The United Nations is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Youth Leadership Programme (YLP), a global initiative organized in collaboration with the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
The United Nations Youth Leadership Programme is a fully sponsored leadership development opportunity designed to equip young changemakers with the knowledge, networks, and practical skills required to create lasting impact in their communities, institutions, and countries.
Program Summary
- Host: United Nations
- Category: Training Programme
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Full Sponsorship | Practical Training | Certification | Mentorship | Global Exposure
- Deadline: July 13, 2026
Program Details
The United Nations Food Systems Coordination Hub, with support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), has opened applications for the second cohort of its Youth Leadership Programme (YLP). This international initiative is designed to empower young leaders who are passionate about advancing sustainable and resilient food systems across the world.
Rather than being a conventional training programme, the YLP offers a transformative leadership experience that enables participants to strengthen their leadership capacity, expand their professional networks, and apply systems-thinking approaches to address complex challenges. Through mentorship, peer-to-peer learning, collaboration with experts, and engagement with UN partners, participants will gain practical experience while becoming part of a global community dedicated to building more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient food systems.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the United Nations Youth Leadership Programme, applicants must:
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Demonstrate proficiency in the English language
- Be a citizen of a low- or middle-income country, particularly in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean
- Have experience in food systems, climate action, sustainable development, or related sectors
- Show evidence of leading or contributing to initiatives within a community, institution, organization, or professional sector
- Be willing to actively participate in programme activities through 2028
The United Nations strongly encourages applications from:
- Young farmers
- Entrepreneurs
- Policy advocates
- Researchers
- Science communicators
- Indigenous and local community representatives
- Civil society leaders
Program Benefits
Successful participants of the United Nations Youth Leadership Programme will receive:
- Full sponsorship for programme participation
- Leadership and systems-thinking training
- Access to a global network of peers and experts
- Mentorship and professional development opportunities
- Collaborative learning and partnership opportunities
- Practical tools to increase impact and influence
- Exposure to global food systems initiatives and international partnerships
- Certificate of participation
Required Documents
To apply for this programme, applicants should prepare:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Personal and professional background information
- Evidence of leadership or community engagement experience
- Any additional information required during the online application process
How to Apply
To apply for the United Nations Youth Leadership Programme:
- Visit the official application webpage
- Complete the online application form
- Provide all required information and supporting details
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Await further communication from the programme organizers
To begin the application process, click HERE
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