Empowering the next generation of changemakers through meaningful programs that build skills, spark innovation, and create lasting community impact.
A leadership development initiative designed to cultivate thoughtful, responsible, and community-minded young leaders through civic engagement, leadership education, and collaborative learning — culminating in formal recognition as a United For Impact Youth Leadership Ambassador.
The United For Impact Youth Leadership Ambassadors Program is a leadership development initiative designed to cultivate thoughtful, responsible, and community-minded young leaders.
Through a structured program combining leadership education, civic engagement, and collaborative learning, students develop the skills, character, and confidence necessary to become positive contributors within their communities.
The program encourages students to think critically about leadership, responsibility, and service while providing meaningful exposure to real-world perspectives from community leaders, educators, and professionals.
Participants who successfully complete the program are formally recognized as United For Impact Youth Leadership Ambassadors.
Every element of the program is centered on building leaders who contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Students strengthen essential leadership abilities including communication, teamwork, decision-making, and responsible leadership.
Participants learn how to organize ideas, speak confidently before an audience, and present perspectives with clarity and professionalism.
Participants gain a deeper understanding of civic responsibility, public service, and the importance of engaged citizenship.
Students explore ways to contribute meaningfully through service, collaboration, and thoughtful leadership.
Students design a project addressing a real community need — presented at the Youth Impact Leadership Showcase at program conclusion.
Opportunities to hear directly from community leaders, nonprofit professionals, educators, and public officials actively shaping their communities.
Participants engage in a series of structured learning sessions designed to build skills that matter far beyond the program itself.
Participants may also interact with community leaders, nonprofit professionals, educators, and public officials — gaining insight into leadership in action.
Materials may be included in leadership portfolios, scholarship applications, and college admissions profiles.
Applications are now open for Youth Impact 2026. Space is limited in order to maintain a focused and meaningful leadership experience. Apply early to secure your place.
While submitting your application, you are strongly encouraged — though not required — to include a resume or document cataloging your professional and extracurricular activities.
United For Impact proudly presents the Newton Awards — STEM & Innovation Excellence Competition, a national platform where the most ambitious young scientific minds compete, collaborate, and earn prestigious recognition for work that advances science, technology, and human progress.
"Per Rigor et Integritatem ad Progressum"
Through Rigor and Integrity toward Progress
The Newton Awards is a prestigious national STEM competition that recognizes outstanding student innovators and researchers whose work advances science, technology, and human progress. Established to honor the spirit of Isaac Newton, it provides a rigorous, inclusive, and prestigious platform for students from grades 3 through 12.
Projects are evaluated by leading experts from academia, industry, and research institutions through a multi-stage review process — ensuring every submission receives serious, professional consideration.
Beyond the competition itself, recipients gain access to scholarships, the Newton Honors Society, and a prestigious alumni network. The program is also committed to inclusion — offering neurodiverse accommodations and financial assistance to ensure every talented student can compete on equal footing.
Select your track, choose your path — solo or team — then register in the division that matches your grade. Every student competes under the same transparent rubric.
For students working on projects rooted in traditional STEM disciplines — from scientific research to engineering design and environmental innovation.
For students developing artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data-driven solutions. Includes elevated weighting for responsible development and ethical considerations.
A transparent rubric applied consistently across all divisions and tracks. Every student competes knowing exactly how their work will be evaluated by a panel of at least three independent judges.
| Criterion | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific / Technical Merit | 30% | Rigor of methodology, validity of data, soundness of conclusions. |
| Originality & Innovation | 25% | Novelty of the approach; contribution to existing knowledge. |
| Clarity of Communication | 20% | Quality of written paper, poster, and oral presentation. |
| Real-World Impact | 15% | Plausibility and significance of potential applications. |
| Responsible Development | 10% | Ethical considerations, safety, and societal implications. Weighted higher in the AI Track. |
A full guide to what to expect on competition day — from registration through the awards ceremony and reception.
The Newton Awards is a platform built for the exceptional. Visit the official Newton Awards website for full competition guidelines, registration details, financial assistance information, and the Newton Honors Society.