The global food ecosystem is at a breaking point. Solving it requires more than traditional policy, it demands a radical new generation of leadership.
The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) 2026 has officially opened applications for its second cohort. Spearheaded by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub and backed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), this is not a conventional academic exercise. It is a multi-year, elite leadership journey designed to scale the impact of young scientists, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and activists who are actively rewriting the future of agriculture, climate action, and nutrition.
Who Qualifies?
The UN is looking for proven executors, not spectators. To join this global network, applicants must meet the following baseline:
- Age Bracket: Between 18 and 35 years old.
- Geographic Focus: Nationals of low- or middle-income countries (primarily across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America/Caribbean).
- Track Record: Demonstrated leadership in food systems, climate action, or sustainable development.
- Language Proficiency: Fluent in English.
- The Commitment: A long-term dedication to fully engage in the programme’s ecosystem through 2028.
The Benefits:
Participants aren't just learning; they are gaining systemic leverage. The YLP ecosystem provides:
- Advanced Systems Thinking: Mastering the complex frameworks required to drive institutional and country-level change.
- The UN Network: Direct access to UN partners, global food systems processes, and cross-sector experts.
- Peer Power: A highly curated global network of fellow changemakers for regional and international collaboration.
- Amplified Influence: Practical tools to scale community initiatives and command a seat at global policy tables.
Apply Here:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YLP2026
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