The UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 in the USA is an exceptional, fully funded opportunity for aspiring sustainability advocates worldwide. With comprehensive training, immersive in-person experience, and access to a powerful global network, this program is designed to empower emerging leaders committed to driving positive change in their communities, workplaces, and beyond.

Basic Information about the Program

The United People Global (UPG) is hosting the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program. Applications for the 2026 class open on September 1, 2025. The final deadline to submit applications is December 31, 2025. The program’s online component launches in March 2026, and an immersive, all-expenses-paid week takes place on Hurricane Island in July 2026. This initiative annually trains over 500 emerging leaders globally and selects top candidates for an unforgettable leadership journey in the USA.

University/Institution Details

Host Institution: United People Global (UPG)
Immersive Component Venue: Hurricane Island Center for Science and Leadership, USA
Number of Participants: 500+ for online training, with around 60 selected for the in-person excursion
Format: Comprehensive online training with an in-person leadership experience

Study Areas

The UPG Sustainability Leadership Program targets a broad array of study areas crucial for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including:

Sustainability and environmental stewardship
Project management for sustainable development
Leadership for positive community impact
Topics on health, education, jobs, gender equality, sustainable production and consumption, waste management, and more.

UPG Sustainability Leadership Program Benefits

The benefits for participants are extensive, making this program highly competitive and sought after:

Fully funded training, including all online and in-person costs
International round-trip flight to the USA for the week on Hurricane Island
Accommodation and meals during the US trip
Local transportation in the US
Certification as a UPG Sustainability Leader
Access to a global community of experts and fellow changemakers
Project support and access to seed funding and mentorship for community initiatives
Visa application support (letters of invitation).

Benefits Not Included

Visa processing fees (participants are responsible for paying the cost to obtain their U.S. visa)
Personal expenses during travel and in the U.S. not covered by the program (e.g., souvenirs, excess luggage fees)
Health/travel insurance (participants may need to provide proof of coverage).

Eligibility Criteria for the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program

The key criteria for application are:

Age: 18-35 years between March 1 and July 31, 2026
Nationality: Open to applicants of all countries
Education/Experience: No specific educational or professional prerequisites; applications are encouraged from diverse backgrounds and levels of experience
Language: Strong command of English (all program activities and materials are in English)
Motivation: Proven passion for sustainability and positive change
Commitment: Willingness to train others and lead a sustainable development project in one’s community after completion.

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare the following:

Recent photograph
Link to a personal video (maximum 2 minutes), introducing oneself and responding to a key application question
Detailed information about background, motivation, relevant leadership experience, and proposed sustainability project ideas
Proof of English proficiency (usually integrated into video submission; no formal language certificate required)
Nominations or endorsements (optional, for nominated candidates).

UPG Sustainability Leadership Program Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

Visit the official UPG Sustainability Leadership application portal.
Register for an applicant account on the platform.
Fill out the digital application form—the form covers personal details, background, motivation, leadership experience, and sustainability project ideas.
Record and upload a two-minute introductory video as per instructions.
Attach/upload all required documents and links.
Review and submit the completed application before the December 31, 2025, deadline.
Applicants who advance to the next stage are notified for further assessment (e.g., interviews or additional document requests).
Finalists selected for the in-person component are issued invitation letters for visa application.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start early to allow sufficient time for each application section and mandatory video.
Reflect deeply on your motivation and commitment to sustainability—UPG looks for genuine, dedicated changemakers.
Be specific and actionable in describing potential community impact projects.
Showcase leadership experience, even if informal (e.g., school clubs, local organizations).
Proofread all entries and ensure your video is clear, confident, and engaging. Dress professionally and speak naturally in English.
Research the United Nations SDGs and demonstrate familiarity with these global goals.
Double-check submission requirements before finalizing your application.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in the US)

For participants selected for the in-person week in the USA, all core expenses (meals, accommodation, local transport) are covered by UPG. However, for those interested in general monthly costs for international students in the USA:

Housing: $500–$1,200 (shared or dormitory style)
Meals: $200–$400
Transportation: $50–$150
Internet/Utilities: $60–$100
Personal expenses and entertainment: $150–$350
Estimated total: $960–$2,200/month.
Since the in-person segment is fully funded, personal out-of-pocket costs are minimal for program participants.

Why Choose This Program? (Minimum 5 Reasons)

Fully funded training and leadership development without financial barriers
Exclusive one-week immersive experience in the United States
Opportunity to join a powerful, diverse network of young sustainability leaders from around the world
Hands-on support for implementing real-world projects at home, with global exposure
Recognition and certification as a UPG Sustainability Leader, boosting career prospects
Access to mentorship, seed funding, and global sustainability resources
Direct pathway to meaningful citizenship action and global impact

Frequently Asked Questions about the Program

Is there an application fee?
No, there is no fee to apply for the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program.

What language is the program conducted in?
All instructions, materials, and training are provided in English. Fluency in English is required.

Are participants required to have advanced degrees or work experience?
No, candidates are welcome from all educational and professional backgrounds, regardless of experience level.

Is program participation open to all countries?
Yes, the program accepts applicants from any nationality.

What support is available for obtaining the US visa?
Selected candidates receive official invitation letters and guidance but must pay their own visa application fees.

How are participants selected?
Selection focuses on motivation, leadership capacity, evidence of past impact or potential, and clarity of proposed community projects.

How many people are chosen for the in-person experience?
About 60 out of 500+ get selected for the Hurricane Island trip in the USA.

Where can applicants submit their application?
Official applications are submitted via the United People Global website for sustainability leadership.

Official Link:

The UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 offers aspiring global sustainability advocates a chance to gain world-class training, network with other leaders, and make a powerful impact—without financial constraints

UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 in the USA