The application period is now open for the 2026 UNICEF Leading Minds Fellowship focused on Climate Education. This exciting opportunity invites young climate champions from around the world to engage in a dynamic fellowship that amplifies youth-driven climate education projects, advances research and foresight, influences policies, and contributes to the planning of strategic events. Selected projects have the chance to receive grant funding up to $20,000 to support their impactful work.
UNICEF aims to select up to 12 exceptional young climate leaders, aged between 10 and 30 years, who are actively strengthening climate education within their schools, communities, or countries. This can be through formal educational institutions or informal community-based settings. Youth-led initiatives eligible for the fellowship may encompass a variety of approaches, including but not limited to:
- Integration within school systems: Efforts such as developing climate-related curricula, forming educational networks, or creating school climate clubs.
- Collaborations with government entities: Partnerships that involve working alongside education authorities or policymakers to embed climate education.
- Applying rights-based and justice perspectives: Projects that connect climate education with themes of equity, social justice, and human rights.
- Community resilience and informal learning: Local campaigns, grassroots projects, or community-organized educational activities.
- Digital and media initiatives: Online platforms, storytelling campaigns, or awareness-raising projects using digital media.
Role Overview
As a Leading Minds Climate Education Fellow, your responsibilities will include:
- Documenting, enhancing, and promoting your innovative climate education initiative or “Bright Spot.”
- Contributing to youth-driven research, applying foresight methodologies, and engaging in systems thinking.
- Influencing climate education policy and participating in dialogues at national and international levels.
- Creating compelling stories, educational tools, and evidence-based resources aimed at improving education systems.
- Collaborating in the co-design and facilitation of strategic meetings and convenings.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be between the ages of 10 and 30.
- Currently lead or represent a climate education initiative.
- Have a strong passion for climate action, climate education, and fostering positive societal change.
- Be prepared to commit approximately four to five hours per week from February 2026 through July 2027.
- Be proficient in English; knowledge of other UN languages is considered an advantage.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows will receive several valuable benefits, including:
- A stipend to compensate for their time and contributions throughout the fellowship duration.
- Access to technical mentorship and opportunities to collaborate with research partners.
- Visibility through speaking engagements and public exposure.
- Practical experience in child rights advocacy, foresight analysis, youth engagement, and climate education advocacy.
- Leadership development coupled with membership in a global network of youth leaders and advocates.
If you have any questions or require additional information, please contact: leadingminds@unicef.org.
To learn more details about the fellowship and to submit your application, please Visit the Official Webpage of the UNICEF’s Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education.
