ABOUT SDSN
The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world.
ABOUT SDSN YOUTH
SDSN Youth is one of the initiatives of SDSN. It was launched in 2015 with a mission to empower youth globally to create sustainable development solutions. Since then, SDSN Youth is committed to supporting the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development Data, focusing on outreach of youth communities for raising awareness, capacity building of youth for sustainable development, and advocacy and collaboration.
ABOUT THE YOUTH NETWORKS PROGRAM
The SDSN Youth, in coordination with the SDSN Networks, mobilizes young leaders worldwide to leverage their talents to help promote practical solutions to sustainable development challenges and realize the SDGs and the Paris Agreement. With a global reach, the SDSN Youth network comprises multiple member institutions, primarily youth-led organizations, coordinated by our National and Regional Networks.
The SDSN Youth's national and regional networks focus on localizing sustainable solutions for youth. The youth networks translate their expertise into action by: (1) Strengthening youth capacity through skills development and knowledge; (2) Collaborating with stakeholders to mobilize youth for sustainable development; and (3) Sparking and launching solution initiatives.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
Each region’s NC is being supported by a Regional Focal Point. All NCs report to their respective RFP. Responsibilities of each RFPs is to support the Network Coordinators by ensuring the implementation and alignment of their work with the SDGs, foster growth and scaling of their networks, promote regional cooperation, and drive new initiatives on localizing SDGs in their region.
Linking to the global structure, the RFP reports on their region’s activity and its metrics by regularly attending calls with Global Networks Management.
Please note: As a virtual network, it is IMPORTANT for the Project Officer to communicate effectively with their Project Lead and report back consistently. In, that operates across several time zones, reporting and communicating proactively is crucial.
This position is meant to start in April 2026.
Responsibilities
The primary tasks and responsibilities of Regional Focal Points include:
- Adhere to the code of conduct of SDSN Youth and the SDGs guiding principles;
- Act as the focal point between the national/regional networks and SDSN Youth;
- Support the work of the NCs and provide guidance as needed on topics like project management, communications, useful tools and similar;
- Ensure meaningful engagement from the NCs;
- Ensure the monitoring and reporting of the activities and initiatives occurring in the youth networks;
- Publicize SDSN Youth activities amongst relevant stakeholders;
- Organize regular calls with the NCs (monthly is the suggested recurrence);
- Attend the monthly call with the Networks Team, quarterly call with the Global Coordinators, and any other relevant calls with any other team members;
- Answer emails in a timely manner and keep regular communication with the Networks Team;
- Prepare and submit a work plan & self-evaluation form in a timely manner;
- Look for regional opportunities for the networks;
- Support in the recruitment of new NCs as needed.
Qualifications
- Based in the APAC continent for at least 12 months after the application date
- Previous connections with member organizations/institutions and/or SDSN (Youth) Networks are a plus
- Aged between 18 - 30 in order to be eligible for this role
- Possess an excellent command of the English language, including writing, speaking and listening
- Has previous experience in student/youth leadership
- Has a great interest in sustainable development, and is passionate about the mission of SDSN, including the pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement on climate change
- Demonstrates the time and resources to commit to this role
- Has had some form of either professional or volunteer work experience, particularly with team management, project coordination, event management or stakeholder engagement
- Has some experience working with various communications and management software, such as Google Suite
Conditions
- Duration of Position: The first term is 12 months in total, with a 3 months trial period in the beginning. However, subject to review of work performance, this position may be extended.
- Reporting: This position reports to the Global Networks Project Lead
- Communication: Candidate is required to be proactive and communicate with the team within maximum
- Compensation: Voluntary
- Training: Every candidate is required to complete all SDSN Youth online induction courses, guidelines review, and any other training available at the time of joining.
Commitment
- Total Weekly Hours: 10 hours per week (minimum)
- The initial mandate is for 1 years but it can be extended
BENEFITS
In becoming part of the team as a Project Officer, individuals will be responsible for fostering strong interest for the SDGs in order to drive youth-led and youth-focused solutions to the 2030 Agenda. This is an incredibly rewarding role that will enable Project Officers to develop their knowledge, harness their skills, and come across a series of life-changing opportunities that may include:
- Representing SDSN Youth at different levels whenever possible and if appropriate;
- Engage with key stakeholders from government, NGOs to private sector when applicable;
- Build a personal brand around sustainability and the SDGs;
- Work in a multicultural environment and be immersed in a global workplace;
- Receive capacity-building trainings to grow personally and professionally whenever possible;