Young people, mentors, colleagues and partners, from across MCR Pathways mentoring community, have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience in the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games.

While the Games will showcase world-class athletic performance, Glasgow Generation 2026 is focused on something bigger: ensuring the next generation of Glasgow is seen, heard, and has a meaningful role in shaping the city’s future. It’s time to step up, make your mark and shape what comes next.

About the programme

Anyone between the ages of 18–25 in Glasgow can apply. With just 10 places for the MCR Pathways community available, from a total cohort of 96 participants, this highly competitive programme brings together participants from across Glasgow, reflecting the city’s diverse communities, cultures, and ambitions.

Delivered by Common Purpose, the programme takes place in June and gives participants direct access to athletes, civic leaders, and organisations shaping Glasgow’s future. Participants will step into decision-making environments rarely seen by the public, exploring how sport, creativity, and leadership intersect to drive change.

The cohort will work collaboratively to produce a public-facing creative showcase, including film, spoken word, and installation, capturing the voices and perspectives of their generation.

What participants will explore

• How decisions are made in the city, and who influences them
• Identity, values, and personal leadership style
• Communication, confidence, and self-expression
• Collaboration across diverse communities and perspectives

The experience is designed to help build confidence, resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills inspired by high-performance environments in sport and beyond. Participants will also expand their networks, connect with peers across Glasgow, and engage with perspectives and spaces they would not normally access.

This amazing opportunity aligns at the heart of MCR Pathways’ mission of supporting young people to both see and achieve their full potential through long-term, volunteer trusted adult mentoring relationships. Experiences gained from initiatives, like the Glasgow 2026 Generation Programme, complement this work by supporting young people to see their potential, believe in themselves and grasp opportunities on paths to sustained, positive futures.

MCR Pathways joins Wheatley Group, Ryder and Glasgow Caledonian University, as project sponsors.

Sharon McIntyre, CEO of MCR Pathways, said: “People make Glasgow – it’s a city like no other. From our beginnings in Glasgow, MCR Pathways has always championed aspirational journeys. We know success is never a sprint and seldom achieved alone. It takes teamwork, resilience and consistent, transformational mentorship to help young people and athletes alike in realising their potential. Glasgow Generation 2026 brings that to life by amplifying the voices of 18–25-year-olds across the city, using sport as a lens to explore identity, community and civic pride, while showcasing their creativity and ambition to an international audience and creating a lasting legacy beyond the Games.”

Marie Mohan, Managing Director – Social Value,  Common Purpose, said: “Glasgow Generation 2026 aligns perfectly with Common Purpose’s commitment to invest in the next generation of young leaders.   We are delighted to be part of the All In family and to be working alongside Glasgow Caledonian University, MCR Pathways, Ryder Architecture and Wheatley Group to give young Glaswegians the opportunity to meet both athletes and many of those involved in shaping the Games.  And more importantly, give young people a platform on which to share their aspirations for the impact of the Games on the city.”

How you can get involved

Anyone between the ages of 18–25 in Glasgow who are interested in taking part in future Common Purpose programmes are encouraged to apply as soon as possible online: https://commonpurpose.org/legacy/glasgow-generation#anchor1