The Sustainable Development Solutions Network Youth Initiative (SDSN Youth) is excited to announce the 8th Cohort of the Local Pathways Fellowship (LPF). This year, 124 exceptional young leaders from 96 cities have been selected following a competitive process that attracted 1469 applicants. These fellows will embark on a 10-month journey to promote urban innovation and advance Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) – Sustainable Cities and Communities.

This year, LPF introduces a new partnership with the Institute for Humane Education (IHE). Fellows will receive training on the Solutionary Framework, equipping them with the tools to develop scalable, ethical solutions to urban challenges. This collaboration strengthens the fellowship’s impact and ensures fellows have the resources to create lasting change in their communities.

The 8th Cohort will benefit from several new enhancements:

• Expanded Training Modules on topics such as climate-resilient urban planning, smart cities, and inclusive urban design.
• Mentorship Opportunities with urban development experts, policymakers, and SDSN Youth alumni.
• Global Showcase: A new platform to highlight fellows’ projects and amplify their impact.

Since its inception, the Local Pathways Fellowship has nurtured over 700 alumni across more than 100 cities worldwide. Many of these fellows have gone on to become influential urban planners, policymakers, and sustainability advocates. As we welcome the 2025 cohort, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering youth-driven action for inclusive and sustainable urban transformation.

We invite our global community to follow the journey of the 8th Cohort as they work to transform their cities. Stay updated on their projects and impact through SDSN Youth’s website and social media channels.

the next generation of urban innovators by following their work and sharing their impact. Join the movement toward sustainable, resilient cities and communities worldwide.

Looking ahead, the Local Pathways Fellowship aims to scale its impact by empowering thousands of young leaders globally to drive the urban transformations needed to meet the SDGs. Together, we can create cities that are sustainable, inclusive, and resilient.

For further details and to access the list of 2025 LPF Fellows and their biographies, please visit the Local Pathways Fellowship's website.

 For media inquiries, contact Aastha Sharma, Project Officer, Communications at aastha.sharma@sdsnyouth.com.

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