International Gender Champions (IGC) Youth Champions Programme 2024 – apply now!

The International Gender Champions (IGC) Secretariat is delighted to announce the launch of its new pilot initiative, the Youth Champions Programme, with the support of the United States Mission to the United Nations and Other International Organizations in Geneva.

To effectively dismantle barriers to gender equality, joining efforts of committed leaders across different generations is key. Our programme seeks to amplify the voices of a vibrant generation of future leaders and highlight their role as catalysts for positive change, while providing them with a platform to advance their work and tap into the expertise of international decision-makers. Established Gender Champions, in turn, will benefit from the unique perspectives, expertise and skills of young activists.

The six-month pilot initiative will connect Geneva-based Gender Champions and six young gender equality activists from different parts of the world in a dynamic and reciprocal mentoring exchange. By transitioning away from a conventional mentoring format towards a more collaborative and inclusive exchange, the programme seeks to:

• Foster intergenerational dialogue;
• Amplify the voices of next-generation leaders by providing them with a platform to advance their work and tap into the expertise of international decision-makers;
• Cultivate learning opportunities for established decision-makers, who stand to gain invaluable insights, expertise and skills from young activists.

Benefits

• The Youth Champions Fellowship Programme connects Geneva-based Gender Champions and young gender equality activists from around the world for a 6- month mutual mentoring exchange.
• The programme amplifies the voices of a vibrant generation of future leaders and highlights their role as catalysts for positive change in the sphere of gender equality. It will provide young activists with a platform to advance their work and allow them to tap into the expertise of established international leaders.
• Established Geneva-based Gender Champions benefit from the unique perspectives and expertise of young activists.
• The mentoring exchange transcends the traditional format of hierarchical knowledge transfer, moving towards a more horizontal knowledge exchange to promote intergenerational dialogue.

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Eligibility for IGC Youth Champions Programme

• Applicants should have a proven track record of activism and community organizing focused on gender equality. This can include but is not limited to involvement in grassroots  movements, advocacy work, organizing events, or leading initiatives within their communities.
• The programme is open to individuals of all gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, ethnicities, religions, and geographical backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in their work.
• Familiarity with the English language (equivalent to level B2) is required, as the programme will be conducted in English.
• Participants must treat everyone with respect and fairness; value diversity; create and maintain a safe working environment; and work together with the Gender Champions in the spirit of openness, honesty and transparency. Youth Champions will adhere to the IGC’s Panel Parity and GBV pledges.

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Application of IGC Youth Champions Programme

As part of their application, activists are required to submit their CVs, outline their motivation, and share a video presentation of themselves. Alongside having a proven track record of activism and community organising focused on gender equality, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and diversity in their work, be proficient in English and adhere to the IGC’s values and pledges, including the Panel Parity Pledge and GBV Pledge.