The GOAL Global NextGen Youth Programme provides a unique opportunity for young leaders to deepen their understanding of global justice issues and collaborate with peers across different countries. Young people around the world are increasingly stepping up to address global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and fragile health systems. The programme brings together motivated participants from multiple regions to explore global citizenship, develop leadership skills, and contribute to awareness campaigns that support humanitarian work. What Is the GOAL NextGen Youth Programme? The NextGen Youth Programme is an international learning initiative created by GOAL Global, an Irish humanitarian organization that has been delivering emergency response and development programmes for over four decades. The programme aims to help young people better understand global crises, particularly those linked to climate change and health systems, while encouraging them to become active participants in creating solutions. Participants work together in an interactive learning environment where they examine global issues, share perspectives from their communities, and develop creative materials that contribute to GOAL’s public engagement initiatives. Programme Structure and Schedule The 2025 NextGen Youth Programme consists of 10 sessions, primarily delivered online to ensure participation from a global cohort. While most sessions are virtual, two in-person sessions will be held for participants based in Ireland. Key Programme Dates 23 May: In-person session for Irish participants (11:00 – 16:00) 26 May: Online session for international participants (15:00 – 17:00 Irish time) 4 June: Online session (15:00 – 17:00) 11 June: Online session (15:00 – 17:00) 20–21 June: In-person retreat for Irish participants (details to be confirmed) 25 June: Online session (15:00 – 17:00) 2 July: Online session (15:00 – 17:00) 9 July: Online session (15:00 – 17:00) 16 July: Online session (15:00 – 17:00) To accommodate participants across different time zones, most sessions take place at 3:00 PM Irish Time, which corresponds to: 8:00 AM in Honduras 10:00 AM in Colombia 2:00 PM in Sierra Leone 4:00 PM in Zimbabwe 5:00 PM in Ethiopia and Uganda Skills and Knowledge Participants Will Gain Over the course of the programme, participants will collaborate with peers from around the world while developing valuable personal and professional skills. These include: Critical thinking and global issue analysis Intercultural communication Project management and teamwork Organizing and implementing public awareness campaigns Through these activities, participants are encouraged to reflect on their own role in addressing local and global challenges while learning to engage with others in a spirit of empathy, inclusivity, and collaboration. The programme also offers participants the opportunity to interact with staff from GOAL Global, gaining insight into humanitarian and development work on the ground. Who Can Apply? The programme is open to young people who are passionate about global justice and community impact. To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements: Be between 18 and 25 years old Be fluent in English Be a resident of Ireland, Ethiopia, Honduras, Iraq, Sierra Leone, Syria, Turkey, Uganda, Colombia, or Zimbabwe Be available for the full programme schedule between May and July Be willing to participate in teamwork activities between sessions Applicants should also demonstrate a basic understanding of global issues and show initiative in creating positive change through activities such as volunteering, community engagement, or creative projects. Interest in artistic and creative forms of expression—such as drama, art, music, journalism, or creative writing—is also encouraged. Application Requirements To apply for the NextGen Youth Programme, candidates must submit the following: Option 1: Written Application Applicants can submit: A CV or portfolio outlining their education and relevant experiences A 500-word cover letter addressing: Why they are applying for the programme Why they believe they are a strong candidate The skills and experiences they will contribute What they hope to gain from the programme Option 2: Video Application Applicants may also submit: A two-minute video explaining their motivation, strengths, and goals for joining the programme A CV or portfolio (mandatory even with video submissions) Video submissions must be sent separately via email with the applicant’s full name and country of participation included in the subject line. Applications that do not follow the specified format will not be considered. Application Deadline and Selection Applications for the programme close on 3 April 2025. Successful applicants will be notified by 2 May 2025. Candidates who are not selected are encouraged to stay connected with GOAL and apply again in future cycles. Stipend and Participation Support To ensure accessibility and support participation from diverse backgrounds, all selected participants will receive a €400 stipend for the duration of the programme. This stipend is intended to help cover: Internet and data costs Travel expenses related to programme activities GOAL’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion GOAL Global is committed to promoting inclusive participation in Global Citizenship Education. The programme welcomes applicants from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, ethnic groups, and identities, including individuals with disabilities. By creating a diverse and collaborative learning environment, the NextGen Youth Programme aims to empower the next generation of leaders to address global challenges with creativity, empathy, and resilience. APPLY NOW For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.