By Johnson Blackson
United People Global (UPG), a Geneva-based non-profit, is continuing its mission to empower young changemakers through the UPG Sustainability Leadership Programme, widely regarded as the world’s largest sustainability training for young adults.
The programme offers free, comprehensive training in sustainability leadership and civic action, equipping young people with the skills and knowledge to implement change within their communities.
Since its inception in 2019, over 1,030 individuals from more than 100 countries have completed the nine-week online training, emerging as certified UPG Sustainability Leaders, the organization said.
“These young leaders are now actively driving local projects focused on climate action, community development, education, and environmental justice,” UPG said in a statement on Sunday by Precious Chinweani, Sustainability Leader at the organisation and an advocate for Positive Change.
So far, she revealed that the initiative has led to the training of over 86,000 citizens across all global regions on how to take positive, actionable steps toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
According to her, since the applications for the 2025 cohort opened, more than 13,600 applicants already expressed interest in joining the programme.
“Each year, a select number of trainees are invited to a fully funded, in-person leadership immersion at Hurricane Island, USA.
“The experience is designed to build deeper connections, enhance practical skills, and reinforce the impact of their sustainability projects back home,” Chinweani said.
She said the programme is supported by UPG’s global network of partners, with notable contributions from philanthropist and author Rosamund Zander.
UPG emphasises inclusive, non-political, and non-religious citizen engagement and believes everyone has the power and responsibility to make the world a better place, the statement added.
