The UNICEF Young Pasifika Wayfinders 2026 programme offers adolescent boys across the Pacific a unique opportunity to engage in youth advocacy, influence regional initiatives, and contribute to programmes that impact children and communities. Designed for young leaders aged 15–19, this initiative provides a platform to amplify youth voices while building skills in leadership, communication, and social impact.
About the Program
The Young Pasifika Wayfinders (YPW) is a regional advisory group launched by UNICEF in 2025 to ensure that adolescent boys are actively involved in shaping programmes, campaigns, and advocacy efforts across the Pacific.
The initiative focuses on meaningful youth participation by engaging boys directly in conversations and actions around issues that affect their lives. Members work alongside UNICEF and other youth organisations to co-create solutions, challenge harmful stereotypes, and promote positive, inclusive models of masculinity.
The programme covers a wide range of topics relevant to young people in the Pacific, including mental health, gender equality, bullying prevention, online safety, education, and healthy relationships. It also addresses emerging challenges such as climate change, rising health concerns, and social inequalities.
The next phase of the programme will run from July 2026 to December 2027, and UNICEF is currently expanding its membership to include new participants from across the region.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Youth voices—especially those of boys and young men—are often underrepresented in discussions around social change and development. This programme directly addresses that gap by creating a structured platform for adolescent boys to participate in decision-making processes that affect their communities.
By engaging youth in advocacy and programme design, UNICEF is strengthening community-led solutions and ensuring that interventions are relevant, inclusive, and effective. The initiative also contributes to broader efforts to redefine masculinity in the Pacific, promoting values such as respect, equality, and emotional wellbeing.
For participants, this is more than a volunteer role—it is an opportunity to contribute to real change while developing a strong sense of purpose and leadership.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants in the Young Pasifika Wayfinders programme will gain valuable personal and professional development opportunities.
Members receive training and mentorship from regional experts in youth advocacy, public speaking, and leadership. They also participate in workshops covering key topics such as mental health, digital safety, gender equality, and social impact.
In addition to skill-building, participants will have opportunities to engage in regional and national events, collaborate with other youth networks, and contribute to campaigns and initiatives that reach a wide audience.
All programme-related costs are covered by UNICEF, including travel, accommodation, meals, and visas for in-person workshops. This ensures that participants can fully engage in the experience regardless of their financial situation.
Through their involvement, members will also strengthen their confidence, expand their networks, and gain hands-on experience in advocacy and community engagement.
Who Can Apply
This opportunity is open to adolescent boys aged 15 to 19 years.
Applicants must be from one of the following UNICEF Pacific Island countries: Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, or Vanuatu.
Young people living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, and UNICEF provides full support to ensure accessibility and inclusion throughout the programme.
Eligible Areas
The programme is specifically designed for youth from Pacific Island countries supported by UNICEF. Participation includes both online engagement and in-person regional activities within the Pacific.
Application Process and Deadline
Interested applicants are encouraged to review the programme details and eligibility criteria before completing the application form.
Shortlisted candidates under the age of 18 will be required to provide parental or guardian consent. Selected participants must also commit to the full duration of the programme, which runs for approximately 18 months.
The application period is open from 15 April to 30 April 2026. Late applications will not be considered. Learn more and apply on the official UNICEF Pacific Islands website.
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