In order to promote lasting change towards a more sustainable world the
environmental movement is in constant need of inspirational and skilful
leadership. Young people working for environmental CSOs, especially in
developing countries, often have few opportunities to develop leadership
skills due to a lack of resources for schooling, training or practical
learning.
The Joke Waller-Hunter (JWH) Initiative creates opportunities for young
people in the environmental sector in developing countries to unfold
their full potential. By giving small grants to individuals to expand
their knowledge, experience and training, the Initiative aims to
strengthen environmental Civil Society Organisations capacity and
efficiency. The mission of the JWH Initiative is thus to provide an
accessible and tailored small grant for education and training of
individuals who are nominated by their organisation as potential future
leaders.
oung people who work or are affiliated with environmental CSO’s in
developing countries and emerging economies who have shown potential for
and interest in further developing their leadership. Candidates can
come from anywhere except from ‘advanced economies’ (see below for list
based on the IMF classification). The definition of ‘young’ is not
linked to a concrete age limit. However, preference will be given to
young women and men under 35 of age. We would like to especially
encourage the nomination of young women and local community leaders.
The candidates should have proof of an excellent track record in:
- fully embracing the idea of sustainable development;
- a strong background in working on environmental and sustainable development issues;
- showing potential and ambition towards becoming a leader in her/his field of work, such as being inspirational and a support to others, working with communities, being innovative and creative;
- committed to work on environmental and sustainable development issues in their country/region. The candidate should be willing and have the potential to report on the development of their leadership capacities.
The grant can be applied for a wide range of activities, depending on
the individuals’ need and interest. Most grantees use the funding for
advancing either their knowledge and skills through studies, courses,
trainings. or their expanding their experience through internships,
exposure and exchange travels, participation in conferences, high level
meetings etc. The candidate should have a clear idea on what it is that
she/he intends to use the grant for before applying.
