Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to make a meaningful difference in your community? The UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 is a fully funded exchange opportunity in the United States designed to empower young leaders who are committed to solving global sustainability challenges.
Every year, the United People Global (UPG) brings together individuals from around the world who are already taking positive action in their local communities. Through this program, participants gain advanced leadership training, international exposure, and practical skills to strengthen their impact.
The 2026 edition offers an exciting opportunity for 500 young changemakers to undergo comprehensive online training, with top performers earning a fully funded one-week trip to Hurricane Island, USA in July 2026.
During the program, participants will collaborate with peers from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, receive mentorship, and work on initiatives that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This global exchange not only enhances individual leadership capacity but also builds a strong international network of youth leaders who are committed to driving sustainable change.
This program covers all expenses, including flights, accommodation, meals, and local transport. If you are between 18 and 35 years old, motivated, and ready to take your sustainability efforts to the next level, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
Interested candidates can apply for the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 before the deadline December 31, 2025.
In this article, we have covered every possible detail of this ledaership program.

About the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program
The United People Global (UPG) initiative is a global movement that encourages citizens to take positive action in their communities. The program focuses on solving sustainability issues by empowering future leaders with knowledge, skills, and networks.
In 2026, 500 participants will be selected for comprehensive online training. Upon completion, they will be certified as UPG Sustainability Leaders. From this group, outstanding participants will be chosen for the fully funded trip to the United States.
Program Details
Program Name | UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 |
Type | Exchange Program |
Host Country | United States |
Location | Hurricane Island |
Travel Dates | July 2026 |
Funding | Fully Funded |
Application FEE | 5 CHF |
Deadline | December 31, 2025 |
Organizer | United People Global (UPG) |
Number of Participants | 500 (online training), selected group for U.S. trip |
Eligibility (Age) | 18–35 years |
Eligibility (Nationality) | Open to all nationalities |
Application Process | Online application via official website |
Financial Benefits
The UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026 is a fully funded opportunity. Selected participants will receive:
- Free accommodation
- Subsistence support (meals and daily needs)
- Local transportation within the U.S.
- International round-trip airfare from the participant’s hometown to the USA
This ensures that participants can focus fully on learning and collaboration without financial concerns.
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Key Features of the Program

- Global Focus: A movement designed to address sustainability issues and inspire positive community action.
- Training and Certification: 500 participants will join an online training program and become certified as UPG Sustainability Leaders.
- Fully Funded U.S. Trip: Selected leaders will attend a one-week immersive exchange in the USA.
- Diverse Participation: The program welcomes individuals from all nationalities and backgrounds, creating an inclusive global community.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years of age.
- Candidates from all nationalities are eligible to apply.
- Applicants must be motivated, creative thinkers, and committed to driving positive change.
- Both male and female candidates are encouraged to apply.
- Applicants must have a strong command of the English language.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following as part of their online application:
- A recent picture
- A video (maximum 2 minutes) where the applicant introduces themselves or answers the given question to demonstrate English proficiency
- The video should be uploaded as a link within the application
Application Requirements and Process
To apply for the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026, candidates need to complete an online application and provide the following:
- A recent personal photograph.
- A short video (no longer than two minutes) where the applicant introduces themselves or answers the specific prompt given in the form. This video helps demonstrate communication skills in English and showcases the applicant’s motivation.
- A non-refundable application fee of CHF 5. This fee supports the administrative process, while the training itself remains free of charge.
- Applications should emphasize originality and sincerity. Applicants are advised not to rely heavily on AI tools or perfect grammar; the selection committee focuses more on genuine ideas, motivation, and the potential for community impact.
A strong application highlights the candidate’s enthusiasm for sustainability, outlines an idea or project with meaningful impact, and clearly shows alignment with UPG’s mission of empowering citizen leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the deadline for the UPG Sustainability Leadership Program 2026?
The application deadline is December 31, 2025.
2. Who can apply for this program?
Anyone aged 18–35 years, from any nationality, with strong English communication skills can apply.
3. How many participants will be selected?
A total of 500 participants will be chosen for the online training. From these, selected leaders will be invited for the fully funded U.S. trip.
4. Do I need to pay for travel or accommodation?
No, the program is fully funded. It covers international flights, accommodation, meals, and local transportation in the USA.
5. What is the location of the program in the USA?
The one-week training trip will take place on Hurricane Island, USA.