UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) 2026 for Young Changemakers

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Applications are now open for the second cohort of the UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP), a global initiative led by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub and supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Building on the success of its first cohort, the Programme is expanding its global network of emerging leaders working across policy, science, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and community action to advance food systems transformation. Over the past two years, YLP participants have strengthened food systems initiatives in their countries, contributed to policy discussions, advanced research and advocacy efforts, and built collaborations that extend across regions and sectors.

The YLP is more than a training programme. It is a leadership journey that equips participants with the skills, networks, and systems approaches needed to drive meaningful change within their communities, institutions, and countries. Through peer learning, mentorship, collaboration with experts and UN partners, and practical leadership development, participants become part of a growing community working to shape more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient food systems.

“The YLP did not only train me, but it connected me with fresh, innovative minds from across the globe.” Said Sofia Bacquerizo of Ecuador, who participated in the first cohort. She went to expand that, “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.”

UN Food Systems Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) Benefits

Participants will gain:

Systems thinking and leadership skills
Access to a global network of peers and experts
Opportunities for collaboration and peer learning
Practical tools to strengthen impact and influence
Exposure to global food systems processes and partnerships

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should:

Be between 18 and 35 years old
Be proficient in English
Be a national of a low- or middle-income country, particularly in Africa, Asia and the Pacific, or Latin America and the Caribbean
Demonstrate experience in food systems, sustainable development, climate action, or related fields
Have experience leading or contributing to initiatives within their community, organization, institution, or sector
Be committed to participating fully in programme activities through 2028

We particularly encourage applications from young farmers, entrepreneurs, policy advocates, researchers, science communicators, Indigenous and local community representatives, and civil society leaders.