Youth For Sustainability Initiatives At ADSW 2026: Y4S Announces Record Cohorts For Ambassadors And FSL

Youth 4 Sustainability has reported record interest in its 2026 Sustainability Ambassadors and Future Sustainability Leaders programmes, signalling stronger demand for skills in the low-carbon economy. Across both tracks, Y4S received almost 1,600 applications, with places awarded to 104 participants from diverse backgrounds, highlighting the appeal of structured sustainability training among youth in the UAE and internationally.

The Sustainability Ambassadors programme attracted almost 600 applications, more than double the previous year’s level, with 50 young people selected from 10 nationalities. Emirati youth represented 76 percent of this cohort. Participants, all aged between 15 and 18, join expert-led sessions on renewable energy, the circular economy, sustainable agriculture and sustainability in finance, supported by practical digital training.

Within Sustainability Ambassadors, the Code 4 Climate component equips school-aged participants with digital and coding skills. These skills support the design of climate technology ideas that respond to real-world environmental and social challenges. The approach links climate literacy with early exposure to technology, encouraging participants to consider how data, software and innovation can support national and global climate goals.

The Future Sustainability Leaders programme targets an older group, aged 19 to 35, and connects emerging professionals with senior voices in the energy and sustainability sectors. For the 2026 cycle, the initiative received 988 applications, a 32 percent increase from the previous year, with 54 participants selected. Of these, 48 are residents of the UAE, reflecting strong domestic engagement alongside international interest.

Future Sustainability Leaders benefit from structured mentorship relationships with industry professionals and recognised thought leaders. Through these interactions, participants receive guidance that builds confidence, strengthens technical understanding and clarifies career options in energy and sustainability fields. The programme also emphasises community involvement, with participants contributing to volunteer initiatives that link learning with on-the-ground impact.

Reinforcing the international dimension, Future Sustainability Leaders take part in the Beyond Borders Program. This element offers cross-cultural learning, dialogue and global engagement, encouraging participants to understand how policy, technology and finance interact across different markets. The design aims to prepare young professionals to engage with regional and global stakeholders on long-term climate and energy strategies.

Commenting on the rising interest, Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director of Brand and Strategic Initiatives at Masdar, said: "The record number of applications received for the Youth 4 Sustainability programmes this year shows that young people are eager to play their part in driving the global energy transformation. The Y4S programmes provide them with the skills, networks, and mindset they need to drive sustainable progress, helping them to turn passion into action, and intent into impact, shaping a more resilient future." The statement links the growth of the programmes to wider shifts in the global energy system.

The three-day Y4S Forum at Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 is designed to inspire and prepare youth audiences for leadership roles. Its agenda places young people at the centre of discussions on sustainable growth, innovation and climate resilience. The Forum operates with Abu Dhabi Department of Energy as Principal Partner, connecting participants with policy contexts that influence regional investment and planning decisions.

The Department of Energy oversees planning and direction for Abu Dhabi’s energy sector, including policies, regulations and long-term strategies. The organisation works to support an effective energy transition that underpins the emirate’s sustainable growth, while protecting consumers and reducing environmental impact. These objectives align with Youth 4 Sustainability’s focus on building future leaders able to contribute to stable, low-carbon economic development.

With inputs from WAM