The Network of Youth for Sustainable Initiative (NGYouthSDGs) is now accepting applications for the 2026 cohort of its flagship program, the Youth Activators Lab (YAL). This is an exciting opportunity for young leaders in Nigeria to deepen their impact, build leadership skills, and spearhead systemic change tied to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What Is YAL?
YAL is a six-month leadership and systems‑thinking incubator.
It was created to build on the previous NGYouthSDGs Champions Programme, refining it into a more powerful vehicle for youth-led change.
The program supports associates (fellows) to design and implement campaigns, engage with policymakers, and drive SDG‑aligned projects in their communities.
Key Features & Benefits
Training & Capacity Building: Monthly virtual training in systems thinking, advocacy, stakeholder engagement, fundraising, project management, and more.
Mentorship: Participants will have access to seasoned mentors, including global change leaders, to guide their development.
Co‑Design & Implementation: Associates will co-create programs with NGYouthSDGs and run community campaigns or projects.
Project Pitch Competition: Fellows get to pitch their ideas for funding, turning learning into real-world interventions.
Networking: Connect with like-minded young leaders from across Nigeria and potentially represent NGYouthSDGs at high-level events.
Graduation & Certification: At the end, participants receive certificates and join a graduation ceremony.
Alumni Network: Graduates become part of NGYouthSDGs’s broader network, gaining long-term access to resources, mentorship, and opportunities.
Who Can Apply
Age: 18 to 29 years.
Location: Must be residing in Nigeria and plan to stay for the duration of the program.
Availability: Be ready to commit 8–10 hours per month over the six months.
Passion for Change: Demonstrated or genuine interest in youth development, SDGs, social impact, or community activism.
Application Process
Submission Window: Applications are open from 5th November to 21st November 2025.
Screening & Interviews: After application, shortlisted candidates will be invited to a 10-minute introductory call to discuss their goals and needs.
Interest Form & Reference: Finalists will be asked to complete an interest form and submit a reference.
Acceptance & Onboarding: Successful applicants will be notified between 9th–13th January and will receive an onboarding package.
Program Duration: The 2026 cohort runs from January to June 2026.
Why You Should Apply
Develop critical leadership skills that go beyond superficial solutions by learning systems thinking.
Gain hands-on experience designing and executing community projects and campaigns.
Build your professional profile, with recommendations, mentorship, and a certificate to show for it.
Expand your network, meet other young changemakers, and access resources to scale your impact.
Contribute meaningfully to achieving the SDGs in Nigeria, especially around youth rights, policy engagement, and systemic change.
Important Notes
The application is free; there is no fee to apply. (Nigeria Youth SDG)
All training sessions are virtual (via Zoom), so you don’t need to be physically present for classes.
The organizers reserve the right to close the form early if they receive too many applications.
