Youth Leader Fund for a World without Nuclear Weapons

The Youth Leader Fund (YLF) is an innovative learning programme aimed at equipping the leaders of the future with the knowledge, skills, and network to join global efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons – the most dangerous weapons on earth. The programme is seeking youth who are motivated to use their talents to promote change for a more peaceful and secure world.

The selected participants will receive training in general principles of nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control through online courses, with a selected cohort going on a week-long in-person study tour to Nagasaki and Hiroshima.

The future leaders will also exchange ideas with disarmament experts from think tanks, civil society organizations, media, and the diplomatic field, and will be provided with the opportunity to develop practical skills and know-how to engage and practically contribute to issues related to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control.

Importantly, participants will learn about the lessons that the survivors of the atomic bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, called hibakusha, have long been sharing with the world about the unimaginable suffering caused by nuclear weapons. As the hibakusha continue to age, it is vital that their powerful stories and appeals to eliminate nuclear weapons are carried forward by future generations.

Funding Information

• There is no registration fee for the online foundation course (eLearning modules, skill-building workshops and live webinars). All participants successfully completing the online component will receive an official certificate of completion from UNODA.
• For those selected for the study trip:
  • Travel costs to/from indicated residency to Japan in economy class fare;
  • Participation in Japan-based activities;
  • Accommodation and subsistence allowance for the duration of the study visit;
  • It is the responsibility of participants to obtain valid travel documents and visa. A valid global medical insurance is mandatory.

Eligibility Criteria 

• Age:
  • At least 18 years at the time of application
  • Not older than 29 years old at the time of application (closing date of the call for applications)
• Nationality:
  • The programme is open to nationals from all countries and territories.
• Language:
  • The programme will be conducted in English only. Proficiency in English is required to participate.

Qualifications

• No specific degree or qualification is required to apply for the programme. The programme is open to individuals from diverse educational backgrounds who have an interest in contributing to a world free of nuclear weapons and a willingness to learn.
• No previous knowledge of non-proliferation and disarmament issues is required. They encourage applications from those new to this field. Participants with journalism and media backgrounds, or those aspiring to such careers, are particularly encouraged to apply for this cohort.
• The programme may be especially suitable for students, those who have recently completed their education, and those who are early or mid-career professionals seeking to expand their knowledge and skills.

For more information, visit YLF.