Call for Applications: Young Leaders for the SDGs Initiative

Every two years, 17 young leaders are selected to work with the United Nations and partners to accelerate SDG implementation and engage young people in the areas of sustainable development, human rights, and peace and security.

Objectives

• Raise awareness about the SDGs
• Advocate for young people to meaningfully engage with the UN
• Support relevant UN initiatives and campaigns
• Participate in high-level events.

Benefits

• Global platform to amplify your work
• Access to UN system and partners
• Capacity-building opportunities
• Join a community of changemakers
• Travel opportunities for key events.

Role and Responsibilities

• As a Young Leader for the SDGs, you are expected to:
  • Actively represent the Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative by engaging in high-profile activities over the course of the two-year term, including participating in speaking engagements, advocacy campaigns, and other strategic collaborations.
  • Participate virtually and/or in-person at select events, both at the United Nations and in other global spaces, to amplify youth perspectives on global issues.
  • Serve as a youth advocate in various speaking engagements recommended by the UN Youth Office, championing youth priorities on international platforms.
  • Create and share compelling content to highlight your advocacy work and inspire broader engagement.
  • Actively engage with the broader cohort and the UN Youth Office throughout the full two-year term.
  • Submit biannual progress reports to reflect on your contributions and impact.
  • Uphold the highest professional and ethical standards, embodying the values and principles of the United Nations.

Eligibility Criteria

• Age at the time of application: 15-35 years old
• Working-level proficiency in English.

Selection Criteria

• Leadership: You have the ability to influence, inspire, and mobilize others toward meaningful action. You demonstrate a strong vision, resilience, and the capacity to bring people together to drive change in your community and beyond.
• Innovation: You think outside the box and develop creative, original solutions to pressing challenges. Your approach is fresh, unique, and brings new perspectives in the areas of sustainable development, human rights and/or peace and security.
• Scalability: Your work has the potential to grow and benefit others beyond its current reach. Whether through expansion, replication, or inspiration, your impact can extend to new communities and contexts, further advancing the SDGs.
• Impact: You can show tangible and measurable outcomes directly resulting from your work. Through data, testimonials, or clear progress, you demonstrate how your efforts are creating real change.
• Presentation: You have the ability to inspire and engage others through storytelling. Your passion and communication skills allow you to share your journey in a way that motivates action and fosters collaboration.

For more information, visit United Nations.