Applications are invited for the Hindu Kush Himalaya–Arctic Youth Leadership Forum, a one-year fellowship focused on climate action and cryosphere preservation in the HKH and Arctic regions. This fully funded program, facilitated by ICIMOD and Arctic Circle, empowers 12 youth leaders (aged 19–35) to amplify their voices, build leadership skills, and co-create sustainable climate solutions. Open to citizens of HKH and Arctic countries involved in youth-focused climate or environmental programs, the fellowship has no application fee and requires submissions by 15 August 2025. Join a global network to influence climate policy and protect biodiversity. You can also check BS, MS and PhD positions
Key Details
- Program: HKH–Arctic Youth Leadership Forum
- Organizers: ICIMOD and Arctic Circle
- Duration: One-year fellowship
- Eligibility: Ages 19–35, citizens of HKH or Arctic countries, involved in youth-focused climate/environmental programs
- Focus: Climate action, cryosphere preservation, biodiversity
- Funding: Fully funded (travel, accommodation, participation costs for Forum in Reykjavik, Iceland)
- Application Deadline: 15 August 2025
- Application Fee: None
Overview
The Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and Arctic regions are losing their frozen water, known as the cryosphere, at alarming rates, impacting local communities, cultures, and ecosystems. The HKH is warming twice as fast as the global average, while the Arctic is warming nearly four times faster. Young people in these regions are not just affected; they are key to creating sustainable climate solutions.
Program Goals
The Forum aims to:
- Create a Platform: Establish an annual Youth Leadership Forum to promote mountain and polar youth as climate leaders.
- Empower Youth: Equip young leaders with skills, networks, and opportunities to influence climate decision-making.
- Foster Collaboration: Build partnerships for sustainable, youth-focused climate solutions.
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Who Can Apply?
The Forum seeks 12 youth leaders from HKH and Arctic regions to form the first-ever HKH–Arctic Youth Leadership Forum. Candidates should be:
- 19–35 years old.
- Citizens of an HKH or Arctic country (check the list below).
- Part of a youth-focused climate or environmental organization or program.
- Demonstrated passion for Arctic and/or HKH climate issues, especially cryosphere and biodiversity.
- Strong public speaking, English proficiency, and comfort with social media/content creation.
- Able to dedicate 4–7 hours per month for one year.
- Must have a laptop, reliable internet, and a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond October 2025.
- Desirable:
- Familiarity with climate conventions (e.g., UNFCCC, COP).
- Experience in gender-responsive climate solutions or gender equality initiatives.
- Community involvement through volunteer or climate-related activities.
Also check: UNICEF Internship Programme
Eligible Countries
- Arctic Countries:
- Iceland
- Russia
- United States
- Denmark
- Finland
- Sweden
- Canada
- Norway
- Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) Countries:
- Bhutan
- Afghanistan
- Nepal
- China
- Myanmar
- Pakistan
- India
- Bangladesh
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Benefits
- Fully Funded: Travel, accommodation, and participation costs for the Forum in Reykjavik, Iceland, are covered.
- Training: Access capacity-building sessions and mentorship from HKH and Arctic climate experts.
- Visibility: Gain regional and global exposure through content creation and international forums.
- Networking: Connect with youth leaders, scientists, and policymakers.
- Opportunities: Potential to attend additional conferences and expand your professional network.
- Certification: Receive a participation certificate and reference letters upon completion.
Wonderful opportunity: Chevening Scholarships for Master’s Degrees
Application Process
Deadline: 15 August 2025
To apply, submit the following via the application form:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of endorsement from your organization, faculty, or supervisor
- Personal statement (max 500 words, in English)
- 2-minute video pitch (in English)
- Copy of your passport’s personal information page
