UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship Program 2024 Application Call

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth) launched the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) program with the aim of empowering and equipping young leaders from cities around the world to make progress on Sustainable Development Goal 11. The LPF program trains, supports, and connects young thought leaders, activists, and innovators who are working to transform cities and urban areas. While candidates from any city and country are encouraged to apply, SDSN Youth strives to ensure diversity of regional representation among the fellows.

To be selected as a Local Pathways Fellow, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Have an interest in sustainable development and be passionate about the mission of SDSN, including the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate change.
2. Possess strong knowledge in urban planning, urban environment, urban sustainability, urban tech, development practice, community engagement, advocacy, or related fields.
3. Have professional or academic experience in urban planning, urban environment, urban sustainability, urban tech, development practice, community engagement, advocacy, or related fields. Similar fields would also be considered a strong asset.
4. Be responsive and able to manage regular communication with the team across different time zones.
5. Demonstrate excellent organizational and leadership skills.
6. Be a team player with good interpersonal skills and the ability to coordinate and develop projects, as well as solve problems.
7. Have an excellent command of the English language, including writing, speaking, listening, and the local language of the cities they represent.
8. Show that they have the time and resources to commit to the program, as well as a consistent and stable internet connection.
9. Be between the ages of 18-30 to be eligible for this role.

COMMITMENT
The Local Pathways Fellowship is a 10-month position that requires 5-7 hours per week.

CONDITIONS
Duration of Position: This role requires a minimum commitment of 10 months, including a 2-month probation period.
Supervision: The Project Lead of the Local Pathways Fellowship Program will provide supervision for this position.
Compensation: Please note that this position is voluntary.
Training: As part of the fellowship, all participants are required to complete the SDSN Youth online induction courses, which include team training.

BENEFITS
As fellows, you will gain global visibility and exposure as champions for sustainable urban development. You will also have numerous opportunities to enhance your expertise and access our extensive network of SDG professionals and advocates.
Being part of SDSN Youth and the Local Pathways Fellowship allows you to be at the forefront of efforts made by the United Nations, governments, companies, and civil society in driving sustainable development. It empowers you to make a meaningful impact.
By joining this fellowship, you become part of a movement of young individuals who are dedicated to sustainable development. You will receive the necessary skills and tools to overcome key challenges and contribute significantly to the achievement of SDGs in communities.
SDSN Youth and the Local Pathways Fellowship provide you with the opportunity to build professional and personal relationships with influential stakeholders in civil society, business, government, and the United Nations.
Through your participation in the Local Pathways Fellowship, you will be part of an exceptional and diverse group of fellows with various cultural, religious, and political backgrounds, all committed to sustainable development.
The relationships you establish through SDSN Youth and the Local Pathways Fellowship can serve as a solid foundation for your future endeavors.
With the support of our global team of experts, you will experience rapid growth in a challenging yet flexible, fulfilling, and meaningful environment.
There is also a possibility that you may be selected to attend and/or speak at events.
Your experiences will play a central role in our program’s efforts and impact.

Roles

The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) is a 10-month program that aims to empower fellows in finding ways to address Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) at the local level. Throughout the program, fellows will engage in various activities and achieve monthly goals, including:

1. Learning about the current challenges faced by urban areas worldwide and understanding the immense potential of these areas to drive future change. This includes exploring topics such as infrastructure, culture, and economic opportunities, and recognizing the importance of utilizing urban development for global progress.

2. Applying the knowledge and ideas gained to develop a project that tackles specific challenges in their own city or area of interest. This project will be the primary outcome and deliverable of the fellowship, allowing fellows to make a tangible impact in their communities.

3. Connecting with a diverse network of over 550 fellows from 180 different cities across 80 countries. This network provides a valuable platform for fellows to exchange knowledge, share resources, and collaborate with urban leaders from around the world, fostering a global community of change-makers.

4. Benefiting from the guidance and mentorship of industry experts through the LPF webinar series. Fellows will have the opportunity to gain insights, learn from experienced professionals, and receive valuable advice to enhance their understanding and skills in the field of sustainable urban development.

Important Dates:

1. – The application deadline is January 22, 2024, at 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time).
2. – Successful applicants will be notified by January 28, 2024.
3. – The fellowship program will commence on March 1, 2024.

For details and to apply visit the United Nations SSDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship website