Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education: Empowering Youth to Shape a Sustainable Future
Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education is a groundbreaking initiative designed to elevate youth-led climate education projects and foster global collaboration.
This fellowship is more than an opportunity—it’s a movement to reimagine climate education so that every child, everywhere, grows up prepared, empowered, and able to shape a just and sustainable future.
🌱 What Is the Fellowship About?
The Leading Minds Climate Education Fellowship brings together a global cohort of young leaders (ages 10–30) who are actively strengthening climate education in schools, communities, and countries. Fellows will:
Elevate youth-led initiatives and “Bright Spots” in climate education.
Conduct research and foresight to anticipate future challenges.
Shape policy and participate in national and global dialogues.
Produce stories, tools, and evidence to improve education systems.
Co-design and co-host strategic convenings with global partners.
Selected initiatives are eligible to receive grant support of up to $20,000, making this fellowship both impactful and practical.
📚 Examples of Youth-Led Climate Education Initiatives
The fellowship welcomes diverse approaches to climate education, including:
School system integration: curriculum development, climate clubs, or educational networks.
Government partnerships: collaborative models with policymakers and education authorities.
Rights-based and justice frameworks: linking climate education to equity, justice, and human rights.
Community resilience projects: campaigns or informal learning initiatives led locally.
Digital campaigns and media: storytelling, online platforms, and awareness-raising initiatives.
If you’re helping others learn, adapt, engage, or act on the climate crisis, this fellowship is designed for you.
💡 Why Apply?
Becoming a Leading Minds Climate Education Fellow offers a wealth of opportunities:
Stipend for contributions during the fellowship period.
Technical mentorship and collaboration with research partners.
Visibility and speaking opportunities on global platforms.
Hands-on experience in child rights, foresight, youth engagement, and advocacy.
Leadership development and access to a global network of youth advocates.
Grant support up to $20,000 for selected initiatives.
👩🎓 Who Can Apply?
UNICEF is selecting up to 12 young climate leaders who meet the following criteria:
Aged 10–30 years.
Leading or representing a climate education initiative.
Passionate about climate action and creating positive change.
Able to dedicate 4–5 hours per week from February 2026 to July 2027.
Comfortable working in English (knowledge of other UN languages is an asset).
📅 Key Details
Application Period: Open now
Fellowship Duration: February 2026 – July 2027
Grant Support: Up to $20,000 per selected initiative
Contact: innocentiyouth@unicef.org
For more information, FAQs, and eligibility details, visit UNICEF’s official fellowship page.
🌍 Final Thoughts
The Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education is a unique opportunity for young changemakers to lead the way in rethinking how the world educates children about climate change. By joining this fellowship, you’ll not only strengthen your own initiative but also contribute to a global movement that ensures future generations are equipped to build a sustainable and just world.
This is your chance to lead the future of climate education—apply now and be part of the transformation.