Application Deadline: June 27, 2025 at 12:00 AM (UTC+5:45)
Role Type: Volunteer (with financial support for participation costs)
Location: Remote / Worldwide
The Global Fund for Children (GFC) invites dynamic and socially engaged young leaders to apply for the 2025 cohort of its Youth Leadership Council (YLC). This global initiative aims to elevate youth voices in shaping strategies, programs, and decisions that impact children and young people worldwide.
About Global Fund for Children
GFC partners with grassroots organizations to advance a world where every child and youth can thrive. Since its inception in 1997, GFC has invested over $51 million in more than 900 local organizations, directly impacting over 11 million children and youth globally. GFC is committed to transforming power dynamics in philanthropy, investing in youth-driven change, and advocating for inclusive, community-based solutions.
About the Youth Leadership Council
The Youth Leadership Council is a volunteer body of young leaders aged 18–28 who serve as advisors to GFC. Members co-create strategies, offer insights into programs, and influence key decisions. The Council strengthens GFC’s commitment to youth autonomy, equity, and intergenerational collaboration.
Key objectives of the YLC include:
- Advocating for a more equitable funding system and youth-centered approaches.
- Supporting mutual learning between youth and the GFC team.
- Contributing to organizational areas such as programming, safeguarding, communications, and DEIA (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility).
Structure and Expectations
Time Commitment
YLC members are expected to dedicate approximately 5 hours per month, including:
- Bi-monthly virtual meetings (1.5 hours)
- Quarterly strategic meetings with GFC’s senior leadership
- Participation in selected working groups or organizational initiatives
Term
The volunteer term is two years, with the option for renewal. Flexibility is provided to accommodate members’ academic or professional obligations.
Council Roles
- Co-Chairs: Two elected members will represent the YLC, lead collaboration, and participate in GFC’s Board meetings.
- Engagement Areas: Members select one or more thematic or functional areas to contribute to, including:
- Communications & Outreach: Co-design campaigns with GFC’s communications team.
- Safeguarding & Inclusion: Collaborate on DEIA initiatives and promote community wellbeing.
- Regional Advocacy: Engage with regional teams to support grassroots youth initiatives.
Members ideally live in, or are originally from, countries where GFC operates. See active partner regions: GFC Partner Map
Eligibility Criteria
Ideal candidates will:
- Be 18–28 years old at the time of application.
- Demonstrate experience in youth leadership, social advocacy, community organizing, or youth-led initiatives.
- Show commitment to social justice, inclusion, and youth empowerment.
- Be able to communicate effectively in English and have reliable internet access.
Additional preferred qualifications include:
- Experience in areas aligned with GFC’s priorities: Education, Gender Equity, Youth Power, Climate Resilience, Safety & Wellbeing, Emergency Solidarity.
- Backgrounds from underrepresented or marginalized communities, including the Global South, LGBTQIA2S+, persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples, and non-university-educated individuals.
What Members Receive
While this is a volunteer position, GFC offers financial support to help cover costs related to participation (internet access, data, and other incidental expenses). The form and scope of this support are co-designed with Council members. Participants also benefit from:
- Professional mentorship and leadership training
- International peer networking
- Public recognition and visibility through GFC platforms
Application Process
Deadline: June 27, 2025 at 12:00 AM (UTC+5:45)
Start Date: August 2025
To apply, complete the online application form. The form includes:
- Basic information
- A short essay on your background and interest in the YLC
- A current résumé
- Two letters of recommendation
- A brief (2-minute) video in English introducing yourself and your vision
The selection process is collaborative, involving current YLC members and GFC staff. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a virtual conversation. All applicants will be notified of the outcome.
For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
GFC is an equal opportunity organization and strongly encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and lived experiences.
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
