United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs Leaders 4 Tomorrow workshop for young people Leaders4Tomorrow
Are you passionate about peacebuilding, international security, and creating positive change in your community? The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series is a unique global programme that empowers young people to become advocates for disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control while developing leadership skills to address today’s most pressing global challenges. The initiative is part of UNODA’s #Youth4Disarmament programme, which seeks to engage, educate, and empower the next generation of peace leaders.
What is the Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series?
The Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series is an international training programme that brings together young leaders from around the world to explore the links between disarmament, international peace and security, sustainable development, gender equality, emerging technologies, and environmental issues. Participants take part in interactive workshops led by UNODA experts, youth leaders, and specialists in the field of international security.
The programme is designed not only to build participants’ knowledge but also to help them develop innovative projects that promote peace and disarmament within their own communities.
Programme Objectives
Through the workshop series, participants will:
- Learn about disarmament, non-proliferation, and arms control.
- Explore how these issues are connected to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Build leadership, communication, and advocacy skills.
- Collaborate with young leaders from different countries and cultural backgrounds.
- Design practical projects that educate and engage other young people on peace and security issues.
What Participants Can Expect
The programme includes a series of virtual workshops featuring discussions, interactive exercises, and expert presentations. Participants work in teams to develop youth-led initiatives that promote awareness of disarmament and peaceful conflict resolution.
In previous editions, participants created a wide range of innovative projects, including educational campaigns, documentaries, research initiatives, digital learning materials, podcasts, and community engagement activities designed to make disarmament topics more accessible to young people.
Selected participants have also had the opportunity to present their projects during side events at the United Nations General Assembly First Committee, giving them valuable exposure to policymakers, diplomats, and international experts.
Who Can Apply?
Previous Leaders4Tomorrow calls have invited applications from young people aged 18 to 29 from around the world who demonstrate an interest in peacebuilding, international affairs, education, youth engagement, or related fields. The programme welcomes applicants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, recognising that meaningful contributions to peace can come from many disciplines.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series offers numerous benefits, including:
- Training from United Nations experts and experienced practitioners.
- International networking opportunities with young leaders from around the world.
- Enhanced leadership, advocacy, and project management skills.
- Experience developing and presenting real-world initiatives.
- The opportunity to contribute to global conversations on peace, security, and sustainable development.
A Truly Global Initiative
The programme has attracted significant international interest. One previous edition received more than 400 applications from 85 countries, with only 25 young leaders selected to participate. This highlights both the competitiveness and prestige of the initiative.
Final Thoughts
The United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series is an outstanding opportunity for young people who want to make a meaningful contribution to global peace and security. By combining expert-led learning, international collaboration, and youth-led action, the programme equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to become effective advocates for a safer and more peaceful world.
If you are passionate about international affairs, sustainable development, diplomacy, or youth leadership, keep an eye on future #Youth4Disarmament calls for applications. Participating in the Leaders4Tomorrow Workshop Series could be the first step towards becoming a global leader for peace.
