The Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme (CLYLP) is a fully funded capacity building programme for emerging young civil society leaders from Cambodia and Laos. It offers participants the chance to develop knowledge, skills, and confidence to contribute to sustainable development in their communities and the wider Southeast Asia region.
CLYLP is managed by UnionAID in collaboration with Khmer Farmer Products (KFP) in Cambodia, the Participatory Development Knowledge Agency (PAKA) in Laos, and Auckland University of Technology (AUT). The programme is supported by the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme Benefits
- Full funding for the programme
- Approximately 150 hours of online learning and 14 weeks in-person training
- Two courses: Sustainable Development and English for Development
- Action project implementation funding in Cambodia or Laos
- Coaching and ongoing support from UnionAID and partners
- Access to alumni network and annual conference
- Exposure to New Zealand institutions, policies, and practices
- Leadership skills workshops
- Māori cultural experience including marae stay
Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme Eligibility Criteria
- Aged 20-34 years at time of application
- Living and working in Cambodia or Laos (all provinces eligible)
- Working for a community-based organisation, CSO, or NGO
- Demonstrated experience and commitment to community development
- Intend to continue working for your organisation for at least one year after the programme
- Support from your organisation including flexibility for online study and 12 weeks leave for New Zealand
- Intermediate English proficiency (CEFR B1 / IELTS 4.5 or TOEFL 32-34)
- Available for 2 weeks full-time residential learning in November/December 2026
- Not enrolled in any other full-time courses or similar scholarship during SDC
- Hold or be able to obtain a passport from Cambodia or Laos valid until 1 January 2028
How to Apply for Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme
- Visit the official CLYLP criteria page at unionaid.org.nz/young-leaders-programmes/clylp/clylp-criteria/
- Prepare required documents and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria
- Submit your application through the provided application link
- Attend an interview where English proficiency will be assessed
- If selected, participate in the programme starting with online learning in August
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme?
The Cambodia Laos Young Leaders Programme (CLYLP) is a fully funded capacity building programme for emerging young civil society leaders from Cambodia and Laos. It includes online learning and in-person training in New Zealand, focusing on sustainable development and English for development.
Who can apply for CLYLP?
Applicants must be aged 20-34, living and working in Cambodia or Laos, working for a community-based organisation or NGO, have demonstrated community development experience, intermediate English proficiency, and be available for the full programme duration including 12 weeks in New Zealand.
What are the benefits of the programme?
The programme is fully funded and includes approximately 150 hours of online learning, 14 weeks in-person training, two courses (Sustainable Development and English for Development), action project funding, coaching, alumni network access, and exposure to New Zealand institutions and Māori culture.
When is the deadline to apply?
Applications for 2026 are open now. The deadline is 31 October 2026. Applicants must be available for a 2-week residential workshop in November/December 2026 and the New Zealand component starting in March 2027.
How do I apply for CLYLP?
Visit the official CLYLP criteria page on the UnionAID website, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, and submit your application through the provided link. English proficiency will be assessed at the interview stage.
What is the study component of CLYLP?
The study component includes approximately 150 hours of online learning and 14 weeks in person. It comprises two courses: Sustainable Development Course (SDC) and English for Development Course (EDC), combining theory and practice with applied learning.
Is English proficiency required?
Yes, intermediate English proficiency equivalent to CEFR B1 / IELTS 4.5 or TOEFL 32-34 is required. This is assessed at the interview stage, and additional English support may be available for those who need it before departure.
What is the action project component?
Participants manage a small action project in their communities after returning from New Zealand. The project is funded subject to meeting criteria and allows participants to apply learning from the programme to address a specific development challenge.
What is the alumni network like?
An alumni conference is held annually in Cambodia or Laos, bringing together alumni and new participants. Alumni also become part of the wider UnionAID young leaders network, engaging with peers from Myanmar, Indonesia, and Mindanao programmes.
Who manages the programme?
CLYLP is managed by UnionAID in collaboration with Khmer Farmer Products (KFP) in Cambodia, the Participatory Development Knowledge Agency (PAKA) in Laos, and Auckland University of Technology (AUT), with support from the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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