If you’re passionate about sustainable cities, youth empowerment, and global collaboration, this opportunity with UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Youth could be a powerful stepping stone in your journey. The Project Officer (Fellow Engagement) role within the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) offers a unique chance to work at the intersection of urban innovation, global youth leadership, and sustainable development—all from anywhere in the world.
About SDSN and Its Global Mission
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), established in 2012 under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General, is a global initiative dedicated to mobilizing scientific and technological expertise to drive sustainable development.
Its key objectives include:
- Supporting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Advancing the Paris Climate Agreement
- Promoting integrated solutions to global economic, environmental, and social challenges
- Encouraging global collaboration and knowledge-sharing
About SDSN Youth
Launched in 2015, SDSN Youth is a dynamic global platform designed to empower young people to lead sustainable development initiatives.
Its focus areas include:
- Raising awareness about sustainable development
- Building youth capacity through training and mentorship
- Encouraging advocacy and collaboration across borders
- Supporting global data partnerships for development
About the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF)
The Local Pathways Fellowship is a 10-month training and peer-learning program that equips young urban leaders with the tools to create impactful, localized solutions for sustainable cities.
Through this fellowship, participants:
- Learn how to localize SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities)
- Collaborate with peers and local authorities
- Design and implement innovative urban projects
- Contribute to building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities
Role Overview: Project Officer (Fellow Engagement)
As a Project Officer, you will play a central role in enhancing the experience and engagement of fellows across the LPF network. You’ll operate within a global, virtual team and contribute to three core pillars:
1. Content & Training
- Support training initiatives that empower fellows to localize SDGs
- Help fellows build practical skills in sustainable urban development
2. Visibility & Engagement
- Strengthen a global network of 240+ young urban leaders
- Promote youth voices in international discussions
- Enhance the visibility of LPF and its impact
3. Administration & Management
- Ensure smooth program operations
- Maintain databases and communication channels
- Support long-term scalability of the fellowship
Key Responsibilities
Fellow Engagement
- Collaborate with fellows to strengthen peer-to-peer networks
- Identify fellows’ needs and improve engagement strategies
- Develop tools and systems for better collaboration
- Co-create strategies for a more engaging fellowship experience
General Administration
- Manage LPF operations and communication channels
- Respond to program-related inquiries
- Maintain platforms such as:
- Google Drive
- Workplace
- Airtable
- Record and distribute meeting minutes
- Keep databases and mailing lists updated
Processes & Operations
- Support the application and screening process
- Assist with onboarding new fellows
- Optimize workflows and operational systems
Qualifications and Requirements
Minimum Requirements
Candidates must:
- Have knowledge or interest in:
- Urban planning
- Urban sustainability
- Urban technology or related fields
- Possess experience in:
- Operations management or membership coordination
- Demonstrate:
- Strong organizational and leadership skills
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities
- Be able to:
- Work across multiple time zones
- Communicate proactively and consistently
- Be aged 18–30 years (exceptions may apply)
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in sustainable urban development
- Passion for SDGs and climate action
- Strong English communication skills
- Ability to commit time and resources effectively
Duration, Commitment, and Conditions
- Duration: 12 months (including a 3-month trial period)
- Weekly Commitment: Minimum of 10 hours
- Work Mode: Fully remote (global participation)
- Compensation: Voluntary (unpaid)
- Reporting: Directly to the LPF Project Lead
- Training: Mandatory onboarding and continuous learning modules
Note: There is no specified application deadline, so early application is strongly encouraged.
Benefits of Joining the LPF Team
This role offers more than just experience—it provides a transformative journey into global development leadership:
Global Exposure
- Work in a multicultural, international environment
- Collaborate with global youth leaders and experts
Skill Development
- Gain hands-on experience in:
- Program management
- Stakeholder engagement
- Sustainable development practices
Career Advancement
- Represent SDSN Youth at global events
- Build a personal brand in sustainability and SDGs
- Expand your professional network across sectors
Continuous Learning
- Access training and capacity-building opportunities
- Develop both personal and professional competencies
Why This Opportunity Matters
The world urgently needs innovative, youth-driven solutions to urban challenges. By joining the Local Pathways Fellowship as a Project Officer, you become part of a global movement working toward the 2030 Agenda.
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You won’t just support a program—you’ll help shape the future of sustainable cities.
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