Plan International Youth Leadership Programme 2027: Training Opportunity for Young Changemakers
Overview
The Plan International USA Youth Leadership Academy runs a year-long leadership programme for young people interested in gender equality, youth advocacy, global issues and social change. Participants combine training and mentorship with a practical project of their own, so that they apply leadership skills rather than only study them. The 2027 programme places particular focus on gender equity, though participants may work on issues that matter to their own communities.
What you get
The year begins with virtual orientation sessions, followed by a residential intensive in Washington, D.C. There participants meet other young leaders, Plan staff and members of the Youth Advisory Board while shaping their Leadership Project. Each participant identifies a local problem, sets a mission, researches stakeholders and potential partners, develops an idea and pitches it.
After the intensive, participants keep developing their projects through the programme year with support from an assigned Youth Advisory Board mentor and skill-building webinars. They can access seed funding to launch their project, connect with Plan's youth network and partners, and present the finished project at a Youth Leadership Academy symposium. The amount of seed funding is not specified.
Who can apply
Applicants should be students in Grades 8 to 11 who live in the United States. The programme welcomes students interested in gender equality, global issues, youth-led advocacy, leadership, social impact and community change. Previous professional experience is not required.
How to apply
Applications go through the Plan International USA Youth Leadership Academy application process. Applicants should explain their leadership and advocacy interests and provide the information requested. Plan International USA reports that the academy has trained 600 young people, has operated for more than 10 years and presented more than 13 workshops in 2025.