Royal Geographical Society Young Geographer of the Year (YGY)

The Royal Geographical Society Young Geographer of the Year (YGY) is an international geography competition organized by the Royal Geographical Society (RGS) in the United Kingdom. The competition encourages students to explore global geographical issues, environmental change, human society, and sustainability through creative and research-based projects. YGY is widely recognized within British and international education systems and is open to students across multiple age groups.

YGY is typically conducted through themed project submissions based on an annual geography-related topic, such as islands, rivers, sustainability, climate change, or future cities. Students are required to create posters, StoryMaps, or research-based presentations using maps, data analysis, images, and written explanations to demonstrate their understanding of geographical issues. The competition is divided into several age categories, including KS2, KS3, KS4/GCSE, and KS5/A Level levels. Students may participate individually or through school submissions.

The competition helps students strengthen geographical analysis, research ability, data interpretation, map-based communication, and understanding of global issues. Participants develop interdisciplinary thinking by combining human and physical geography perspectives to analyze real-world challenges. YGY is particularly valuable for students interested in geography, environmental science, urban studies, sustainability, international development, public policy, and social sciences.

Participation in the Royal Geographical Society Young Geographer of the Year demonstrates strong academic interest in geography and global issues, as well as research, analytical, and communication skills. For students planning to apply to competitive programs in geography, environmental science, urban planning, sustainability, international relations, public policy, social sciences, and related interdisciplinary fields, the competition can serve as valuable evidence of academic exploration and international academic engagement in university applications.