Deadline: December 21, 2025
The UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications, offering young urban leaders across the world a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to sustainable urban development. This prestigious fellowship empowers emerging changemakers to design and implement local solutions aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities. The UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship 2026 equips fellows with knowledge, mentorship, global exposure, and the platform to drive real transformation in their communities.
About the Opportunity
The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) is a 10-month global leadership and urban-development programme under SDSN Youth, the youth initiative of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The fellowship engages young innovators, activists, researchers, planners, and community-driven leaders to localise sustainable urban-development practices in their cities.
Fellows participate in monthly learning modules, complete structured deliverables, design an SDG-aligned local project, and engage with experts and peers from across the world. With a network of over 750 fellows across more than 180 cities and 80 countries, the programme strengthens capacity, fosters collaboration, and amplifies youth-led solutions for more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable communities.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Aged between 18 and 30 at the time of application.
- At least one year of academic or professional experience in fields such as urban planning, sustainability, community development, environmental studies, advocacy, development practice, or related areas.
- Demonstrated interest in sustainable development, urban transformation, and SDG implementation, particularly SDG 11.
- Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills, with the ability to work within diverse teams and across time zones.
- Fluency in English, with proficiency in the local language of the applicant’s city considered an advantage.
- Ability to commit sufficient time for the programme’s activities and deliverables.
- Access to a reliable internet connection for virtual engagements.
- The fellowship is voluntary and unpaid.
Benefits / Award Details
Selected fellows gain access to:
- A global network of peers, practitioners, researchers, UN stakeholders, and sustainable-development experts.
- Structured mentorship and guidance on developing a locally relevant urban-innovation project.
- Training in SDG localisation, urban-systems thinking, strategic planning, and community engagement.
- Opportunities to collaborate with a global cohort and participate in high-level dialogues and events.
- Public recognition as an emerging voice in sustainable urban development.
- Increased visibility and opportunities for future collaborations, partnerships, and global platforms.
Application Requirements / Documents
Applicants are expected to submit:
- A completed online application form.
- Clear responses outlining motivation, urban-development interest, and project ideas.
- Evidence of academic or professional experience.
- Any additional documents requested in the online form, such as CV or portfolio extracts.
Timeline / Key Dates
- Applications open: 28 November 2025
- Applications close: 21 December 2025
- Selection notifications: Expected February 2026
- Programme commencement: 1 March 2026
- Programme duration: 10 months
How to Apply
Applications are submitted online via the official portal. Candidates must carefully follow the instructions, provide accurate details, and ensure that all required fields and documents are completed before submission.
Selection Process
The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their demonstrated commitment to sustainable development, clarity of motivation, leadership potential, community impact, and the relevance of their proposed urban-development ideas. Only candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and show strong alignment with the mission of SDSN Youth will be selected.
Additional Information / Terms
- The fellowship is entirely virtual, accessible globally, and designed to support youth from diverse backgrounds.
- Fellows must complete monthly tasks and participate actively in all required sessions.
- The programme maintains a strong emphasis on collaboration, responsibility, peer learning, and long-term commitment to sustainable urban development.
Host Organisation
The programme is hosted by SDSN Youth, part of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, a global body that mobilises scientific and technical expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development at local, national, and international levels.
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