Deadline: Ongoing
The UN FAO Young Forest Champions Initiative 2026 is a global youth leadership and engagement programme by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), under its AIM4Forests initiative. This transformative programme aims to empower young people to take active roles in forest conservation, restoration, sustainable management, and climate resilience within their communities.
About the UN FAO Young Forest Champions Initiative 2026
The UN FAO Young Forest Champions Initiative 2026 provides an opportunity for passionate young individuals to strengthen their leadership and technical capacities while driving positive change in their countries’ forest and ecosystem landscapes. Through training, mentorship, and hands-on engagement, participants will gain the tools and knowledge needed to champion sustainable forest action and become recognised advocates for climate resilience.
This initiative is part of FAO’s ongoing commitment to engaging youth in sustainable development and environmental stewardship — building a new generation of leaders dedicated to protecting the world’s forests.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Young Forest Champions Initiative 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be between 18 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Be a current university student or recent graduate.
- Reside in one of the following countries: Ghana, Indonesia, Kenya, Peru, Uganda, or Zambia.
- Possess intermediate or higher English proficiency.
- Have reliable access to the internet for full participation in programme activities.
- Be committed to actively participating throughout 2026.
Special consideration is given to young women, Indigenous youth, and persons living with disabilities, recognising their vital role in forest protection and inclusive environmental governance.
Benefits of the Programme
Selected Young Forest Champions will receive tailored support to enhance their leadership, technical, and advocacy capacities. Key benefits include:
- Comprehensive training and mentorship focused on forest management, restoration, and climate resilience.
- Practical learning on the use of modern forest restoration and ecosystem monitoring tools, including advanced technologies like remote sensing.
- Opportunities to design and lead youth-led projects that promote forest protection and local community resilience.
- Access to a global network of young environmental leaders influencing forest-related policies and actions.
- Enhanced career development prospects within the environmental, forestry, and climate action sectors.
Note: The initiative does not provide direct financial funding, but focuses on capacity building, visibility, and technical assistance to support youth-led environmental initiatives.
Application Details
Applications are open to eligible candidates who are passionate about making an impact in forest conservation and sustainable development. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to secure their participation.
The programme runs throughout 2026, with participants expected to engage in a series of structured training sessions, mentorship programmes, and collaborative forest action projects.
Why You Should Apply
Becoming a UN FAO Young Forest Champion means joining a global movement of youth committed to driving real change. Through this initiative, participants will not only enhance their technical skills but also build connections with experts, policymakers, and fellow young leaders shaping the future of our planet’s forests.
This is a unique opportunity to gain international exposure, strengthen your leadership journey, and contribute meaningfully to the preservation of global ecosystems.
🔗 How to Apply
👉 Read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
