Deadline: July 31, 2025

Applications are open for the Hindu Kush Himalaya – Arctic Youth Leadership Forum 2025. The Earth’s cryosphere – its frozen water – is rapidly disappearing, changing life dramatically in two of the most climate-vulnerable regions: the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) and the Arctic. The HKH is warming at twice the global average; the Arctic is warming nearly four times faster. At the heart of this crisis are the young people of these regions, who are already feeling the impacts on their homes, cultures, and the future. More than passive observers, they are custodians of ecological knowledge, stewards of biodiversity, and key stakeholders in building resilient futures.

The HKH–Arctic Youth Leadership Forum, facilitated by ICIMOD and Arctic Circle, aims to connect youth leaders from both regions to build solidarity, amplifying local and mountain youth voices towards co-creating sustainable and inclusive climate solutions. Through a one-year fellowship, 12 youth champions (aged 19–35) will gain the knowledge, skills, and networks to lead from the frontlines, bringing local realities and experiences to global climate platforms.


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Benefits

  • Fully covered travel, accommodation, and participation costs for the Forum launch in Reykjavik, Iceland, October 2025.
  • Capacity-building, training sessions, and mentorship with climate and mountain experts from HKH and Arctic regions.
  • Regional and global visibility through content creation, youth reports, and participation in international forums.
  • Access to a growing network of HKH and Arctic youth leaders, scientists, and policymakers.
  • Opportunities to attend conferences and expand your professional network.
  • Certification of participation and reference letters upon successful completion.

Eligibility

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  • Applicants must be between 19–35 years of age.
  • Must be a citizen of an HKH or Arctic country.
  • Must be part of a youth-focused climate or environmental organisation or programme.
  • Demonstrated interest in Arctic and/or HKH climate and environmental issues, especially cryosphere and biodiversity.
  • Leadership potential and community involvement through volunteer work or climate-related activities.
  • Willingness to collaborate with diverse stakeholders across youth climate networks.
  • Commitment to gender equality and inclusive engagement.
  • Strong public speaking and English language skills.
  • Comfortable with social media and content creation.
  • Ability to commit 4–7 hours per month for one year.
  • Access to a laptop and reliable internet connection.
  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond October 2025.

Application

To apply, complete the form and upload the following documents:

  • Updated Curriculum Vitae
  • Letter of endorsement from organisation/faculty/supervisor
  • Short personal statement in English (max 500 words)
  • 2-minute video pitch in English
  • Copy of passport’s personal information page

Click here to apply


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For more information, visit HKH Arctic Youth Leadership Forum.

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