Be inspired by the WorldSkills Champions Trust in Shanghai

The 11 talented young people who make up the current cohort of WorldSkills Champions Trust representatives have been the voice of youth within the WorldSkills movement for the last two years. They have brought their perspectives and experiences to high-profile conferences, industry round tables, and international discussions.

Now, here in Shanghai, they are also fulfilling the role of Dream Ambassadors for the 48th WorldSkills Competition. With this honorary title, they are travelling the city, speaking at key events, meeting young students, and advocating for skills development and excellence.

The WorldSkills Champions Trust is sharing the global stage for skills with WorldSkills leadership, Chinese dignitaries, WorldSkills Members and Global Partners, and thought leaders from across industry and education.

They will be playing a special part in the Opening and Closing Ceremonies and will also be welcoming the world’s media with a tour of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC). Here are just some of the places you can see them in action during WorldSkills Shanghai 2026:

• Meeting the world’s press and guiding journalists through the venue while sharing their own Competition memories and insights into what happens inside the workshops.
• Joining excursions and visits to local schools with One School One Member.
• Speaking to the assembled guests and dignitaries and leading the Parade of Nations at the Opening Ceremony.
• Bringing the voice of youth to panels and discussions at WorldSkills Conference 2026.
• Attending official ceremonies and signings with WorldSkills Global Partners.
• Cheering on Competitors from the Competition floor, while acting as roving reporters and broadcasting on WorldSkills channels.
• Exploring the city to see how the excitement of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 is spreading beyond the NECC.
• Presenting medals and passing on their words of encouragement to all the WorldSkills Champions for the next step of their journeys at the Closing Ceremony.

Shawna Bourke, Director of Marketing and Communications for WorldSkills International, says, “Young people speak with an authority on what young people need that no one else in the room can match. That’s why every event is stronger for having the WorldSkills Champions Trust in the room. These incredible representatives bring the same dedication and excellence to these opportunities as they did when they competed in their skill. They are why this community exists, and it’s our job to put their voices centre stage.”

Competitors who are inspired by this year’s cohort and want to follow in their footsteps can now put themselves forward to be part of the seventh WorldSkills Champions Trust cohort. Applications are now open, and the successful young people will serve from January 2027 right through to WorldSkills Aichi 2028, ensuring they play a central role in the lead-up to the next WorldSkills Competition.

The role brings a huge amount of opportunity and develops important life skills, as Mihle Mvelakubi, WorldSkills Champions Trust representative for Africa, reflects: “This has given me so much more than I ever expected. It has strengthened my confidence as a leader and advocate for skills, opened doors to connect with Champions and partners from every region, and reminded me daily why skills matter so deeply for young people and communities. Representing Africa on this platform has taught me the value of listening, collaborating across cultures, and using my own journey to inspire others.”

Champions from WorldSkills Competition 2022 Special Edition, WorldSkills Lyon 2024, and WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 who want to represent their skill and region on the global stage for skills can find out more and apply.