IGC Youth Champions Fellowship Programme – Apply now!

To effectively dismantle barriers to gender equality, joining efforts of committed leaders across different generations is key. The programme seeks to amplify the voices of a vibrant generation of future leaders and highlight their role as catalysts for positive change, while providing them with a platform to advance their work and tap into the expertise of international decision-makers. Established Gender Champions, in turn, will benefit from the unique perspectives, expertise and skills of young activists.

The six-month pilot initiative will connect Geneva-based Gender Champions and six young gender equality activists from different parts of the world in a dynamic and reciprocal mentoring exchange. By transitioning away from a conventional mentoring format towards a more collaborative and inclusive exchange, the programme seeks to:

• Foster intergenerational dialogue;
• Cultivate learning opportunities for established decision-makers, who stand to gain invaluable insights, expertise and skills from young activists.

Each mentoring pair will be expected to meet at least once a month, either in-person or virtually, depending on where the activist is based. Further, each pair will feature in one of the IGC’s monthly podcast episodes to discuss actionable solutions for gender equality, and produce a shared output of their choice, whether that is co-authoring an article or organising a public discussion. Participants commit for the full duration of the 6-month programme.

Objectives

• Promoting intergenerational exchange of knowledge
• Empowering young gender equality activists
• Facilitating learning experiences for Geneva Gender Champions

Thematic Areas

• The Youth Champions Programme welcomes activists working across a variety of thematic focus areas:
  • Gender-based violence
  • Climate action
  • Women, peace & security
  • Engaging men & boys
  • Sexual & reproductive health
  • Ai & digital technologies

Programme Structure

• Six Geneva-based Gender Champions are paired up with 6 young activists or leaders for gender equality from around the world.
• The Youth Champions are selected based on their application.
• Each mentoring pair sets their goals for the exchange.
• The exchange can take place in-person or virtually, depending on the location of the Youth Champions.
• Participants commit for the full duration of the 6-month programme.

Outcomes and Expectations 

• Each mentoring pair is expected to:
  • Hold at least one mentoring meeting per month.
  • Join one of the monthly IGC podcast episodes as guests, to discuss the current challenges to gender equality and promote actionable solutions.
  • Produce an output of their choice, such as co-authoring an Op-Ed, organising a (hybrid) learning event or workshop, or developing a toolkit, among others

Eligibility Criteria

• Demonstrated history of activism in gender equality 
  • Applicants should have a proven track record of activism and community organising focused on gender equality. This can include but is not limited to involvement in grassroots movements, advocacy work, organising events, or leading initiatives within their communities.
• Inclusivity
  • The programme is open to individuals of all gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, ethnicities, religions, and geographical backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in their work.
• Language proficiency 
  • Familiarity with the English language (equivalent to level B2) is required, as the programme will be conducted in English.
• Dedicated commitment to IGC values and pledges 
  • Participants must treat everyone with respect and fairness; value diversity; create and maintain a safe working environment; and work together with the Gender Champions in the spirit of openness, honesty and transparency. Youth Champions will adhere to the IGC’s Panel Parity and GBV pledges.

For more information, visit IGC.