Building long-term leadership
LAYCS Fellowship
The Fellowship is the next step in the LAYCS journey. With its first cohort in 2026, it responds to a simple reality: access is only the beginning.
How it works
What the Fellowship offers
Many alumni continue engaging in climate negotiations, but without the support needed to sustain their leadership over time. The Fellowship accompanies a small group of alumni as they deepen their expertise, build professional careers in climate policy and become recognised voices within international decision-making spaces.
Long-term Political Engagement
Year-round participation in UNFCCC processes, technical meetings and policy networks, enabling fellows to build expertise through continuous engagement rather than occasional attendance.
Advanced Learning
Direct exchange with negotiators, policy experts and international networks, helping fellows deepen thematic expertise and strengthen their contribution to negotiations.
Financial Support
A monthly stipend, international travel and logistical support recognise climate policy engagement as skilled work and create the stability needed for sustained participation.
Mentorship & Accompaniment
Monthly strategic check-ins, tailored mentorship and ongoing guidance help fellows grow into independent policy leaders while remaining connected to the LAYCS community.
Community Leadership
Microgrants support fellows to strengthen or expand initiatives in their territories, ensuring international advocacy remains accountable to local realities. Language support, English classes, wellbeing and childcare continue to remove barriers to long-term participation.
Impact report
Learn more about our global impact
Discover how LAYCS delegates are actively shaping local policies and national delegations.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join a program?
Applications for the LAYCS Scholarship open once a year and are announced on our social media channels and through partner networks. Keep an eye on our Instagram and LinkedIn, or write to info@laycs.org to be notified when the next call opens.
What is the difference between the Scholarship and the Fellowship?
The Scholarship is a one-year program that prepares scholars to participate in UN climate negotiations for the first time, with capacity building, fully funded participation and language justice support. The Fellowship, launched in 2026, is the next step: it accompanies a small group of alumni as they deepen their expertise and build long-term careers in climate policy.
Who can apply?
LAYCS supports young Black, Indigenous and People of Colour leaders from across Latin America who are engaged in climate action in their communities. Each call for applications details the specific criteria for that cohort.
Can I share and use the briefings?
Yes. We publish our policy briefings to make negotiation spaces more accessible to the wider youth movement. You are welcome to read, download and share them — and to reach out via info@laycs.org if you have questions or feedback.