Applications are open for the Global Youth Biodiversity Network (GYBN) Fellowships 2026, a set of programmes supporting young leaders working on biodiversity conservation, environmental advocacy, and community-driven change.
Since 2022, GYBN fellowships have supported youth-led initiatives across regions, helping young people design and implement projects rooted in their local contexts. These initiatives have gone on to gain global visibility, including participation in major international platforms such as COP15 and COP16.
The fellowships aim to strengthen youth leadership, amplify community voices, and support young changemakers working to protect ecosystems and drive environmental action.
Available Fellowships
GYBN is currently offering four fellowship tracks:
Youth Communications & Storytelling Fellowship: Supports youth communicators and creatives to amplify community stories, strengthen youth-led narratives, and shape values-driven communication across the GYBN network.
Youth Policy Support Fellowship: Provides young leaders with hands-on experience in biodiversity policy engagement, supporting youth advocacy efforts at regional and global levels.
Youth Community Building Fellowship: Focuses on strengthening grassroots youth-led communities by fostering collaboration, connection, and collective action across regions.
Youth Capacity Building Fellowship: Supports youth leaders in creating and facilitating learning spaces that promote shared knowledge, leadership development, and community-driven conservation efforts.
Programme Focus
The fellowships are designed to:
- Support youth-led biodiversity action and environmental advocacy
- Strengthen leadership and collaboration across communities
- Build skills in communication, policy engagement, and community organising
- Amplify local solutions to global environmental challenges
Who Can Apply
The fellowships are open to young leaders and changemakers engaged in biodiversity, environmental protection, and community-based initiatives.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Active involvement in youth-led or community-based work
- Interest in biodiversity conservation and environmental action
- Commitment to collaboration and collective learning
