Launched by the United Nations the Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals are exceptional young people who are leaders in the effort to end poverty, combat climate change and reduce inequalities.

Who can apply
Young people from 15 to 29 years old, from around the world, and across many different issues, who are leading positive change towards a sustainable future.
The 17 chosen Young Leaders will work with the UN Envoy on Youth, Jayathma Wickramanayake, to engage young people in the Sustainable Development Goals, advocate for their achievement and contribute to a brain trust supporting the UN’s advocacy efforts to mobilise young people.

Successful candidates will be selected based on their:
– demonstrated achievements in promoting and advancing sustainable development;
– peronal influence within their respective fields and reputation for inclusive and innovative leadership;
– demonstrated integrity, commitment to the SDGs and core values of the UN.

How does it work
Selected leaders will come together as a community to support efforts to engage young people in the realization of the SDGs both through strategic opportunities with the UN and through their existing initiatives, platforms and networks.
They will be expected to actively support one or more of the following objectives:
– Advocate for the Goals, in ways most accessible and relatable to young people across different contexts;
– Promote innovative ways of engaging their audiences and peers in the advocacy and realization of the Goals;
– Contribute to a brain trust of young leaders supporting the UN and partners for key moments and initiatives related to the Goals.Successful applicants are expected to continue in their existing roles and serve as Young Leaders in an advocacy role.

Being a Young Leader is not a full time role but an advocacy function which should complement existing work.
The function is honorary, non-remunerated and does not entail speaking on behalf of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth or the United Nations.

Deadline to apply: 7 April 2022.

Find out more here.