Applications are now open for the 2025 Youth Leader Fund for a World Without Nuclear Weapons, an initiative by UNODA. This unique educational program is designed to prepare the next generation of leaders by providing them with the knowledge, skills, and connections necessary to contribute to global efforts aimed at eliminating nuclear weapons, the most destructive armaments ever created. It seeks individuals who are eager to use their abilities to drive change toward a more peaceful and secure world.

Selected participants will undergo training on the fundamental concepts of nuclear disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation through an online curriculum. A selected group will then have the opportunity to participate in a fully funded, week-long educational trip to Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As part of the program, participants will engage in discussions with experts from think tanks, civil society organizations, media, and diplomatic circles. They will also gain practical experience and develop essential skills that will enable them to contribute meaningfully to nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control efforts.

This initiative is aimed at bringing together a diverse and globally representative group of young advocates for nuclear disarmament, ranging in age from 18 to 29. Applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of applying and should not exceed 29 years of age by the application deadline. The opportunity is open to individuals from all nationalities and territories. Since the program will be conducted exclusively in English, proficiency in the language is required. There are no specific academic requirements, and individuals from all educational backgrounds are encouraged to apply, provided they have an interest in working towards a world free of nuclear weapons and a willingness to learn.

For the online training component, participants must have a good command of English and access to a computer or mobile device with video and audio capabilities. A stable internet connection is essential, though no special software or prior knowledge of disarmament and non-proliferation is necessary.

The initiative is structured to run from 2023 to 2030, divided into four two-year phases. The current application cycle pertains to the second phase, covering the years 2025 and 2026. The program begins with a dynamic and interactive online learning phase lasting four months. Participants will complete self-paced e-learning modules, participate in discussions, and develop a solid foundation on key disarmament and non-proliferation topics. They will also engage in skill-building exercises, hands-on assignments, and live webinars where they can directly interact with experts and fellow participants. The estimated weekly commitment for this phase is between four to six hours.

Following the successful completion of the online component, fifty individuals will be selected for a six-day educational journey to Japan, where they will visit Hiroshima and Nagasaki. During this immersive experience, they will meet and learn from hibakusha, survivors of the atomic bombings, as well as engage with local youth. Together, they will organize a youth-led event that fosters discussions and knowledge exchange on disarmament-related themes.

Beyond the study tour, participants will be expected to collaborate on impactful initiatives designed to raise awareness and inspire change within their communities. These efforts will contribute to the broader movement advocating for a nuclear-free world. Additionally, participants will remain engaged beyond the completion of the program by mentoring future cohorts. Those from the earlier phase of the initiative may also offer guidance to new participants through an optional mentorship program.

The program covers all costs associated with the in-person study trip to Japan, including round-trip economy-class airfare, accommodation, daily expenses, and participation in all scheduled activities. However, selected individuals must ensure they have valid travel documents, including a passport and any necessary visas, before departure. A global medical insurance policy is also required for those traveling to Japan.

All participants who complete the online learning component will be awarded an official certificate from UNODA. Those who are chosen for the in-person experience will not only benefit from the immersive learning opportunity but will also receive support in covering all related expenses, making this an invaluable experience for young leaders passionate about contributing to a world without nuclear weapons.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity