The Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens (BKMC) announces the opening of applications for the 2025 cohort of the Youth AgriChampions program.
This initiative, now in its fourth edition, focuses on a Peer2Peer workshop series that addresses climate adaptation within agriculture.
The program invites youth leaders from the smallholder farming and agricultural entrepreneurship sectors in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Zambia to share their insights and experiences regarding climate change adaptation in their agricultural practices.
Organization Background
The BKMC is dedicated to fostering global citizenship and empowering communities to tackle pressing global challenges.
Under the leadership of Ban Ki-moon, the eighth Secretary-General of the United Nations, the BKMC seeks to elevate the voices of young activists and innovators who strive for sustainable solutions in agriculture and environmental stewardship.
Why Apply?
Participating in the Youth AgriChampions program offers a unique platform for young agricultural leaders to collaborate, advocate, and influence policy on climate adaptation.
Participants will work collectively to create a youth demand paper that reflects the realities faced by smallholder farmers, which will be elevated by Ban Ki-moon in his global advocacy efforts.
Prior cohorts have gained invaluable experiences, joining the BKMC delegation at prominent events like the African Food System Forum in Rwanda and COP29 in Azerbaijan, where they launched the Youth AgriChampions Demand Paper.
This initiative not only amplifies participants’ voices but also enhances their visibility on international platforms advocating for smallholder farmers.
Benefits of Participation
Participants in the Youth AgriChampions workshop series will benefit from:
- Expert Guidance: Interaction with thought leaders and experts in agricultural adaptation who will offer insights and inspiration during workshops.
- Certification: Upon successful completion of the series, participants will receive a certificate signed by Ban Ki-moon, symbolizing their commitment and achievement.
- Networking Opportunities: Join the growing BKMC Youth AgriChampions Alumni Network, connecting with like-minded individuals who share a commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability.
- Showcasing Best Practices: The five most exemplary practices from participants regarding climate adaptation will receive recognition on the Ban Ki-moon Centre’s platforms, enhancing participants’ profiles as leaders in their field.
Application Details
The application window for the 2025 cohort opened on March 11 and closes on March 24, 2025, at 23:59 CET. The selection criteria include:
- Candidates should be smallholder farmers, agricultural entrepreneurs, or employed youth in the agricultural sector, interested in advocating for smallholder farmers.
- Applicants must be aged 18-35 years and citizens of Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, or Zambia.
- Experience in climate adaptation projects or related expertise is required.
- A strong interest in agriculture, climate change, and food systems is essential.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Demonstrate Passion: Clearly express your dedicated interest in agriculture and climate adaptation through your application. Show how your background and experiences align with the goals of the program.
- Highlight Relevant Experience: Provide specific examples of your work relating to climate adaptation or agricultural innovation. This can include projects you’ve been involved with or challenges you’ve faced as a smallholder farmer.
- Engage with the Community: Describe your efforts to collaborate with other youth or organizations working on similar issues. Emphasizing your grassroots connections can strengthen your application.
- Be Authentic: Share your personal journey and motivations. Authentic stories resonate with selection committees and convey your commitment to the cause.
- Prepare for Workshops: Familiarize yourself with the workshop goals and anticipated outcomes. This will enable you to articulate how your participation will contribute to the overall success of the initiative.
The workshop series will be conducted online, and full participation in all three sessions and the closing ceremony is mandatory for all selected applicants. The tentative dates for the workshops are as follows:
- Workshop 1: May 14, 2025, 16:30 – 18:30 CEST
- Workshop 2: May 21, 2025, 16:30 – 18:30 CEST
- Workshop 3: May 28, 2025, 16:30 – 18:30 CEST
- Closing Ceremony: July 10, 2025, 16:30 – 18:30 CEST
For more information and to apply, please visit Youth AgriChampions Application Page. This is a chance to become a part of a transformative initiative that champions the voices and needs of young agricultural leaders in adapting to climate change.
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