Young changemakers are advancing climate education in ways that will shape the future for generations
Climate education is no longer optional; it’s essential infrastructure for a sustainable future. While countries continue making new climate education commitments, meaningful implementation remains the real challenge.
That’s why this fellowship, and the young changemakers behind it, matters so deeply. These inspiring leaders are turning hope into action and bringing real climate solutions to life in communities around the world.
Meet the climate education leaders of today and tomorrow!
UNICEF Innocenti has selected 12 young leaders from across the globe who are advancing climate education in their schools, communities, and countries. From May 2026 through October 2027, the new UNICEF Innocenti Youth Fellows will:
Document climate education solutions
Shape policy conversations
Co-create research and storytelling
Help transform education systems for the future
The future of climate action is youth-led — and the future starts now.
The fellowship is part of a broader movement to position climate education as both a child’s right and a catalyst for systemic transformation.
As Founder of The ChariTree Foundation and Co Founder of The FirstLine Foundation, Andrea Koehle Jones also serves as an advisor to the UNICEF Leading Minds Fellowship on Climate Education.
Meet the fellows + learn more about the fellowship: https://www.unicef.org/innocenti/youth-fellowships
The multi year initiative initiative aims to reframe climate education as both a child’s right and a lever for transformative change by empowering young leaders, strengthening the broader ecosystem through youth led research and resources, and advancing collaborative advocacy in global forums, including the Climate COPs.
“Climate education is one of the most powerful tools we have to prepare young people for the realities of a changing world,” said Andrea Koehle Jones. “These young leaders are not waiting for change. They are already creating it by helping communities reimagine education, resilience, and climate action from the ground up.”
Together, these efforts reflect a powerful truth: the future of climate action is youth led, and that future is already taking shape.
Learn more about the fellowship and meet the fellows here:
UNICEF Innocenti Youth Fellowships