“Our world needs young leaders now more than ever,” says Mendes. “It’s been truly inspiring to watch so many young activists use their voices. By working with Global Citizen Academy, my hope is that we can empower many more young people around the world with the resources and tools they need to make an impact.”

Abby Falik, Global Citizen Year Founder & CEO, adds, “We’re thrilled to partner with Shawn and his Foundation to launch Global Citizen Academy: a powerful new pathway for young people who are ready to get in the arena, level up and lead.”

Global Citizen Academy is accepting applications until 7/30. For information about SMF, including how to donate, click here.