Become a 2025 United Nations Young Leader for the SDGs
Are you a young changemaker making a difference in your community and beyond? Do you have a strong commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspiring others to take action? The United Nations Young Leaders for the SDGs program is your opportunity to be recognized for your contributions and join a global network of influential young leaders working towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
United Nations Young Leader Overview
The United Nations Young Leaders for the SDGs initiative is a flagship program under the Office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth. Every two years, the program selects 17 outstanding young leaders from across the world who are leading transformative initiatives that drive progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These young leaders serve as SDG advocates, representing youth perspectives at high-level UN events, engaging with global policymakers, and mobilizing young people to take action.
This prestigious opportunity provides global recognition, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities to empower young leaders to scale their impact and contribute to international dialogues on sustainability, peace, and human rights.
Main Benefits of United Nations Young Leader
- Global Recognition: Gain recognition as a UN Young Leader and be featured in global platforms highlighting your work.
- Engagement with the UN: Participate in high-level United Nations meetings, summits, and events, sharing youth perspectives on sustainable development.
- Networking & Collaboration: Connect with fellow young leaders, UN agencies, global policymakers, and organizations working to achieve the SDGs.
- Capacity Building: Receive mentorship, training, and access to tools that help enhance your leadership skills and expand your initiatives.
- Impact Amplification: Work closely with the UN and partners to scale your projects and amplify your efforts on a global stage.
United Nations Young Leader Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the 2025 United Nations Young Leaders for the SDGs, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Must be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Impactful Leadership: Demonstrated leadership in advancing one or more of the 17 SDGs through projects, advocacy, innovation, or entrepreneurship.
- Commitment to Change: Passion for sustainable development and a track record of mobilizing others to take action.
- Diversity & Inclusion: Open to candidates from all countries, backgrounds, and sectors. The UN seeks to ensure geographic, gender, and thematic balance.
- Ability to Engage: Willingness to participate in UN activities, media engagements, and global advocacy efforts for the SDGs.
United Nations Young Leader Application Process
The selection process is highly competitive, with thousands of applications received from all over the world. Applicants are required to submit:
- A detailed application form outlining their work, impact, and commitment to the SDGs.
- Supporting materials (videos, reports, or media features) that showcase their contributions.
- References or endorsements from mentors, community leaders, or partner organizations.
- (Optional) A short video statement explaining why they should be selected as a UN Young Leader.