Brock University students can start the new year building the skills needed to help tackle pressing global challenges like climate change and food security.

Open to all currently enrolled Canadian post-secondary students, the 2025 Youth Leadership Certificate for the SDGs is a free, online program that supports students in taking action on the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These 17 goals are part of a comprehensive plan of action to advance sustainable development on a global scale by
improving human lives and protecting the environment.

The initiative is offered by the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Canada, of which Brock University is a member, and the University of Calgary. SDSN Canada is a member of the SDSN, a not-for-profit organization established by the United Nations to promote the SDGs.

“Businesses and organizations are recognizing that their growth and survival are closely linked to sustainability and knowing the essentials of the SDGs can offer new graduates a unique career advantage,” said Liette Vasseur, Brock Professor of Biological Sciences and UNESCO Chair on Community Sustainability: From Local to Global. “The initiative also provides an opportunity for students to complement learnings from their degree programs and disciplines and connect with a global community of people that are committed to making lasting change for our planet.”

The program runs from February to April 2025. To complete the course, students will choose and complete a self-paced  SDG Academy course and attend a minimum of four interactive, online skill-building workshops.

Developed by leading experts on sustainable development, the program will provide students with a range of knowledge and skills such as a foundation in systems-based thinking, developing partnerships and cross-sector collaboration, and the basics of grant-writing and using social marketing tools.

All students that successfully complete the program will be awarded a certificate from SDSN Canada signed by Jeffrey Sachs, renowned economist and advisor on the SDGs to the UN.

The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Jan. 15. The program is free, but space is limited. To learn more about the certificate and apply, visit the SDSN Canada website.