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5 Ways UNICEF USA Empowers Youth Leaders to Drive Global Change

Youth leadership UNICEF USA abstract illustration with globe, arrows, plant, megaphone icons and flowing lines, dramatic light and shadows.

Table of Contents

  1. Start or Join a UNICEF Club
  2. Apply for the Youth Representative Program
  3. Serve on the National Youth Council
  4. Host a Fundraiser or Awareness Event
  5. Create Real-World Impact on Global Child Rights

UNICEF USA empowers young people to lead global change through hands-on advocacy, organizing, and leadership programs. Whether you’re in high school or college, there are real ways to develop your skills while making a tangible impact on children’s rights around the world.

UNICEF youth leadership infographic, five pathways with icons for clubs, programs, council, events, and global impact, bold colors, radiant light.

1. Start or Join a UNICEF Club

UNICEF Clubs are student-led organizations found in high schools and universities across the United States.

  • These clubs focus on fundraising, awareness-building, and advocacy in support of UNICEF’s work around the globe.
  • Students organize events, deliver presentations, and lead campaigns focused on issues like child survival, education, and climate justice.
  • UNICEF USA offers extensive resources, including event toolkits, starter guides, and marketing materials to support these clubs.

2. Apply for the Youth Representative Program

This national program connects motivated students with UNICEF USA staff and initiatives.

  • Youth Representatives act as liaisons between their communities and UNICEF USA.
  • They participate in webinars, briefings, and national conversations around global child welfare.
  • The program is designed for students who want to take their leadership beyond their local school or club.

3. Serve on the National Youth Council

The National Youth Council (NYC) is UNICEF USA’s top student leadership body.

  • Council members serve one-year terms and help guide national youth engagement strategies.
  • They represent UNICEF USA at public events, engage in high-level planning meetings, and work with policymakers and nonprofit leaders.
  • Past NYC members have spoken on Capitol Hill and contributed to national advocacy campaigns.

4. Host a Fundraiser or Awareness Event

UNICEF USA provides comprehensive resources to help youth leaders organize impactful fundraisers and events.

  • The Fundraising and Events Guide offers step-by-step instructions for planning and executing successful events.
  • It includes ideas for both virtual and in-person events, such as bake sales, benefit concerts, and panel discussions.
  • The guide also provides tips on budgeting, promoting your event, and submitting donations.

5. Create Real-World Impact on Global Child Rights

Youth leadership at UNICEF USA results in measurable, global impact.

  • In 2023 alone, student-led UNICEF Clubs raised more than $800,000 to support humanitarian efforts.
  • Clubs also engage in advocacy actions like petition drives and awareness campaigns around issues such as child trafficking and refugee rights.
  • These activities allow students to become effective changemakers—building resumes while changing lives.

UNICEF USA offers multiple ways for youth to lead, organize, and create global impact—starting at the school level and expanding to national representation. Whether you’re starting a club or applying to the National Youth Council, each opportunity builds valuable skills while contributing to a vital cause.

Ready to take action for children’s rights? Start a UNICEF Club, apply for youth leadership roles, or join national advocacy efforts. Begin your journey.

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