Apply for the UNICEF Global Young Ambassadors Programme 2026–2027 and represent youth voices at the national and global level. Open to passionate young leaders aged 16–24 who want to advocate for children’s rights, social justice, and inclusion.
Be the Voice of a Generation
The UNICEF Young Ambassadors Programme 2026–2027 is your opportunity to make a real difference in the world. Run by UNICEF Australia, this prestigious program empowers young leaders to represent the voices of children and youth, advocate for social justice, and help shape national and international policies that affect young people’s lives.
UNICEF, the world’s largest children’s organization, operates in over 190 countries, working to protect children’s rights, improve education, promote health, and respond to emergencies. Through this initiative, Young Ambassadors are trained, mentored, and equipped to influence decision-makers, amplify youth perspectives, and inspire positive change in their communities.
About the Programme
The UNICEF Young Ambassadors Programme is a 17-month leadership and advocacy experience running from July 2026 to December 2027.
As a Young Ambassador, you will:
- Engage with children and young people to understand their needs, opinions, and challenges.
- Advocate for youth voices at the national level by sharing insights with politicians, media, and key decision-makers.
- Collaborate with other Ambassadors and UNICEF Australia teams on national campaigns, reports, and awareness initiatives.
- Represent UNICEF at conferences, events, and media appearances as a youth spokesperson.
- Develop key skills in leadership, communication, and human rights advocacy through tailored training programs.
What You’ll Gain
Being a UNICEF Young Ambassador offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to:
- Learn from experts in leadership, media, and policy advocacy.
- Build confidence in public speaking and community engagement.
- Network with UNICEF staff, government representatives, and global youth leaders.
- Create meaningful projects that amplify youth perspectives.
- Join a lifelong network of young changemakers committed to children’s rights.
Eligibility Criteria Global Young Ambassadors
To apply for the 2026–2027 Young Ambassador Cohort, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be aged 16–24 years old as of July 2026.
- Reside in Australia for the duration of the program.
- Have a genuine passion for promoting children’s rights and social justice.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to learning, teamwork, and advocacy.
- Have lived experience or interest in youth issues such as:
- Digital wellbeing
- Climate change
- First Nations rights
- Child protection and inclusion
- Be able to obtain a Working with Children Check (WWCC) and National Police Record Check.
Key Attributes
UNICEF seeks motivated, empathetic, and creative young leaders who embody the organization’s values.
You are:
- A collaborative team player with strong communication skills.
- Adaptable, positive, and passionate about making a difference.
- Accountable and able to meet deadlines.
- Ready to represent children and young people with integrity and respect.
Programme Details
| Program Duration | July 2026 – December 2027 |
|---|---|
| Location | Remote (with in-person training in Sydney, Australia) |
| Commitment | 8–10 hours per month |
| Induction Week | July 2026 (Sydney, Australia) |
| Application Deadline | 4 October 2026 |
Note: The time commitment may increase during key advocacy campaigns or events.
UNICEF’s Core Values
Every UNICEF Young Ambassador is guided by the organization’s values:
- Child Focus: Always put children first.
- Accountability: Take responsibility for impact and outcomes.
- Integrity: Act ethically and transparently.
- Innovation: Embrace creativity and new ideas.
- Collaboration: Work together to achieve lasting change.
- Trust: Build and honor commitments to others.
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 cohort are closed, but Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for the July 2026 – December 2027 program.
Step 1: Register Your Interest
- Visit the official UNICEF Australia website and complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) Form.
- Submit your contact details only (no resume or cover letter required at this stage).
Step 2: Application Notification
- Once applications officially open, you will receive an email invitation with detailed instructions on how to apply.
Step 3: Submit Full Application
- Complete the online form and respond to questions about your motivation, leadership experience, and community involvement.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in interviews or group discussions.
APPLY NOW
CHECK THIS
Related Post
Gates Foundation Internship Program 2025 – Apply for Global Roles
UNICEF Climate Resilience Internship 2026 – Paid Global Opportunity for Graduates
World Bank Summer Internship Program 2025 – Fully Funded
UNDP Research Fellowship 2025 – Global Opportunities for Graduates
Safeguarding and Diversity Commitment
UNICEF Australia is committed to child safeguarding and diversity inclusion. All successful candidates must undergo:
- A National Police Check
- A Working with Children Check (WWCC)
UNICEF encourages applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds, including:
- Indigenous Australians and First Nations peoples
- LGBTQIA+ individuals
- Culturally and linguistically diverse communities
- Persons with disabilities
At UNICEF, everyone’s voice matters — diversity strengthens our mission to protect every child.
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| EOI Opens | April 2025 |
| EOI Closes | 4 October 2026 |
| Application Invitations Sent | Early 2026 |
| Selection Process | May – June 2026 |
| Induction Week | July 2026 (Sydney) |
| Program Duration | July 2026 – December 2027 |
Contact Information
For questions or further information, please contact:
UNICEF Australia – Child & Youth Engagement Team
📧 youthambassadors@unicef.org.au
🌐 Website: https://www.unicef.org.au
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Do I need to have prior experience in advocacy?
No. UNICEF welcomes applicants with a passion for social justice and children’s rights — prior advocacy experience is a plus but not required.
2. Is the program paid?
The Young Ambassador role is voluntary, but all official travel and program-related expenses (e.g., for Induction Week) are typically covered by UNICEF Australia.
3. Can international applicants apply?
No. Applicants must reside in Australia for the entire duration of the program.
4. How often will I work?
Ambassadors dedicate 8–10 hours per month, with occasional increased hours during major campaigns or events.
5. Is travel required?
Yes. Ambassadors are required to attend an in-person induction training in Sydney in July 2026.
Final Thoughts
The UNICEF Young Ambassador Programme 2026–2027 is an extraordinary platform for passionate young people to lead change, amplify youth voices, and influence national conversations about children’s rights and well-being.
If you’re between 16 and 24 and believe in creating a fairer, safer, and more inclusive world for every child, this is your opportunity to step up, speak out, and become a global voice for change.
👉 Register Your Interest Today: https://www.unicef.org.au
Keywords
UNICEF Young Ambassadors 2026, UNICEF Global Youth Ambassadors, UNICEF Australia Youth Program 2026, Youth Leadership Opportunities 2026, UNICEF Advocacy Program, Children’s Rights Ambassadors, Global Youth Leadership 2026, UNICEF Expression of Interest 2026, Youth Policy and Advocacy Internship, Volunteer Leadership UNICEF, UNICEF Australia Careers 2026
