UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026–2028: Global Leadership Opportunity for Young Changemakers Transforming Food Systems Worldwide

Applications are now open for the second cohort of the United Nations Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP), a prestigious global initiative designed to empower young leaders who are committed to transforming food systems and advancing sustainable development around the world.

Led by the United Nations Food Systems Coordination Hub and supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Youth Leadership Programme brings together emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds to strengthen their leadership capacity, expand their networks, and accelerate meaningful action toward sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems.

Building on the success of its inaugural cohort, the programme is now expanding its global network of changemakers working across policy, entrepreneurship, science, advocacy, research, agriculture, climate action, and community development. Participants will gain access to a transformative leadership journey that equips them with practical skills, mentorship, peer learning opportunities, and exposure to global food systems processes.

For young leaders seeking to influence food systems transformation at local, national, regional, and global levels, this programme offers an exceptional opportunity to join a growing international community dedicated to creating lasting impact.

About the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme

The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme is more than a conventional training programme. It is a long-term leadership development initiative designed to nurture the next generation of leaders working at the intersection of food systems, sustainability, climate resilience, economic development, and social inclusion.

The programme recognizes that young people play a critical role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including:

• Food insecurity
• Climate change
• Sustainable agriculture
• Nutrition and health
• Environmental sustainability
• Rural development
• Social equity
• Economic inclusion

Through structured learning, mentorship, collaboration, and leadership development, participants gain the tools and knowledge necessary to create meaningful change within their communities, institutions, organizations, and countries.

Why Food Systems Transformation Matters

Food systems touch every aspect of human life.

They influence:

• Food production
• Nutrition
• Public health
• Climate resilience
• Biodiversity
• Employment
• Economic development
• Social inclusion

However, food systems around the world face growing pressures, including:

• Climate-related disruptions
• Population growth
• Resource scarcity
• Economic inequalities
• Environmental degradation
• Food insecurity

Addressing these challenges requires innovative leadership, cross-sector collaboration, and systems thinking.

The Youth Leadership Programme aims to equip young leaders with the skills and perspectives needed to address these complex issues effectively.

Building on the Success of the First Cohort

The first cohort of the Youth Leadership Programme demonstrated the power of youth-led action and collaboration.

Over the past two years, participants have:

• Strengthened food systems initiatives in their countries
• Influenced policy discussions
• Advanced research and innovation
• Led advocacy campaigns
• Built partnerships across sectors
• Created collaborations that extend beyond borders

The impact of the programme continues to grow through the work of its alumni network.

One notable participant, Sofia Bacquerizo from Ecuador, highlighted the transformative nature of the programme by explaining how the relationships and knowledge gained through the YLP contributed directly to legislative reforms she is advancing in her country’s National Assembly.

Her experience illustrates how the programme helps participants turn ideas into tangible action and policy influence.

What Participants Will Gain

The Youth Leadership Programme offers a wide range of benefits designed to strengthen participants’ leadership capabilities and increase their impact.

1. Systems Thinking and Leadership Skills

Participants will develop a deeper understanding of food systems and learn how to navigate complex challenges through systems thinking approaches.

Key areas include:

• Strategic leadership
• Problem-solving
• Stakeholder engagement
• Collaborative decision-making
• Systems analysis

2. Access to a Global Network

Participants will become part of an international community of:

• Youth leaders
• Policymakers
• Researchers
• Entrepreneurs
• Development practitioners
• UN experts
• Food systems specialists

This network creates opportunities for long-term collaboration and knowledge exchange.

3. Collaboration and Peer Learning

The programme emphasizes learning through collaboration.

Participants will engage with peers from different countries, cultures, and professional backgrounds, enabling them to:

• Share experiences
• Exchange ideas
• Explore innovative solutions
• Develop joint initiatives

4. Practical Leadership Tools

Participants will gain practical resources and methodologies that help strengthen their leadership effectiveness and project impact.

These tools can be applied directly to:

• Community initiatives
• Policy advocacy
• Research projects
• Entrepreneurship ventures
• Development programmes

5. Exposure to Global Food Systems Processes

The programme provides valuable insight into international food systems governance and development processes.

Participants will gain exposure to:

• United Nations initiatives
• Global food systems dialogues
• International partnerships
• Policy frameworks
• Sustainable development agendas

A Leadership Journey, Not Just a Training Programme

One of the most distinctive aspects of the Youth Leadership Programme is its long-term approach to leadership development.

Rather than focusing solely on technical training, the programme helps participants:

• Build confidence
• Expand influence
• Strengthen leadership capacity
• Develop strategic thinking skills
• Foster meaningful relationships

This holistic approach supports participants in becoming effective leaders capable of driving change at multiple levels.

Who Should Apply?

The programme seeks young leaders who are actively contributing to food systems transformation and sustainable development.

Applications are particularly encouraged from:

Young Farmers

Individuals working to improve agricultural systems and food production practices.

Entrepreneurs

Founders and innovators creating solutions for food systems challenges.

Policy Advocates

Young professionals engaged in policy development, advocacy, and governance.

Researchers

Individuals conducting research related to food systems, sustainability, climate, agriculture, nutrition, or development.

Science Communicators

Professionals who translate scientific knowledge into accessible information for broader audiences.

Indigenous and Local Community Representatives

Leaders working to preserve and promote community knowledge and sustainable practices.

Civil Society Leaders

Individuals leading initiatives that contribute to social, environmental, and economic development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

Age Requirement

Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old.

Language Requirement

Applicants must be proficient in English.

Nationality Requirement

Applicants must be nationals of low- or middle-income countries.

Priority regions include:

• Africa
• Asia and the Pacific
• Latin America and the Caribbean

Professional Experience Requirement

Applicants should demonstrate experience in:

• Food systems
• Sustainable development
• Climate action
• Related fields

Leadership Experience

Applicants must have experience leading or contributing to initiatives within:

• Communities
• Organizations
• Institutions
• Sectors

Programme Commitment

Applicants must be willing to participate fully in programme activities through 2028.

Why You Should Apply

The Youth Leadership Programme is ideal for young changemakers seeking to:

• Strengthen leadership skills
• Expand professional networks
• Increase policy influence
• Collaborate internationally
• Advance food systems transformation
• Contribute to sustainable development goals
• Build long-term partnerships
• Access mentorship opportunities

The programme provides a unique platform to amplify youth voices in global conversations and decision-making processes.

Important Deadline

Applications Close:

13 July 2026

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline to maximize their chances of consideration.

APPLY HERE

How This Programme Can Shape Your Future

Participation in the Youth Leadership Programme can open doors to:

• International collaborations
• Leadership opportunities
• Policy engagement
• Professional growth
• Research partnerships
• Advocacy initiatives
• Global development networks

Participants join a growing community of leaders working across sectors to address complex food systems challenges and create sustainable solutions.

Click HERE to learn more about UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026–2028.

Conclusion

The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026–2028 represents an outstanding opportunity for young leaders from low- and middle-income countries to develop the skills, networks, and knowledge needed to drive transformative change in food systems and sustainable development. Through mentorship, systems thinking, peer learning, and global collaboration, participants will gain valuable experience that strengthens their ability to influence policies, lead initiatives, and create lasting impact within their communities and beyond.

For young farmers, entrepreneurs, researchers, advocates, climate leaders, and development practitioners who are passionate about creating more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food systems, this programme offers an unparalleled platform for leadership growth and global engagement. Interested candidates should submit their applications before 13 July 2026 and take the next step toward becoming part of a powerful international network of changemakers.

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