LAYCS Fellowship

Building long-term leadership. The Fellowship is the next step in the LAYCS journey. With its first cohort in 2026, it responds to a simple reality: access is only the beginning. Many alumni continue engaging in climate negotiations, but without the support needed to sustain their leadership over time. The Fellowship accompanies a small group of alumni as they deepen their expertise, build professional careers in climate policy and become recognised voices within international decision-making spaces.

What the Fellowship offers

Long-term Political Engagement

Year-round participation in UNFCCC processes, technical meetings and policy networks, enabling fellows to build expertise through continuous engagement rather than occasional attendance.

Advanced Learning

Direct exchange with negotiators, policy experts and international networks, helping fellows deepen thematic expertise and strengthen their contribution to negotiations.

Financial Support

A monthly stipend, international travel and logistical support recognise climate policy engagement as skilled work and create the stability needed for sustained participation.

Mentorship & Accompaniment

Monthly strategic check-ins, tailored mentorship and ongoing guidance help fellows grow into independent policy leaders while remaining connected to the LAYCS community.

Community Leadership

Microgrants support fellows to strengthen or expand initiatives in their territories, ensuring international advocacy remains accountable to local realities.

Language support, English classes, wellbeing and childcare continue to remove barriers to long-term participation.