The UPG Sustainability Leadership Program aims to empower individuals globally to become effective sustainability leaders. UPG Sustainability Leadership is a movement that mobilizes individuals and organizations to support positive citizen leadership on sustainability. UPG leadership program in the USA is the world’s largest training program for young adults. The fully-funded leadership program motivates individuals and organizations to work on at least one project of their own desire to bring positive change in this world.
This movement is led by UPG Sustainability Leaders and each year UPG trains 500+ UPG Sustainability Leaders from all world regions to join the existing family of outstanding leaders who are taking action within their communities to demonstrate the power of citizens to create a more sustainable world. It offers free online training to 500 participants, with 60 of them selected for an immersive one-week experience in the USA.
- Application Deadline: December 31, 2024
- Program Dates: March 17 – May 16, 2025
University/Institutions
- Organizer: United People Global (UPG)
- Location of Immersion Week: Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership, USA
- Program Duration: 9 weeks (online training + 1-week in-person experience for selected participants)
Study Areas
The program covers a broad range of sustainability topics, aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including environmental conservation, education, health, gender equality, and sustainable production.
- Climate Action: Environmental sustainability and reducing carbon footprints
- Education & Community Impact: Encouraging learning and local actions
- Health & Well-being: Promoting sustainable health practices
- Sustainable Consumption & Production: Responsible resource usage
- Oceans & Biodiversity Conservation: Safeguarding natural ecosystems
Leadership Program Benefits
- Fully funded online training
- Certification as a UPG Sustainability Leader
- One-week immersive trip for 60 selected participants, covering:
- Round-trip international flights
- Accommodation
- Meals and training materials
- Subsistence allowance
- Local transportation covered
- 60 Participants from among 500 participants will be selected for this fully-funded program in the USA.
- The participants will receive a certificate upon completion of the program.
- The participants will become lifetime members of the “Community of Champions”.
Benefits Not Included
- Participants must cover their visa-related expenses. UPG provides visa support letters if needed.
Leadership Eligibilities
- Age Range: 18-35 years (between March 1 and July 31, 2025)
- Nationality: Open to all nationalities
- Language: Proficiency in English is mandatory
- For people who are passionate about a specific area (e.g. jobs, education, or oceans), there is no need to be passionate in all areas.
- People who have already taken action related to sustainability AND people who have NEVER taken action
- People of different levels of education
- People who have a strong motivation to be UPG Sustainability Leaders
- People who are willing and able to take action on sustainability
- People who believe in UPG’s mission to empower people to make the world a better place through positive action.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Recent photograph: To identify the candidate.
- Motivational Video: A 2-minute video where you introduce yourself or explain your motivation to join the program. This video must be shared via a link in the application form.
Application Process
- Online Application through the UPG portal
- Selection Criteria: Diversity, motivation, skills, and potential impact
- Selection announcement: February 14, 2025
Tips for Successful Application
- Emphasize your motivation and interest in sustainability.
- Provide a clear idea of how you intend to create an impact through the program.
- Ensure that your video reflects confidence and proficiency in English.
Why Choose This Program?
This leadership program offers a rare opportunity to gain hands-on sustainability experience while connecting with like-minded individuals and professionals from across the globe. It focuses not only on personal development but also on community impact.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there an application fee?
- No, applying is completely free.
- Are participants required to have prior sustainability experience?
- No, individuals with or without experience are welcome to apply.
- Do I need to be a student to apply?
- No, people from various backgrounds can participate.
- Will visa support be provided?
- Yes, UPG will provide visa support letters if required.
- How will participants be selected?
- Selection is based on motivation, profile diversity, and potential for impact.
Official Link
For further details and to apply: UPG Official Website