Opening doors
LAYCS Scholarship
Over the course of a year, scholars build the knowledge, confidence and networks needed to participate in UN climate negotiations while remaining rooted in their communities.
How it works
What the Scholarship offers
The programme combines technical learning with care, language justice and political accompaniment because meaningful participation requires much more than attending a conference.
Capacity Building
A year-long learning journey covering the UNFCCC process, climate negotiations, advocacy, anti-racism and thematic policy areas such as Adaptation and Climate Finance, alongside direct exchanges with negotiators and experts.
Language Justice
Professional interpretation throughout the programme, including during the conferences. English classes and multilingual support remove language as a barrier to participation and leadership.
Community Action
Microgrants support scholars in translating international learning into locally led initiatives, ensuring climate advocacy remains connected to the territories and communities they represent.
Fully Funded Participation
LAYCS covers all costs associated with participation in the UNFCCC Subsidiary Bodies (SBs) and the Conference of the Parties (COP). Scholars receive comprehensive preparation before each conference and continuous accompaniment throughout the negotiation process, ensuring they can fully engage in policy discussions, constituency work and strategic meetings.
Care & Wellbeing
Wellbeing is embedded throughout the programme through emotional check-ins, psychological support when needed, childcare support for scholars that are parents and a discrimination awareness protocol that prioritises safety and dignity.
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.