The Youth Leadership Programme is a global initiative by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub that empowers emerging leaders to drive food systems transformation. It offers systems thinking training, mentorship, and access to a worldwide network of peers and experts, helping participants create sustainable change in their communities and countries.
The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), leads this programme. It builds on the success of its first cohort, expanding a network of young leaders working across policy, science, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and community action to advance food systems transformation.
Benefits of Youth Leadership Programme 2026
- Systems thinking and leadership skills
- Access to a global network of peers and experts
- Opportunities for collaboration and peer learning
- Practical tools to strengthen impact and influence
- Exposure to global food systems processes and partnerships
Eligibility Criteria for the Youth Leadership Programme 2026
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be proficient in English
- Be a national of a low- or middle-income country, particularly in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean
- Demonstrate experience in food systems, sustainable development, climate action, or related fields
- Have experience leading or contributing to initiatives within their community, organization, institution, or sector
- Be committed to participating fully in programme activities through 2028
How to Apply for the Youth Leadership Programme 2026
- Visit the official application page on SurveyMonkey
- Complete the online application form
- Submit your application before the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Youth Leadership Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Youth Leadership Programme?
The Youth Leadership Programme is a global initiative led by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It equips young leaders with skills, networks, and systems approaches to drive food systems transformation.
Who can apply for the Youth Leadership Programme?
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old, proficient in English, and a national of a low- or middle-income country, especially in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean. They should have experience in food systems, sustainable development, or related fields.
What are the benefits of the Youth Leadership Programme?
Participants gain systems thinking and leadership skills, access to a global network of peers and experts, opportunities for collaboration and peer learning, practical tools to strengthen impact, and exposure to global food systems processes and partnerships.
When is the application deadline for the Youth Leadership Programme?
The application deadline is 13 July 2026. All applications must be submitted by this date to be considered for the second cohort.
How do I apply for the Youth Leadership Programme?
You can apply by visiting the official application page on SurveyMonkey at the link provided on the UN Food Systems Hub website. Complete the online application form and submit it before the deadline.
Is the Youth Leadership Programme fully funded?
Yes, the programme is fully funded. It covers all costs for selected participants, including training, mentorship, and access to global networks, though specific financial details are not listed on the page.
What is the duration of the Youth Leadership Programme?
Participants must be committed to participating fully in programme activities through 2028. The programme is a leadership journey that extends over several years.
Can I apply if I am not from a low- or middle-income country?
The programme particularly encourages applications from nationals of low- or middle-income countries, especially in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean. Other applicants may not be eligible.
What kind of experience is required to apply?
Applicants should demonstrate experience in food systems, sustainable development, climate action, or related fields, and have experience leading or contributing to initiatives within their community, organization, institution, or sector.
Who supports the Youth Leadership Programme?
The programme is led by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub and supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It is a global initiative aimed at building a network of emerging leaders.
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