The Voyager Scholarship: A Pathway to Leadership and Public Service

The Voyager Scholarship for Public Service, created by President Obama and Brian Chesky, Co-Founder and CEO of Airbnb, is designed to support college students who have a passion for serving their communities, a broad vision of public service, and a commitment to making a difference. The scholarship aims to help shape the next generation of leaders who can bridge divides and address global challenges.
In an increasingly interconnected world, young leaders with empathy, understanding, and a global perspective are essential. The Voyager Scholarship reflects the shared belief of its founders both coming from different backgrounds that exposure to diverse experiences fosters cooperation and creates the foundation for meaningful change. The scholarship seeks to empower students from all walks of life who are passionate about helping others and dedicated to public service.
Program Overview
The Voyager Scholarship is a two-year leadership development program that provides students with the resources, opportunities, and support they need to launch their careers in public service. The scholarship offers a combination of financial aid, immersive travel experiences, and a network of mentors and leaders to help students refine their leadership skills and deepen their commitment to serving others.
This scholarship is aimed at students who are in their second year of undergraduate studies and will begin their third year in the Fall. Over two years, the program encourages students to build connections, explore new communities, and develop values-based leadership skills while working toward a career in public service.
What the Scholarship Offers
- Financial Aid:
- Students will receive up to $50,000 in total financial aid over the course of their junior and senior years. This will help alleviate the burden of college debt, enabling students to pursue a career in public service without financial constraints.
- Summer Voyage:
- A $10,000 stipend and free Airbnb housing allow students to design their own work-travel experience between their junior and senior years. This gives them the opportunity to gain exposure to new communities and fields of work.
- 10-Year Travel Stipend:
- After graduation, students will receive $2,000 in Airbnb travel credits each year for 10 years, totaling $20,000. This stipend supports continued travel and exploration, helping students stay connected with new communities and broaden their horizons throughout their public service careers.
- Fall Summit:
- During their junior year, students may attend an in-person summit where they can engage in community-building activities, develop leadership skills, and learn from experienced public service leaders.
- Network of Leaders:
- Throughout the program, students will have access to a network of leaders through ongoing speaker series and mentorship opportunities. After graduation, they will join The Obama Foundation’s global community, gaining continued access to Foundation resources and programming.
Who Can Apply?
The Voyager Scholarship is open to college students who:
- Are in their second year of undergraduate studies and will begin their third year in the Fall.
- Have a passion for public service and community involvement.
- Demonstrate an expansive view of what is possible through public service.
- Are committed to making a positive impact in the world.
How to Apply
Applications for the Voyager Scholarship for Public Service are now open and will close on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM Central Time (UTC-6). To learn more and submit an application, interested candidates can visit the official website.
This transformative scholarship offers students the tools, financial support, and global connections needed to succeed in public service and make a lasting impact. If you’re ready to take the next step in your leadership journey, the Voyager Scholarship could be the perfect opportunity to help you achieve your goals.