Every two years, 17 young change-makers are recognized for their leadership and contribution to a more sustainable world

On September 19, 2016, the Office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth unveiled the inaugural class of the Young Leaders for the Sustainable Development Goals – 17 young change-makers whose leadership is catalyzing the achievement of the Goals.

From food to fashion to finance, the Young Leaders for the SDGs come from many different backgrounds, represent every region in the world and help young people worldwide in support of the Goals.

Convened by the Envoy on Youth, the Young Leaders for the SDGs are recognized for their leadership and contribution to a more sustainable world.

As a community, they work to support efforts to engage young people in the realization of the SDGs both through strategic opportunities with the UN and through their existing initiatives, platforms and networks.

The Young Leaders for the SDGs support one or more of the following:

Advocate for the Goals, in ways most accessible and relatable to young people across different contexts;

Promote innovative ways of engaging their audiences and peers in the advocacy and realization of the Goals;

Contribute to a brain trust of young leaders supporting the UN and partners for key moments and initiatives related to the Goals.

Learn more about the former classes of Young Leaders for the SDGs: 2016 Class, 2018 Class, 2020 Class, 2022 Class.

Following an open call for applications earlier this year, which resulted in more than 5,400 applications from over 190 countries, this next cohort of Young Leaders for the SDGs hail from all corners of the world and work across all pillars of the UN, including sustainable development, human rights, and peace and security.