Changes in the Arctic don’t happen overnight, and solutions don’t either. Effective solutions require understanding of complex challenges and innovative ideas. That's why the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Conservation Foundation, and World Wildlife Fund are committed to empowering youth in Alaska through the Arctic Youth Ambassadors program. The vision of the program is to bring lasting change to the world and stewardship of the Arctic through dedicated leadership and influence of Arctic youth. The program supports youth in pursuing their interests, elevates the lived experiences and knowledge of Alaskan youth, and facilitates a growing network of partners, mentors, and youth.
Established in 2015 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Department of State in partnership with nonprofit partner Alaska Geographic, the Arctic Youth Ambassadors Program brings together diverse youth from across Alaska to serve as ambassadors for their communities and country in building awareness at home and abroad about life in the Arctic. Since its launch, there have been three 18-month cohorts with 50 Alaskan youth ages 18-22 offering invaluable expertise to address challenges impacting their communities. The program uplifts crucial yet underrepresented voices in the Arctic arena. Over half of the ambassadors identify as Alaska Native and 80% are from rural communities. The ambassadors spread awareness and understanding of the unique and shared challenges and opportunities in their communities. From leading 22 national and international presentations and publishing over 50 media projects, to meeting with Arctic leaders and collaborating with youth across the Arctic, the Arctic Youth Ambassadors are building a youth-led movement for positive change.
Recruitment for the 2023-2024 cohort will start in fall 2022.
2015-2017
The inaugural AYA cohort cohort served during the U.S. Chairmanship of the Arctic Council, during which they shared both their local perspective on Arctic issues and priorities and new knowledge they gained by engaging with partners and leaders from around the world. They added their voices and solutions to a global conversation about how to sustain communities, cultures, and the environment in the changing Arctic.
2017-2019
Cohort 2 worked with the Arctic Council’s Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna (CAFF) Working Group, which was chaired by the U.S. as Finland assumed leadership of the Arctic Council.
2020-2021
