A Transformative Pathway for Youth Leadership

The UNOPS Youth Engagement Platform (YEP) offers a rare and influential opportunity for young leaders worldwide to contribute directly to the governance, strategic direction, and vision of UNOPS. Designed for individuals aged 17 to 29, the platform empowers youth to provide informed perspectives on sustainable development while actively shaping policies and programmes that influence millions. This one-year, home-based, pro-bono engagement invites committed young people to bring their lived experiences to the forefront of global decision-making.

Purpose and Vision of YEP

The Platform was founded under the motto “30 below 30, to get 2030”, reflecting its mission to gather 30 exceptional young leaders 15 internal UNOPS talents and 15 external candidates to co-create solutions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UNOPS Executive Director and Management, YEP ensures that youth perspectives are integrated throughout organisational strategy, operational guidance, and global development initiatives.

Through this platform, young leaders contribute their creativity, analytical skills, and community-rooted knowledge, strengthening UNOPS’ capacity to respond to emerging development challenges. YEP also acts as an ambassadorial group, representing UNOPS externally at key global forums and reinforcing the role of youth in multilateral systems.

A High-Impact Role with Global Visibility

As a member of the Youth Engagement Platform, participants serve as youth advisors, providing strategic input grounded in real-world experiences. They help analyse challenges affecting young people across sectors such as climate action, infrastructure, fragility, procurement, and project management. Members review UNOPS initiatives through a youth, diversity, and intergenerational lens, proposing practical solutions that support more inclusive and impactful development outcomes.

While this is not a staff position, YEP members gain substantial exposure to the UN system, contributing to internal briefings, participating in high-level consultations, and engaging in global youth forums. They develop essential skills in public speaking, leadership, advocacy, and policy analysis—key capabilities for future development professionals.

Core Functions and Expected Contributions

YEP’s work is structured around four major result areas:

1. Generating Youth-Led Insights on Development Trends

Members identify risks and opportunities affecting young communities and provide timely analysis for UNOPS strategies and policies. They offer feedback on global events, contribute perspectives to foresight exercises, and ensure youth realities are reflected in UNOPS decision-making.

2. Providing Strategic Advisory Support

YEP serves as a consultative body for reviewing strategic frameworks, supporting inclusive policy development, and co-creating recommendations that enrich UNOPS’ relevance. Members participate in dialogues with senior leadership and advise on innovation-driven solutions that address youth concerns.

3. Advancing Youth Representation Globally

YEP members may represent UNOPS in regional and international events, contribute to advocacy messaging, and participate in system-wide UN youth initiatives. Their involvement amplifies youth voices in global development conversations.

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4. Strengthening Youth-Inclusive Project Delivery

YEP contributes feedback on project approaches to improve youth engagement and benefit-sharing. Members help identify best practices, refine operational standards, and ensure safe, ethical youth participation in UNOPS programmes.

Eligibility and Desired Profile

Applicants must demonstrate youth leadership and involvement in community initiatives, youth networks, or SDG-related activities. Experience in advocacy, public speaking, or collaboration across diverse groups is strongly valued. While no advanced academic qualifications are required, a strong understanding of global development issues enhances eligibility.

Application Requirements

Candidates must submit a combined PDF containing a resume, a project description (max 2,000 characters), and a link to a 90-second video explaining their passion for sustainable development and potential value to YEP. The internship runs for 12 months, from a home-based duty station, with compensation provided only for official travel.

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