UNICEF Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education 2026 (Up to US$ 20,000 for Youth-Led Climate Education Projects)
Do you care deeply about climate change, education, and empowering children or communities through knowledge? The Leading Minds Climate Education Fellowship opens a global call for youth (ages 10–30) working to transform climate education — whether in schools, communities or digital spaces. Selected fellows receive grant support and join a global cohort shaping the future of climate-aware learning.
This fellowship offers a chance to scale your initiative, get mentorship, and contribute to policy and awareness — turning your passion into impact.
What the Fellowship Offers (Benefits)
- Grant support up to US$ 20,000 for initiatives selected.
- Stipend for your time and contributions during the fellowship period.
- Technical mentorship & collaboration with UNICEF research partners and experts.
- Platform for visibility: ability to influence policy, take part in global dialogues, and share your work internationally.
- Leadership development and youth-advocacy experience: engage in research, foresight, systems thinking, storytelling, and community outreach.
- Part of global cohort: Network with other young climate-education leaders from around the world.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility Criteria)
You are eligible if you:
- Are between 10 and 30 years old.
- Are leading or representing a youth-led climate education initiative (school clubs, community programs, digital campaigns, policy advocacy, etc.).
- Are ready to commit 4–5 hours per week from February 2026 to July 2027 (the fellowship period).
- Are comfortable working in English (other UN languages are a plus).
Initiatives can span formal education (school curricula, climate clubs), informal or community-based education (workshops, awareness campaigns), digital media and storytelling, partnerships with local authorities, or justice- and rights-based climate education frameworks.
Fellowship Scope & What Fellows Will Do
As a Fellow, you will:
- Document and strengthen your “climate education bright spot” — your existing or planned initiative.
- Contribute to youth-led research, foresight, and systems thinking around climate education.
- Support design and implementation of educational tools, campaigns, or curricula.
- Participate in global policy dialogues, strategic convenings, and multi-stakeholder networks.
- Help produce evidence, stories, and tools aimed at transforming how communities and education systems respond to climate change.
How to Apply
Visit the official fellowship page:
Apply here → https://www.unicef.org/innocenti/leading-minds-fellowship-climate-education
You’ll need to complete the application, describe your initiative, plans, expected impact, and your role. Shortlisted candidates may be asked for additional information, including your availability, commitment plan, and project details.
Fellowship applications are open — don’t wait to apply if climate education and community impact matter to you.