Are you a young leader passionate about sustainable development, food systems transformation, climate action, and global leadership? Applications are now open for the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026, a prestigious global leadership initiative organized by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub with support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 is designed to empower emerging leaders from low- and middle-income countries to become changemakers and contribute to sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems. The programme runs through 2028 and offers participants access to mentorship, networking opportunities, leadership development, and collaboration with experts and UN partners.

If you are searching for a fully funded leadership programme 2026, a global youth leadership programme, or an international opportunity for young leaders, then the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 is an opportunity you should not miss.

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About the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026

The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) is a global initiative that brings together young leaders working in policy, science, entrepreneurship, advocacy, research, and community development.

More than just a training programme, the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 is a transformational leadership journey that equips participants with systems thinking skills, practical leadership tools, and access to a worldwide network of experts and peers.

Participants from the first cohort have contributed to policy reforms, strengthened food systems initiatives, expanded research and advocacy efforts, and created collaborations across countries and regions.

UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 Details

Programme Name

UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP)

Organized By

UN Food Systems Coordination Hub

Supported By

German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)

Programme Duration

2026–2028

Eligible Regions

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

Language Requirement

English

Application Deadline

13 July 2026

Benefits of the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026

Participants selected for the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 will receive:

✅ Systems thinking and leadership skills

✅ Access to a global network of peers and experts

✅ Opportunities for collaboration and peer learning

✅ Practical tools to strengthen influence and impact

✅ Exposure to international food systems processes

✅ Mentorship and guidance from experts and UN partners

✅ Leadership development opportunities

✅ Membership in a global community of young changemakers

✅ Opportunities to collaborate across regions and sectors

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Why Apply for the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026?

The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 provides an opportunity for young professionals to develop leadership skills while working toward sustainable food systems.

Participants will:

• Build leadership capacity.
• Learn systems approaches to complex challenges.
• Connect with young leaders from around the world.
• Gain access to mentorship and collaboration opportunities.
• Strengthen their ability to influence policies and initiatives.
• Become part of an international network promoting sustainable food systems.

Eligibility Criteria for the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026

Applicants must:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old.
• Be proficient in English.
• Be citizens of low- or middle-income countries.
• Come particularly from Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Demonstrate experience in food systems, climate action, sustainable development, or related areas.
• Have experience leading or contributing to community, institutional, or organizational initiatives.
• Commit to active participation in programme activities through 2028.

Who is Encouraged to Apply?

The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 particularly welcomes applications from:

• Young farmers
• Entrepreneurs
• Policy advocates
• Researchers
• Science communicators
• Indigenous community representatives
• Local community leaders
• Civil society leaders
• Youth activists
• Sustainable development practitioners

Previous Participant Experience

Sofia Bacquerizo from Ecuador, a participant in the first cohort, highlighted the impact of the programme:

The YLP did not only train me, but it connected me with fresh, innovative minds from across the globe. The legislative reform I’m bringing to the National Assembly today is not mine alone. It contains a piece of many of the fellow leaders I have met in this Programme.”

Why the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 Matters

Food systems are central to addressing global challenges such as hunger, poverty, climate change, nutrition, and sustainability. The UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026 empowers young people to become leaders capable of driving transformation in communities, institutions, and countries.

Through peer learning, collaboration, and practical leadership development, participants help shape more resilient and equitable food systems worldwide.

How to Apply for the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme 2026

Interested candidates should submit their applications before 13 July 2026.

Applicants are encouraged to review all eligibility requirements and prepare the necessary information before submitting their application.

Application Deadline:

📅 13 July 2026

Programme Duration:

📅 2026–2028

Host Organization:

🌍 UN Food Systems Coordination Hub

Programme Type:

🎓 Global Youth Leadership Programme

Eligible Countries:

🌎 Low- and middle-income countries, especially in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, and Latin America and the Caribbean

Official Website

For more information and to apply, visit the official website.