Organization: United Nations Environment Programme
Program Name: Young Champions of the Earth
Category: Award programme
Eligibility: 18 to 30 years old
Coverage: Global
Grant: US$10,000
Young Champions of the Earth is presented by the United Nations Environment Programme as its top award for environmental action by young people. UNEP says the initiative recognizes changemakers from different parts of the world and is awarded each year to a small number of young entrepreneurs working on ideas that help protect and restore the environment.
Global Selection
The application page makes clear that Young Champions of the Earth is run on a global basis. UNEP states that winners are selected globally.
Support Available
According to UNEP, each winner has the opportunity to grow their skills and business, including receiving US$10,000. The programme also provides mentorship, workshops, and access to a worldwide community of environmental experts.
UNEP also highlights networking and visibility as part of the award. Winners may build their VIP network at the award ceremony and other official events, while also gaining publicity and global recognition through interviews, speaking engagements, and international media coverage.
Another element named on the application page is the chance to compete in a pitch competition for the Planet A grant of up to US$100,000.
Media and Storytelling Requirement
UNEP says selected Young Champions are required to document their journeys through self-shot videos and short articles on the website for up to one year. To support this, each winner receives a smartphone multimedia production kit as well as communications training and mentorship.
Who Can Apply
The stated eligibility is for people who have been working on a big idea to improve the environment for at least six months and who will be between 18 and 30 years old by the end of the calendar year.
Programme Focus
UNEP explains that the award celebrates outstanding environmental action by young people. It says the programme honours inspiring changemakers and supports young entrepreneurs whose ideas contribute to safeguarding the future.
Supporting Partner
The website notes that the programme is in partnership with and supported by Planet A. UNEP describes Planet A as a storytelling platform that drives environmental awareness and action through @TheOfficialPlanetA YouTube.
