Overview

This program offers a unique continental leadership opportunity designed to place young Africans at the center of policy, innovation, and sustainable development.

It seeks to recruit 11 exceptional young leaders from Africa's five geographical regions and the African diaspora to serve on a two-year advisory council that will directly influence UNDP's youth agenda across the continent.

Eligibility

Be an African national
Be between 18 and 34 years old at the time of selection
Be living in Africa or the African diaspora
Demonstrate leadership, innovation, or community engagement experience
Be committed to inclusive development and youth empowerment
Not have previously served on a UN Youth Advisory Council, Youth Sounding Board, or similar advisory mechanism
Be available for regular virtual meetings and periodic in-person engagements
Possess strong written and spoken English
Serve in a personal and apolitical capacity

Benefits

Influence UNDP youth programming across Africa
Work directly with UNDP regional teams
Collaborate with leading development experts
Participate in continental policy discussions
Expand leadership capacity
Build professional networks across Africa
Connect with UNDP Country Offices in 46 countries
Engage with the African Union Commission
Collaborate with Regional Economic Communities
Help shape the UNDP Africa Youth Portfolio
Gain exposure to regional development initiatives
Strengthen advocacy and policy engagement skills

Participation in the Council is voluntary. UNDP will reasonably cover travel expenses, accommodation, meals, and digital communication costs related to Council activities.