The United Nations is looking for 17 exceptional young people who are making a difference in their communities and driving action for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). If that sounds like you, this could be your moment to shine.
What is the Young Leaders for the SDGs Programme?
Every two years, the United Nations selects 17 inspiring young leaders from around the world who are working to make real change in areas like education, climate action, health, social justice, innovation, and more.
As a Young Leader, you’ll:
- Promote the SDGs through advocacy, storytelling, and partnerships
- Join global conversations at major UN and international events
- Inspire and mobilize others in your community and online
- Work with the UN on youth-focused initiatives and campaigns
- Represent youth voices in global decision-making spaces
Programme Details
- Term: 2 years (2025–2027)
- Start Date: Mid-2025
- Type: Volunteer-based leadership programme
- Location: Global, with potential travel to UN events
What You’ll Gain
- A global platform to amplify your work and advocacy
- Access to the United Nations system and its partners
- Training and capacity-building opportunities
- A supportive community of global changemakers
- Travel opportunities to participate in global events
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you:
- Are between 15 and 35 years old
- Speak and understand English well enough to engage at the global level
- Are already working on a project, movement or initiative aligned with the SDGs
- Are committed to integrity, leadership and collaboration
The UN encourages applications from all backgrounds — especially young women and girls, youth with disabilities, LGBTIQ+ youth, indigenous youth, migrants, refugees, and those from rural communities.
How to Apply
- Complete the application form before Friday, 18 April 2025 at 11:59 PM EST
- For full details, download the Overview of the 2025 Call for Applications
- Apply directly via the official website below:
Don’t Qualify Yet? Here’s How You Can Qualify
If you’re passionate about social change but haven’t started any projects yet — don’t worry. You can still prepare for future opportunities like this by learning how to lead community initiatives or social impact projects. Start by taking short online courses or joining youth leadership programmes. Here are some free or affordable options:
Want more opportunities like this? Be the first to know when internships, bursaries, and leadership programmes open.