Kiwi teens have only a few days left to meet the application deadline for the new role of UNICEF Youth Ambassador. Applications close at noon, Monday 19 July.

The UN Children’s Fund is running a nationwide selection process for candidates who can be a voice for issues facing young people both in New Zealand and overseas.

Successful candidates will be announced just ahead of the International Day of Youth on 12 August, which also marks the start of the UN International Year of Youth. Broadly, the Year aims to encourage dialogue and understanding across generations and promote the ideals of peace, respect for human rights and freedoms, and solidarity.

Applicants for the UNICEF Youth Ambassador programme need to be aged between 16-17 years and will complete an extensive application process. Along with having the chance to implement their own advocacy ideas, the youth ambassadors will engage in public activities to support UNICEF’s work on behalf of children and young people. This could include writing a regular blog, researching youth opinions, and public speaking.

Learn more about the UNICEF Youth Ambassador programme including how to apply.