United Nations YOUNG LEADERS FOR THE SDGs: Call for Applications for the 2025 Cohort

EugenMarch 21, 2025

5 minutes read

United Nations YOUNG LEADERS FOR THE SDGs

The global commitment to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the year 2030 has created a ripple effect, inspiring individuals and communities to come together in pursuit of a more sustainable world. In 2025, a new cohort of exceptional young leaders will be selected to join the Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative, a prestigious program that recognizes and empowers young individuals who are making waves in their communities through innovative approaches to sustainable development, human rights, and peace and security. This initiative not only highlights the importance of youth in the SDG agenda but also provides a unique platform for young changemakers to work alongside the United Nations and other partners in accelerating SDG implementation.

About the Initiative

The Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative distinguishes 17 promising young individuals selected every two years to collaborate with the UN and its partners on impactful projects and advocacy initiatives. These young leaders become agents of change, mobilizing their peers and communities to drive progress toward a sustainable future. Given the urgency of global challenges such as climate change, social inequality, and conflicts, the role of youth leaders has never been more critical. This initiative seeks to harness their energy, creativity, and insights to shape a better world.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 2025 cohort, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Age: Candidates must be between 15 to 35 years old at the time of application.
Language Proficiency: A working-level proficiency in English is essential to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

What Are We Looking For?

The Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative seeks candidates who exemplify the following attributes:

Leadership: Ideal applicants have the unique ability to influence, inspire, and mobilize others towards meaningful action. They possess a strong vision, resilience, and the capacity to unite people around common goals, demonstrating their commitment to driving positive change in their communities and beyond.
Innovation: The initiative seeks out innovators who can think outside the box. Applicants should demonstrate a talent for developing creative and original solutions to pressing global issues in the realms of sustainable development, human rights, and peace. A fresh perspective is invaluable in tackling the complex challenges the world faces today.
Scalability: Successful candidates should show that their initiatives have the potential to grow and benefit a broader audience beyond their immediate reach. Whether through expansion, replication, or inspiring others, candidates should provide evidence of how their work can positively impact communities on a larger scale.
Impact: Applicants must present tangible and measurable outcomes stemming from their work. By utilizing data, testimonials, or documented progress, candidates should be able to demonstrate how their initiatives have created real and quantifiable change.
Presentation: Strong communication skills are crucial. Young leaders should have the ability to share their stories compellingly and engagingly, inspiring others to join their advocacy work and participate in various initiatives.

We Value Diversity

The Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative actively encourages applications from diverse groups, including young women and girls, youth with disabilities, indigenous youth, LGBTIQ+ youth, refugees, migrants, and rural youth. The initiative seeks to ensure a rich tapestry of experiences and perspectives, recognizing that diversity is key to effective leadership and meaningful progress toward the SDGs.

What to Expect

The selected cohort will embark on a two-year term from 2025 to 2027, engaging in various activities, including:

Raising awareness about the SDGs through community outreach and campaigns.
Advocating for meaningful youth engagement with the UN and promoting youth perspectives on critical global issues.
Supporting relevant UN initiatives and campaigns aimed at advancing the SDGs.
Participating in high-level events, where they will represent the voice of youth on global platforms.

Initiative Benefits

Participants in the Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative will enjoy numerous benefits, including:

A global platform to amplify their work and the opportunity to inspire others.
Access to the UN system and partnerships that can enhance their initiatives.
Capacity-building opportunities to develop skills and knowledge relevant to their advocacy efforts.
Membership in a vibrant community of changemakers committed to the SDGs.
Potential travel opportunities for key events related to the SDGs and youth engagement.

Key Responsibilities

As a Young Leader for the SDGs, participants will be expected to undertake several responsibilities, including:

Actively representing the initiative by engaging in high-profile activities, including speaking engagements, advocacy campaigns, and collaborations with other changemakers.
Participating virtually and/or in-person at selected events, both within the UN and in various global spaces, to amplify youth perspectives on pressing global issues.
Serving as youth advocates in speaking engagements, championing the priorities and concerns of young people on international platforms.
Creating and sharing compelling content that highlights their advocacy work, inspiring broader engagement on SDG issues.
Engaging collaboratively with the broader cohort and the UN Youth Office throughout their two-year term.
Submitting biannual progress reports to reflect on contributions and impact, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement.
Upholding the highest professional and ethical standards, embodying the values and principles of the United Nations.

Approximate Timeline

Here are key dates for the application process:

Applications Open: March 2025
Submission Deadline: 18 April 2025
Review Process: May – June 2025
Final Selection: July – August 2025
Announcement: September 2025

How to Apply

Interested candidates should complete the online application form by Friday, 18 April 2025, at 11:59 PM EST. It’s a chance for passionate young advocates to take one step closer to becoming global change agents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a paid position?
This role is an honorary, non-remunerated recognition. However, travel and accommodation for specific UN events may be covered.

What is the time commitment?
Selected Young Leaders are expected to engage actively in advocacy efforts and events while managing their existing studies or professional work over the two-year term.

Do I need to relocate?
No, Young Leaders will continue their impactful work from their current locations.

When will I hear back?
Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next steps in the selection process. Applicants are encouraged to subscribe to the newsletter for updates on future opportunities.

If I apply to this, can I also apply to similar opportunities?
Certainly! Candidates are encouraged to apply for any opportunities that align with their interests and goals.

The Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative is an exceptional opportunity for young individuals committed to making a difference. With the support of the United Nations, selected young leaders can amplify their impact and lead the way in creating a sustainable future for all. The world needs passionate advocates like you — take the leap and apply today!

Apply Now