Apply for the Fully Funded United People Global (UPG) Sustainability Leader Program 2026

United People Global (UPG) invites motivated individuals from around the world to apply for the next cohort of UPG Sustainability Leaders, one of the world’s largest and most inclusive training programs focused on sustainability leadership. Each year, more than 500 participants from all global regions are trained to become ambassadors of positive citizen action. These leaders join a growing network committed to addressing sustainability challenges through local, community-driven solutions.

UPG Sustainability Leaders have already trained more than 86,000 citizens worldwide, demonstrating the power of youth-led and community-based action. The upcoming cohort offers aspiring leaders the opportunity to join a global family of changemakers committed to building a more sustainable and equitable world.

About the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program

The UPG Sustainability Leadership program is designed to equip individuals with the skills, tools and global connections needed to lead sustainability actions within their communities. This free, competitive training initiative provides structured learning, practical applications and opportunities for participants to implement real-world impact projects.

Successful applicants begin as Candidates in the program’s learning journey. Those who successfully complete all components and demonstrate leadership potential graduate as official UPG Sustainability Leaders, becoming part of a global movement advocating for practical, citizen-led sustainability solutions.

What UPG Is Looking For

UPG aims to recruit a diverse mix of leaders who bring unique perspectives, experiences and passions. The selection process prioritises motivation, commitment and potential for positive influence—rather than a specific academic or professional profile.

The program welcomes individuals who:

• Are passionate about at least one sustainability issue, such as environment, education, jobs, oceans or public health
• May already have experience taking action, or may be just starting out
• Come from any world region
• Are aged 18 to 35 between 1 March and 31 July 2026
• Possess differing levels of education and backgrounds
• Are motivated to take action and contribute meaningfully to their communities
• Believe in UPG’s mission of empowering people through positive action
• Can speak, write and read English, as all training components are delivered in English

The program values diversity and encourages applicants from all identities, abilities, and levels of experience to apply. Every applicant has a fair opportunity during selection.

Evaluation Criteria

Applications are reviewed across four key areas:

• Profile
  Highlights who the applicant is and how they contribute to program diversity.
• Motivation
  Demonstrates interest in UPG Sustainability Leadership and commitment to taking action.
• Capability
  Assesses practical ability to lead, implement projects and engage with community stakeholders.
• Potential for Impact
  Evaluates the promise of the applicant’s ideas and their capacity to positively influence their community.

Optional Video Submission

Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit a short video (up to two minutes) to introduce themselves, answer any section’s questions or showcase their motivation. The video also supports the review of English language skills.
Videos can be submitted:

• By including a link within the application
• After submitting the application by uploading at: upglive.org/sharecontent-upgs

All video submissions must be received by the final application deadline to be considered.

Program Cost

The training itself is free of charge for selected participants.
Applicants must submit a CHF 5 application fee (approximately USD 6) to complete the submission process. This fee covers administrative processing and may be paid immediately or after submitting the form, using instructions provided upon completion.

About United People Global (UPG)

UPG is a global community dedicated to enabling individuals to create positive change. From sustainability and economic empowerment to youth skills development and global citizenship, UPG supports people in building a better world through intentional, inclusive action.

Application Notes

Applicants must confirm their readiness to proceed before accessing the full form.
UPG encourages all interested individuals to review additional information, including:

• Become a UPG Champion
• Terms of Service
• Privacy Policy

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official 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.