Apply for the 2026 SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship 

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Application Deadline: December 21, 2025

The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF), an initiative by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth (SDSN Youth), is now accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This prestigious program empowers young urban leaders from around the world to localize the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

From March to December 2026, fellows will engage in a transformative 10-month journey designed to build leadership, foster innovation, and drive local change for sustainable urban development. The program provides training, mentorship, and a global platform to help young people design impactful solutions for their cities.

SDSN Youth invites passionate and committed individuals from any city or country to apply. The program prioritizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring regional representation among its fellows.

Application Deadline: December 21, 2025
Location: Worldwide (Remote)
Duration: March – December 2026

Program Goals and Activities

The Local Pathways Fellowship is structured to help fellows gain deep insights into urban challenges and opportunities while actively contributing to sustainable change. Over 10 months, fellows will:

  • Learn: Explore pressing global urban challenges and discover how cities can be drivers of progress — from infrastructure and environment to innovation and economic development.
  • Create Impact: Develop a localized project addressing a key sustainability challenge in their own city. This hands-on project serves as the main outcome of the fellowship.
  • Connect Globally: Join a dynamic peer network of over 750 fellows from 180 cities in 80 countries, exchanging knowledge, resources, and best practices.
  • Gain Mentorship: Access expert-led webinars and mentorship opportunities with professionals in urban planning, sustainability, and development.

Through this comprehensive learning and networking experience, fellows not only enhance their technical expertise but also become part of a global movement transforming urban spaces into sustainable, resilient, and inclusive communities.

Who Should Apply

Ideal candidates for the Local Pathways Fellowship are young leaders passionate about sustainable urban development and innovation. Applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Age: Between 18–30 years.
  • Experience: At least one year of academic or professional experience in relevant areas such as urban planning, sustainability, community engagement, or advocacy.
  • Skills: Strong organizational, leadership, and communication abilities, with fluency in English and the local language of their represented city.
  • Commitment: Willingness to dedicate 4–6 hours per week for program activities.
  • Connectivity: Reliable internet access and ability to collaborate across time zones.

Applicants with backgrounds in urban tech, climate resilience, development practice, or social innovation are highly encouraged to apply.

Program Commitment and Structure

  • Duration: 10 months (with a 2-month probation period).
  • Engagement: 4–6 hours per week.
  • Supervision: Guided by the SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship Program team.
  • Compensation: Voluntary (non-paid position).
  • Training: Fellows must complete SDSN Youth’s online induction and training modules.

Benefits of Becoming a Local Pathways Fellow

Joining the Local Pathways Fellowship offers numerous professional and personal benefits, including:

  • Global Recognition: Gain visibility as a young leader championing sustainable urban development.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build lasting relationships with global experts, policymakers, and fellow changemakers in sustainability.
  • Capacity Building: Receive world-class training, mentorship, and access to SDSN Youth’s vast network of sustainable development professionals.
  • Leadership Growth: Develop essential leadership, advocacy, and project management skills applicable to real-world challenges.
  • Global Impact: Contribute to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and make tangible contributions to your community’s sustainability.
  • Event Participation: Fellows may have opportunities to speak or represent SDSN Youth at international sustainability events.

Being part of SDSN Youth connects you directly with a global network driving meaningful change through innovation, collaboration, and local action. The experience serves as a springboard for future professional opportunities within the UN, government, or leading development organizations.

How to Apply

Applications for the 2026 Local Pathways Fellowship are open until December 21, 2025.
Eligible candidates can apply through the SDSN Youth official portal using their LinkedIn or Indeed profiles.

For more information and to apply, CLICK HERE 

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