The Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) program was launched by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth) with the mission to empower and equip young urban leaders from cities across the world with the knowledge, resources, and platform they need to advance progress on Sustainable Development Goal 11.

The LPF trains, supports, and connects young urban thought leaders, activists, and innovators that are transforming cities and urban areas.

Candidates representing any city and country in the world are encouraged to apply, however, SDSN Youth will make efforts to ensure diversity of regional representation among the fellows.

Applications for the 2026 cohort of the Local Pathways Fellowship close on December 21st, 2025. Thank you for your interest in the program.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The LPF is a 10-month program that takes fellows on a journey of charting pathways for ‘localizing’ SDG 11. The program of activities has monthly deliverables that revolve around:

• Learning about the major challenges currently faced by urban areas around the world and the extraordinary potential of these areas to enable change in the future. From infrastructure to culture to economic opportunity, learn how harnessing the power of urban development for global progress is imperative.

• Channeling the ideas and knowledge they acquire into the development of a project that addresses challenges pertinent to their city and area of interest; this will be the main outcome and deliverable of the fellowship.
• Connecting with the peer-to-peer network of 750+ fellows from 180 different cities across 80 countries. This grants fellows the opportunity to exchange knowledge, share resources, and build solutions with urban leaders from across the world

• Gaining insight and mentorship from experts from the industry through the LPF webinar series.

QUALIFICATIONS

In order to be selected as a Local Pathways Fellow, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• An interest in sustainable development, be passionate about the mission of the SDSN and SDSN Youth including the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate change.
• Strong knowledge in urban planning, urban environment, urban sustainability, urban tech, development practice, community engagement, advocacy, or related fields
• At least one year of academic or professional experience in relevant fields such as urban planning, advocacy, or community initiatives.
• Professional or academic experience in urban planning, urban environment, urban sustainability, urban tech, development practice, community engagement, advocacy or related fields or similar fields would be considered a strong asset
• Responsive and be able to manage regular communication with the team across different time zones.
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Proven to be a team player with good interpersonal skills and ability to coordinate develop projects and be problem solvers
• Excellent command of the English language including writing, speaking, listening and the local language of the cities they represent.
• Demonstrate that they have the time and resources to commit as well as having Consistent and stable internet connection
• Aged between 18-30 in order to be eligible for this role

COMMITMENT

• The Local Pathways Fellowship is a 10-month position that requires 4-6 hours per week

CONDITIONS

• Duration of Position: This position requires a minimum commitment of 10 months, with a 2-month probation period
• Supervision: This position is supervised by the team of Local Pathways Fellowship Program.
• Compensation: This position is voluntary.
• Training: All fellows are required to complete all SDSN Youth online induction courses, including team training.

BENEFITS

• The fellows will benefit from global visibility and exposure as champions for sustainable urban development, numerous opportunities to develop their expertise, as well as access to our vast network of SDG professionals and advocates.
• Being part of SDSN Youth and the Local Pathways Fellowship enables you to be at the forefront of efforts taken by the United Nations, governments, companies, and civil society in developing and leading a global movement for sustainable development and enables you to make an impact.
• Being part of a movement of young people, who are committed to sustainable development and are being equipped with the necessary skills and tools to overcome key challenges and meaningfully contribute to the achievement of SDGs in communities.
• SDSN Youth and the Local Pathways Fellowship enables you to build professional and personal relationships with high-level stakeholders in civil society, business, government, and the United Nations.
• By joining the Local Pathways Fellowship, you will be part of a diverse and exceptional group of fellows with a variety of cultural, religious, and political backgrounds, committed to sustainable development.
• The relationships you develop through SDSN Youth and the Local Pathways Fellowship could serve as a foundation for your future endeavors.
• Supported by our global team of experts, you will progress rapidly in a challenging but flexible, fulfilling, and meaningful environment.
• You may be selected to attend and/or speak at events
• Your experiences will become central to our program ́s efforts and legacy.