SDSN Youth is hiring a Local Pathways Fellow (2026 Cohort)

ROLE DESCRIPTION Local Pathways Fellow, 2026 Cohort March - December 2026 SDSN Youth (SDSN Association) Worldwide, Remote PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) initiative was established by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth Program with the objective of empowering and preparing young urban innovators from global cities with essential knowledge, resources, and platforms to advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 11. The LPF cultivates, supports, and interconnects young urban thought leaders, change-makers, and innovators who are reimagining and transforming urban environments. Applicants from any global location are welcome, with SDSN Youth prioritizing regional diversity among selected participants. Applications for the 2026 cohort of the Local Pathways Fellowship conclude on December 21st, 2025. We appreciate your interest in our program. ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES The LPF is a 10-month program guiding fellows through mapping strategies for 'localizing' SDG 11. The program's monthly activities focus on: • Exploring significant challenges confronting urban environments worldwide and understanding their extraordinary potential for future transformation. From infrastructure to cultural dynamics to economic opportunities, comprehending how urban development can drive global progress is crucial. • Transforming acquired insights into a comprehensive project addressing challenges specific to their city and area of interest; this project serves as the fellowship's primary deliverable. • Engaging with a peer network comprising 750+ fellows from 180 distinct cities across 80 countries, facilitating knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and collaborative solution development. • Accessing expert insights and mentorship through the LPF specialized webinar series. QUALIFICATIONS To be considered for the Local Pathways Fellowship, applicants must satisfy these requirements: • Demonstrate enthusiasm for sustainable development and alignment with SDSN and SDSN Youth's mission, including commitment to Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. • Possess comprehensive understanding of urban planning, environmental sustainability, technological innovations, development practices, community engagement, or advocacy. • Hold minimum one year of academic or professional experience in relevant domains. • Professional or academic background in urban-related fields considered advantageous. • Capable of maintaining responsive communication across multiple time zones. • Exhibit exceptional organizational and leadership capabilities. • Demonstrate collaborative skills, project coordination abilities, and problem-solving aptitude. • Demonstrate advanced English proficiency, including writing, speaking, listening, and local language competence. • Confirm availability of time, resources, and consistent internet connectivity. • Age range between 18-30 years. COMMITMENT The Local Pathways Fellowship requires a 10-month engagement involving 4-6 weekly hours. CONDITIONS • Position Duration: 10-month minimum commitment with 2-month probationary period • Supervision: Managed by Local Pathways Fellowship Program team • Compensation: Voluntary position • Training: Mandatory completion of SDSN Youth online induction courses BENEFITS • Global visibility as sustainable urban development champions • Opportunities for expertise development • Access to extensive SDG professional network • Participation in global sustainable development movement • Connection with high-level stakeholders • Engagement with diverse, exceptional fellowship cohort • Potential event participation • Expert-supported professional environment • Foundation for future professional endeavors • Central contribution to program's legacy and impact