UNA-CYEP
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FROM GLOBAL TO LOCAL
The UNA-Chicago Youth Empowerment Program (UNA-CYEP) is a dynamic platform that equips young people across the Chicago area to become informed, active, and engaged participants in local and global civic life. Designed to amplify youth voices in alignment with the mission and values of the United Nations Association, the program serves as a vital bridge between the next generation of leaders and international advocacy on peace, sustainable development, human rights, and democratic participation.
VISION
VISION
We believe young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also essential stakeholders in the decisions of today. Building on initiatives like the Global Goals Program, the Youth Empowerment Program focuses specifically on amplifying youth representation in political advocacy rooted in UNA-USA principles. Our mission is to ensure that youth are not just participants in conversations on global issues, but central voices shaping them.
WHAT WE DO
Operating within the framework of the United Nations Association and its Chicago-based networks, the Program works to:
Facilitate Youth Engagement
Host events and initiatives that promote active citizenship, political awareness, and global cooperation. These include speaker series, forums, interactive workshops, volunteer drives, Model UN simulations, and cultural exchange programs.Connect Youth to the UN
Provide pathways for young people to participate in UNA programs, attend international youth summits, engage with global policy initiatives, and connect with local chapters of international bodies.Support Youth-Led Projects
Sponsor and uplift projects that align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), from climate action and gender equality to education, poverty alleviation, and peace building.Promote Awareness
Expand understanding of the UNA’s mission among youth audiences through outreach, school partnerships, community collaborations, and a strong digital presence that brings global issues into local contexts.Build Leadership Pipelines
Create equitable pathways for leadership and representation, ensuring youth from all backgrounds—especially those historically underrepresented—have access to platforms of influence within UNA-related spheres.
IMPACT
Through this multi-pronged approach, the Youth Empowerment Program fosters a culture of inclusion, curiosity, and action. We empower young people to see themselves as global citizens with the ability to drive change locally and globally. By providing access to tools, networks, and meaningful opportunities, the program is shaping a new generation of thoughtful, connected, and committed leaders, ready to carry forward the mission of the United Nations.
Are you passionate about amplifying youth voices and driving meaningful change in your community and beyond?
The UNA-Chicago Youth Empowerment Program (UNA-CYEP) is looking for dedicated change makers to serve as Youth Empowerment Leaders or Committee Members—advocates who champion youth representation, host impactful events, and inspire their peers to take action on both local and global issues.
Here’s what you can expect—and what we’ll expect from you—when you join this growing network of youth leaders.
POTENTIAL COMMITTEE MEMBERS
All Committee Members of the Youth Empowerment Program are expected to uphold the mission of amplifying youth voices and empowering peers. Responsibilities include actively participating in board meetings, contributing to discussions and decision-making, and taking initiative in leading projects or fulfilling role-specific duties. Committee Members also support events and programs through planning, promotion, and participation, while collaborating effectively with fellow members, volunteers, and community partners. As leaders, they represent the program within their schools and communities by recruiting members and raising awareness. The expected time commitment is approximately 8–12 hours per month, with additional involvement during major events. Each Committee Member serves a one-year term, with the option to renew based on performance and interest.
WRITERS AND SCHOOL REPRESENTATIVES
Writers and School Representatives play vital roles in advancing the mission of the Youth Empowerment Program. Ambassadors attend bi-monthly meetings, help plan and host events, and promote the program within their schools and communities. Writers contribute articles, stories, and opinion pieces to the program’s website—celebrating youth achievements, sharing updates, and inspiring others through their work. School Representatives act as liaisons between their schools and the program by either hosting at least one event per year or maintaining a UNA-Chicago Chapter on campus. Together, these positions ensure the program’s mission reaches and empowers youth across the city.
Benefits of Joining the Youth Empowerment Program:
Represent the program as an official youth ambassador in the Greater Chicago area.
Gain public recognition on our website and social media platforms
Receive invitations to Youth Empowerment Program events and the annual Awards Ceremony.
Build leadership skills, expand your network, and inspire change in your community
JOIN
To become a leader or Committee Member with UNA-Chicago, begin by completing the application form. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed, and if selected, you will be invited to an interview.
Candidates who complete the interview will receive a selection email and proceed through our official onboarding process.
As a Youth Program Leader, you’ll inspire a movement. If you’re passionate about international development, local engagement, and being a force for good, we invite you to join us.
Arjun Sawhney
Youth Empowerment Committee Director
Arjun Sawhney, founder of the UNA Chicago Youth Empowerment Program, is dedicated to elevating youth voices and expanding opportunities for young leaders. Through new chapters across Chicagoland, he’s raising awareness of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and empowering students to strengthen their communities.
Beyond UNA Chicago, Arjun co-founded the Youth Engagement in Politics Club and volunteers with organizations like the LUV Institute, Bookwallah, the League of Women Voters, and Working Bikes to advance youth empowerment. Passionate about economics and public policy, he explores how data can promote equity for underrepresented communities.
An active participant in Model UN, varsity tennis, and jazz saxophone, Arjun values teamwork, discipline, and creativity as he works to inspire young people to lead and drive meaningful change.
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