Applications are now open for the 2026 United Nations SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF). Launched by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth), the LPF aims to empower and equip young urban leaders from around the world to advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 11 (“Sustainable Cities and Communities”). This is a 10-month, voluntary position requiring 4-6 hours per week, focused on charting pathways for ‘localizing’ SDG 11. While the position is voluntary, it offers immense benefits, including global visibility, expert mentorship, access to a network of 750+ global fellows, and opportunities to build professional relationships with high-level stakeholders. The deadline for applications is not specified, so early submission is encouraged.
UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | N/A (Global Remote Fellowship) |
| Study Abroad | N/A (Professional/Activist Training) |
| Category | Professional Fellowship | Youth Leadership | SDG Implementation |
| Eligible Countries | All Countries (Urban leaders globally) |
| Reward | Global Visibility | Networking Access | Expert Mentorship | Project Development |
| Key Criteria | Aged 18-30, Strong interest in SDG 11, Minimum 1 year of relevant academic or professional experience, Strong English proficiency |
| Application Deadline | Not Specified |
2026 UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship Details
The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) is a structured, long-term program committed to fostering a new generation of urban thought leaders and innovators. The core purpose is to tackle the critical challenges faced by urban areas globally and harness their extraordinary potential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11.
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The program’s design emphasizes practical application and global collaboration. Fellows spend 10 months immersed in learning about global urban challenges, which they then channel into the development of a tangible, city-relevant project. This model ensures that the knowledge acquired is immediately put to use. Furthermore, the extensive peer-to-peer network and expert mentorship provided through the LPF webinar series are central to enabling fellows to exchange knowledge, build solutions, and develop relationships that form the foundation for their future endeavors in sustainable development.
Benefits and Specific Fellowship Award Tiers
While the position is voluntary (uncompensated), the benefits are extensive and focus on career advancement, networking, and institutional access.
Tier 1: Global Visibility and Institutional Access (High-Level Networking)
This tier provides the highest professional leverage through the connection to the United Nations network.
- Value: Global visibility and exposure as champions for sustainable urban development within the UN SDSN framework.
- Criteria: Offered to all fellows, enabling them to be at the forefront of efforts taken by the United Nations, governments, and civil society.
Tier 2: Specialized Training and Peer Networking
This category focuses on skill development, connection building, and educational support.
- List secondary awards recognizing leadership or faculty-specific achievement:
- Access to a vast network of over 750+ peers and SDG professionals/advocates from over 180 different cities and 80 countries, fostering knowledge exchange and solution building.
- Gaining insight and mentorship from industry experts through the structured LPF webinar series.
- Opportunities to develop expertise rapidly in a challenging, flexible, and meaningful environment, supported by a global team of experts.
Tier 3: Professional Development and Opportunities
These awards are granted as career enhancers and recognition of the fellow’s central role in the program.
- List awards granted based purely on high academic performance:
- Opportunities to be selected to attend and/or speak at events related to urban sustainability and the SDGs.
- Mandatory training through all SDSN Youth online induction courses, providing foundational knowledge.
- The chance to build professional and personal relationships with high-level stakeholders in civil society, business, government, and the United Nations.
- The development of a concrete project that addresses challenges relevant to their city, serving as the main deliverable and outcome of the fellowship.
Eligibility Requirements for UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship 2026
Applicants must possess a strong background in urban-related fields and meet specific personal and logistical requirements for remote participation.
- Academic/Leadership:
- Must be Aged between 18-30 in order to be eligible for this role.
- Must have at least one year of academic or professional experience in relevant fields such as urban planning, advocacy, or community initiatives.
- Strong knowledge in urban planning, urban environment, urban sustainability, urban tech, development practice, community engagement, advocacy, or related fields is considered a strong asset.
- Study Status: Must demonstrate an intense interest in sustainable development and be passionate about the mission of the SDSN and SDSN Youth.
- Visa Status: N/A (Voluntary, Remote Position).
- Program Admission: Must possess excellent command of the English language (writing, speaking, listening) and the local language of the cities they represent. Must demonstrate that they have the time and resources (4-6 hours per week) and a consistent and stable internet connection to commit to the 10-month program.
How to Apply for UN SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship 2026 (Step by Step)
The application process is typically centralized through the SDSN Youth portal and requires comprehensive submission of qualifications and experience.
- Review Qualifications: Carefully assess all criteria, ensuring you are between 18-30 and possess the required one year of relevant experience in urban or sustainable development fields.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary information detailing your academic and professional experience, especially regarding urban planning, advocacy, or community initiatives.
- Complete Application Form: Access the online application form and provide accurate, detailed responses, focusing on your passion for the SDGs and your proposed city-relevant project idea.
- Demonstrate Commitment: Clearly articulate your organizational and leadership skills, your capacity to manage communication across time zones, and your commitment to the 4-6 hours per week requirement for the 10-month position.
Application Deadline: Not Specified
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the specific focus of the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) program?
The LPF focuses on empowering young urban leaders to advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11), which is dedicated to sustainable cities and communities.
What is the required age range for applicants to the Fellowship?
Applicants must be aged between 18 and 30 years old in order to be eligible for the 2026 United Nations SDSN Youth Local Pathways Fellowship.
What is the duration and weekly commitment required for the LPF position?
The Local Pathways Fellowship is a 10-month position that requires a minimum commitment of 4–6 hours per week from the fellow.
Is the Local Pathways Fellowship a paid position?
No, the position is explicitly stated as voluntary and does not provide financial compensation; however, it offers significant professional development and networking benefits.
What is the main outcome or deliverable expected from a Fellow?
The main outcome is the development of a project that addresses challenges relevant to their city and area of interest in sustainable urban development.
What type of professional background is considered a strong asset for applicants?
Professional or academic experience in fields such as urban planning, urban environment, urban sustainability, urban tech, development practice, community engagement, or advocacy is considered a strong asset.
What is the size of the peer-to-peer network that Fellows gain access to?
Fellows connect with a vast peer-to-peer network of 750+ fellows from over 180 different cities across 80 countries.
Is proficiency in English mandatory for this Fellowship?
Yes, applicants must have an excellent command of the English language, including writing, speaking, and listening, as the program is conducted in English.
What specific resources must an applicant demonstrate they have access to?
Applicants must demonstrate they have the necessary time and resources to commit, including a consistent and stable internet connection.
What organization is responsible for launching the Local Pathways Fellowship program?
The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) was launched by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth).
