UNICEF has officially opened applications for the 2026 Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education, a prestigious global program offering up to $20,000 in project funding to young Nigerians aged 10–30 who are passionate about climate education and community resilience.
This fellowship is designed to empower youth-led initiatives that teach children, schools, and communities about climate change, adaptation, and sustainable living.
Benefits of the UNICEF Leading Minds Fellowship
- Up to $20,000 project grant (non-repayable)
- Monthly stipend to support your work
- One-on-one mentorship from UNICEF climate experts, researchers, and educators
- Leadership and advocacy training (systems thinking, storytelling, research, community engagement)
- Global media exposure and opportunities to speak at international events
- Membership in a worldwide network of youth climate-education leaders
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
- Nigerian citizens or residents aged 10–30 years
- Must be leading or representing a youth-driven climate-education initiative (can be existing or a strong new idea)
- Projects must focus on climate education, awareness, or community resilience
- Able to commit 4–5 hours per week from February 2026 to July 2027
- Comfortable communicating and working in English
- Open to individuals, school groups, youth organizations, or informal teams
What Fellows Will Do During the Program
- Scale and document their climate-education projects
- Contribute to youth-led research and foresight studies
- Develop innovative educational tools and campaigns
- Produce stories, evidence, and resources for global climate learning
- Participate in international dialogues, webinars, and policy conversations
How to Apply for UNICEF Leading Minds Fellowship 2026
Applications are submitted online. Prepare a short description of your project or idea, your motivation, and evidence of your work (photos, videos, reports, etc.).