Overview

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network – Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth) has officially launched applications for the 2025 Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) program. This prestigious opportunity invites passionate young leaders from around the world to advance sustainable urban development and contribute to the realization of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Each year, the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) identifies and brings together a group of exceptional early-career professionals and students, aged 18 to 30, for its impactful 10-month program. This fellowship offers a unique platform for individuals passionate about sustainable urban development to enhance their expertise and broaden their perspectives. Participants are required to commit 4-6 hours per week from March to December, fostering in-depth learning and collaborative opportunities.

The Local Pathways Fellowship serves as a vibrant platform for young professionals and students to take the lead in addressing urban challenges. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), LPF enables fellows to design and implement localized projects that create meaningful change in their communities.

Through its online training modules, mentorship from global experts, and peer collaboration, the fellowship has empowered over 700 urban leaders since its inception in 2016 at the UN Habitat III Conference in Quito, Ecuador.

In 2024, the program brought together 103 fellows from 85 cities, strengthening its reputation as a hub for global innovation in sustainable urban development.

Who Can Apply?

To be considered for the fellowship, applicants must:

• Demonstrate a passion for sustainable development, particularly SDG 11 and the Paris Agreement on climate change.
• Possess knowledge in urban planning, sustainability, advocacy, or related fields, with at least one year of academic or professional experience.
• Exhibit strong leadership, organizational, and team collaboration skills.
• Be fluent in English and the local language of their represented city.
• Be aged between 18 and 30 years.
• Have reliable internet access and the ability to commit 4-6 hours per week for 10 months.

Application Procedure

1. Review Eligibility Criteria

2. Prepare Required Documents

3. Visit the Official Application Portal 

4. Complete the Online Application Form

5. Submit Your Application

6. Await Confirmation

7. Stay Updated

What Financial Support is Available?

Participation in the program is free, ensuring accessibility for passionate young leaders from diverse backgrounds.

Other Details

Since its inception, the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF) has received over 3,400 applications from around the world, reflecting its growing popularity and international appeal. Initially, LPF aimed to select at least 50 fellows per cohort, with the 2018 and 2019 cohorts consisting of 63 and 57 fellows, respectively. However, due to the rising number of applications, LPF increased its target to 100 fellows per cohort, enabling the program to engage a wider pool of talented individuals passionate about sustainable urban development. Now, after five cohorts, LPF has evolved into a network of over 450 fellows from 225 cities in 85 countries. These fellows are driving change in their communities and enhancing urban living, demonstrating leadership and innovation to make a lasting impact on sustainable urban development worldwide.

For More Information

Visit the official website: www.localpathways.org.