For the third consecutive year, WMO is pleased to launch the Global Integrated Flood and Drought Management Competition for Youth-Led Projects. This initiative funds innovative, youth-led solutions that enhance global resilience to water-related hazards and contribute to the Early Warnings for All initiative.
Young people are not only victims of climate change - they are also key contributors to climate action. They bring innovation and creativity to building climate resilience. However, despite their potential, youth remain underrepresented in climate action, policymaking, and decision-making. This year's competition aims to engage youth in climate action and strengthen global resilience to flood and drought, aligning with the Early Warnings for All. The specific objectives are:
- Strengthen community resilience to floods and droughts by promoting youth-led initiatives in preparedness, response, and adaptation.
- Demonstrate the impact of youth-led projects in enhancing community resilience.
- Create long-term opportunities for youth to implement, scale, and sustain their projects, ensuring their initiatives gain visibility and contribute meaningfully to climate action.
How to submit your proposal
More details on the competition and information on how to apply can be found here . All proposals must be submitted by 16 March 2025.
Youth-Led Projects Success stories
Over the years, this competition has supported projects that transformed communities and enhanced disaster resilience. Here are some highlights from previous winning projects:
- Water from a Rock - Developed a real-time risk and preparedness platform to map disasters and identify high-risk areas in South Africa.
- Collaborative Mapping for Flooding Resilience - Empowered local communities in Medellín, Colombia, by providing training in collaborative mapping and developing a comprehensive cartographic database for vulnerable areas.
- AWAKE - Focused on inclusive education and disaster preparedness, equipping children and people with disabilities in Indonesia with knowledge and skills to respond effectively to floods and droughts.
- YouthMappers Project - utilized GIS and open-source mapping tools in Tanzania to identify flood-prone areas, map evacuation routes, and strengthen early warning systems for at-risk communities.
The competition is organized by the Associated Programme on Flood Management (APFM) & Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP) - joint programmes of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and Global Water Partnership (GWP) in partnership with the Water Youth Network (WYN) .
