The Next Generation Fellows program, established by the United Nations Foundation, puts young people at the forefront of this movement, to help shape the policy agenda, inspire bold thinking, and drive solutions and innovation at scale.
Thematic Next Generation Fellows
The four Thematic Fellows will be key players in the Next Generation Fellowship, taking the lead on issues in one of the four areas:
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People: Focused on ensuring the dignity, rights, and well-being of individuals globally. They will address issues such as education, health, gender equality, and social protection, advocating for inclusive policies that leave no one behind.
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Planet: Leading on environmental advocacy, addressing climate change, oceans, biodiversity loss, and the sustainable management of natural resources. They will drive campaigns that prioritize environmental justice, intergenerational equity, and global sustainability.
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Prosperity: Championing economic growth and development that benefits everyone. Their work will center on tackling inequality, fostering innovation, and advocating for fair access to opportunities, technology, and sustainable livelihoods.
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Peace: Focused on advancing peaceful, just, and inclusive societies. Their role will include advocating for conflict prevention and violence reduction, justice systems reform, and the promotion of intergenerational and cross-cultural dialogues to strengthen global cooperation.
Roles and ResponsibilitiesÂ
Engine Room Leadership
- Lead and manage the assigned Action Group (People, Planet, Prosperity, or Peace), ensuring its campaigns align with the SDGs, the 2100 Roadmap, and the outcomes of the Final SDG Summit.
- Develop and implement strategic plans for the Action Group’s thematic priorities, with clear goals, deliverables, and timelines.
- Foster collaboration among Action Group members, partners, and stakeholders to generate innovative solutions and strengthen campaigns.
- Coordinate the work of changemakers and champions within the Action Group, providing guidance, mentorship, and support.
Global AdvocacyÂ
- Represent the thematic Action Group at global forums, including UN events, regional summits, and key engagements (e.g., Beijing+30, 2027 SDG Summit).
- Amplify youth perspectives and priorities through advocacy, storytelling, and dynamic communication strategies.
- Play a critical role in shaping and presenting the 2100 Roadmap, ensuring its focus on future generations and intergenerational equity.
- Work closely with the other Thematic Fellows and the Partnership Lead Fellow to ensure cross-thematic collaboration.
Capacity Building and Management
- Participate in tailored workshops and training sessions on advocacy, foresight, global governance, and campaign design.
- Engage in ongoing capacity-building support to Fellows, changemakers, and champions to maximize their impact.
- Amplify the stories and achievements of Fellows and Action Groups through storytelling and dynamic communication content.
- Contribute to the design of capacity-building programs, equipping Action Group members with skills in advocacy, foresight, and campaign execution.
Candidate Requirements
- Aged 18-30 at the start of the fellowship.
- Proven experience in youth advocacy, global governance, and leadership roles.
- Familiarity with UN processes, SDG implementation, and multilateral frameworks.
- Expertise in writing, campaign execution, and policy advocacy.
- Proven management and mentorship capabilities to guide diverse teams.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for engaging diverse stakeholders.
- Proficiency in using digital tools to engage participants, analyze data, and share impact stories.
- Multilingual proficiency (preferred: one additional UN language besides English).
Time Commitment and CompensationÂ
- Fellows will work part-time, one day a week for two years, gaining experience in advocacy, strategy, and leadership, while advancing youth-driven solutions for a sustainable and equitable future.
- This role is compensated based on UN consultant rates aligned with experience and location.Â
For more information and application.