Deadline: 21-Jul-2025
Are you between 18 and 30 years old and passionate about environmental peacebuilding? Do you want to join an intercommunal team to create real change on environmental issues? This is your chance to become part of the UN Youth Champions for Environment and Peace network and make your voice heard!
Through the regional Youth Connect programme and in partnership with UNFICYP, the UN is offering the acclaimed Youth Champions programme focused on environmental peacebuilding and joint actions to tackle shared environmental challenges.
The programme includes an immersive workshop on September 5, 6, 7, and 13, 2025, designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge to develop environmental projects in teams. These projects must be implemented by January 2026. The timing is critical as societies face urgent pressures to transition towards sustainability amid rising climate impacts fueling insecurity and inequality.
This initiative specifically aims to empower young people in Cyprus to play an active role in peacebuilding by fostering dialogue, building trust, and promoting collaborative environmental actions across communities. By the end of the programme, participants will be connected to local and international organisations, activists, and the inspiring Youth Champions network.
The workshop will be held in person in the buffer zone of Nicosia and will include lectures, interactive sessions, discussions with UN experts, the British Council, young climate activists, and group work. During group work, you will meet fellow participants, form teams, and develop environmental projects with support from mentors and organisations.
After the workshop, teams must finalize their project proposals for funding. Each team will receive a small grant to implement their action by January 2026, aiming to impact communities across Cyprus. Attendance on all workshop days is mandatory, and certificates will be awarded to those who fully participate and contribute.
To apply, you must be 18-30 years old, live in Cyprus, and be interested in environmental and peace issues. You should be motivated to engage fully in the workshop and project implementation, have good English skills, and be eager to build relationships with youth from all communities in Cyprus. No prior experience in environmental peacebuilding is required, but previous UN Youth Champions alumni are not eligible.
The programme strives for gender balance and equal representation from all Cypriot communities. Accommodation may be available during the first workshop weekend for those who need it, depending on demand.
Please note all activities will take place in the Ledra Palace Hotel within the UN buffer zone in Nicosia. Entry is subject to approval by the respective authorities, so ensure you have the necessary documentation to enter the area.
For more information, visit British Council.
