The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub has officially launched applications for the second cohort of its Youth Leadership Programme (YLP), a global initiative designed to empower emerging leaders working to transform food systems around the world.

Supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, the programme seeks to equip young changemakers with the skills, networks, and leadership tools needed to drive sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems in their communities and countries.

Applications are open until 13 July 2026.

Building the Next Generation of Food Systems Leaders

The Youth Leadership Programme builds on the achievements of its inaugural cohort, which brought together young leaders from diverse backgrounds to collaborate on addressing some of the world’s most pressing food system challenges.

Over the past two years, participants have contributed to:

• National and local food systems initiatives

• Policy development and advocacy efforts

• Research and innovation projects

• Community-based interventions

• Cross-sector and international collaborations

The programme aims to expand this growing global network by recruiting a new cohort of motivated young professionals and community leaders committed to advancing food systems transformation.

More Than a Training Programme

According to the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub, the Youth Leadership Programme is designed as a comprehensive leadership journey rather than a traditional training course.

Participants will engage in:

• Leadership development activities

• Peer-to-peer learning opportunities

• Mentorship from experts and practitioners

• Collaboration with United Nations partners

• Practical systems-thinking exercises

• Networking with global food systems stakeholders

The programme seeks to strengthen participants’ ability to influence policy, lead initiatives, mobilize communities, and contribute to sustainable development outcomes.

Benefits of Participating

Successful applicants will gain access to a range of professional and leadership development opportunities.

Key benefits include:

• Systems thinking and strategic leadership skills

• Access to a global network of peers and experts

• Opportunities for international collaboration

• Practical tools to increase impact and influence

• Exposure to global food systems processes

• Connections with development partners and institutions

By participating in the programme, young leaders will become part of an international community dedicated to creating more sustainable and equitable food systems.

Alumni Highlight the Programme’s Impact

Participants from the first cohort have highlighted the value of the programme in fostering collaboration and innovation across borders.

Sofia Bacquerizo from Ecuador, a member of the inaugural cohort, noted that the programme connected her with innovative leaders from around the world and contributed to her ongoing policy reform efforts.

Her experience reflects the programme’s emphasis on collective leadership and knowledge exchange, where participants learn from one another while developing practical solutions to food systems challenges.

Who Can Apply?

The Youth Leadership Programme is open to applicants who meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Aged between 18 and 35 years

• Proficient in English

• Nationals of low- or middle-income countries

• Particularly encouraged from Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America, and the Caribbean

• Demonstrated experience in food systems, climate action, sustainable development, or related fields

• Experience leading or contributing to community, organizational, institutional, or sector-based initiatives

• Commitment to participate fully in programme activities through 2028

The programme seeks individuals with a proven commitment to creating positive change within their communities and sectors.

Priority Groups Encouraged to Apply

The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub is particularly encouraging applications from:

• Young farmers

• Food and agriculture entrepreneurs

• Policy advocates

• Researchers

• Science communicators

• Indigenous community representatives

• Local community leaders

• Civil society actors

This inclusive approach aims to ensure diverse perspectives and experiences are represented within the programme.

Advancing Sustainable and Resilient Food Systems

The Youth Leadership Programme aligns with global efforts to transform food systems in ways that support sustainable development, environmental protection, and social equity.

Participants will explore key issues including:

• Food security and nutrition

• Climate resilience

• Sustainable agriculture

• Community development

• Environmental sustainability

• Inclusive economic growth

• Systems transformation approaches

The programme recognizes that young people play a critical role in shaping the future of food systems and delivering innovative solutions to emerging challenges.

Global Collaboration for Food Systems Transformation

The UN Food Systems Coordination Hub works in partnership with several international organizations supporting sustainable food systems development, including:

• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

• International Fund for Agricultural Development

• United Nations Development Coordination Office

• United Nations Environment Programme

• World Food Programme

• World Health Organization

Together, these organizations support initiatives aimed at accelerating progress toward more sustainable and resilient food systems globally.

Application Deadline

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date of 13 July 2026.

The programme offers a unique opportunity for young leaders to strengthen their leadership capabilities, expand their professional networks, and contribute meaningfully to global food systems transformation efforts.

Conclusion

As food systems worldwide face increasing pressures from climate change, population growth, and economic uncertainty, initiatives such as the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme are helping to prepare the next generation of leaders to drive innovative and sustainable solutions.

The second cohort presents an important opportunity for young changemakers from developing regions to gain the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to influence the future of food systems and sustainable development.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.