ASEAN–Japan Young Environmental Leaders Network (AJYELN) 2.0 2026: Fully Funded Youth Programme for Plastic Action, Innovation & Regional Impact

The ASEAN–Japan Young Environmental Leaders Network (AJYELN) 2.0 2026 is now open for applications, offering an exciting and impactful opportunity for young changemakers across ASEAN countries and Japan to lead innovative solutions addressing plastic pollution.

With the theme “Youth for a Plastic-Resilient Region: Action. Innovation. Transformation.”, this programme goes beyond awareness by empowering youth to design, implement, and scale real-world environmental projects. It combines funding, training, mentorship, and regional collaboration to nurture the next generation of environmental leaders.

This initiative is organized by the ASEAN-Japan Centre and aims to build a network of young leaders committed to tackling the growing plastic pollution crisis in the region.

About the AJYELN 2.0 Programme

The ASEAN–Japan Young Environmental Leaders Network (AJYELN) is a regional platform that brings together youth leaders from ASEAN Member States and Japan to develop and implement community-driven environmental solutions.

The programme focuses specifically on plastic pollution and sustainability, encouraging participants to move from ideas to action by launching projects that create measurable impact.

Each year, 11 teams (one per ASEAN country and Japan) are selected to become fellows and receive funding and support to implement their initiatives.

Programme Theme for 2026

The 2026 edition focuses on:

“Youth for a Plastic-Resilient Region: Action. Innovation. Transformation.”

Applicants are expected to design projects that contribute to:

• Marine plastic waste reduction

• Plastic pollution management

• Waste and wastewater systems

• Circular economy solutions for plastics

Types of Projects Encouraged

Applicants should propose initiatives that incorporate:

1. Community Engagement

   • Mobilizing local communities

   • Driving behavioral change

2. Awareness Initiatives

   • Campaigns and educational outreach

   • Promoting sustainable practices

3. Capacity Building and Collaboration

   • Networking and partnerships

   • Strengthening local environmental action

Projects must be practical, community-based, and impact-driven, rather than purely research-focused.

Benefits of Joining AJYELN

Selected fellows will gain access to a comprehensive support system that includes:

1. Seed Funding

• Up to 100,000 JPY per team to implement environmental projects

2. Training and Capacity Building

• Leadership training

• Project management training

• Online self-paced learning modules

3. Mentorship and Guidance

• Continuous support throughout project implementation

• Expert feedback and advisory

4. Regional Networking

• Join a network of youth leaders across ASEAN and Japan

• Collaborate with peers and professionals

5. International Exposure

• Participate in in-person training in Jakarta, Indonesia

• Attend the AJYELN Symposium (2027)

Key Dates and Timeline

Applicants must take note of the following timeline:

Application Phase

• Application Opens: 6 March 2026

• Application Deadline: 15 April 2026

Selection Process

• Shortlisted Announcement: 15 May 2026

• Interviews (Pitching): 22 May 2026

• Final Selection Announcement: 5 June 2026

Programme Timeline

• Online Training: June – July 2026

• In-Person Training (Jakarta): 11–13 August 2026

• Seed Funding Disbursement: 30 August 2026

• Project Implementation: September – December 2026

• Final Reports Deadline: 31 January 2027

• Capstone Symposium: March 2027

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A team of 2–3 members

• Aged 18–25 years old

• Citizens of ASEAN Member States or Japan

• Proficient in conversational English

• Passionate about environmental and social impact

Applicants do not need to be university students—youth from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Application Requirements

To apply, applicants must submit:

1. Completed application form

2. Passport or citizenship ID (for each team member)

3. Team profile and background

4. Project proposal (using official template)

5. 1-minute pitch video (uploaded online with a shareable link)

Applications must be submitted via:
https://bit.ly/join_AJYELN2026

Ensure all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Motivation and experience (20%)

• Project feasibility (30%)

• Impact potential (30%)

• Creativity and innovation (20%)

Programme Commitment

Selected fellows must:

• Participate in all training sessions

• Implement their project within the timeline

• Submit financial and impact reports

• Attend the final symposium

Failure to comply may require reimbursement of funding and program costs.

Why You Should Apply

The AJYELN 2.0 programme offers a unique opportunity to:

• Turn your ideas into real environmental impact

• Gain hands-on leadership and project experience

• Access funding and mentorship

• Build a regional and international network

• Contribute to solving one of the region’s biggest challenges—plastic pollution

This is more than a programme—it is a platform to lead change, innovate solutions, and inspire communities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is AJYELN?

AJYELN is a regional network of young environmental leaders working to combat plastic pollution across ASEAN and Japan.

2. Can I apply as an individual?

No. Applicants must apply as a team of 2–3 members.

3. Do I need to be a university student?

No. Youth from all backgrounds are eligible as long as they meet the age and other requirements.

4. Can the funding be used for research?

No. Projects must focus on community engagement, awareness, and capacity building, not research-only activities.

5. Is the programme fully funded?

Yes. The programme provides seed funding, training, and support, but participants must ensure availability for required activities.

6. Can team members be changed after selection?

No. Teams must remain unchanged after acceptance.

7. What happens if I withdraw?

Participants may withdraw, but may need to repay funding and associated costs.

8. What language is used?

The programme is conducted in English.

Learn more about AJYELN 2026 HERE.

Discover more global Fellowship opportunities on OFY HERE.