Deadline: 22 February, 2020

Are you a young leader that can influence and motivate other persons? Do you have good storytelling skills and you are very innovative? If yes, then apply now for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Young Leaders Programme (UN SDG Young Leaders Programme) 2020.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the plans to get a better future for all. The SDGs helps to address the challenges we face in the world. These challenges include poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace, and justice. The UN SDG Young Leaders support one or more of the following initiatives:

• Advocate for the SDGs, 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 realisation of the SDGs;
• Contribute to a brain trust of young leaders supporting the UN and partners for key moments and initiatives related to the SDGs.

On a biennial basis, 17 new young leaders are selected through an open call for applications and rigourous assessment process. Candidates are scored on aspects such as ability to influence and motivate others, innovative nature, and storytelling skills. Their work is assessed based on scalability, impact, achievement, influence, and integrity. A high-level selection committee comprised of leaders from the UN, governments, civil society, and the private sector conduct a final review of the top candidates.

After their tenure, UN SDG Young Leaders remain involved in the initiative as alumni and collaborate and mentor the current class of UN SDG Young Leaders.

The UN SDG Young Leaders Programme is powered by the Office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth, in collaboration with their partners. The Initiative is a part of the Global Youth Partnership for Sustainable Development Goals, launched in 2015 and housed in the Envoy’s Office.