PepsiCo and the PepsiCo foundation have launched an initiative to Empower Sustainability Leaders in the Middle East and North Africa
The Youth Impact Studio (YIS) is a transformative initiative launched by PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation, in partnership with Zigzag Ventures as the implementation partner. It is a transformative program aimed at cultivating a new generation of sustainability leaders in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region through an immersive and impactful experience.
Program Vision
The Youth Impact Studio program is designed to create a stimulating environment that enables young individuals from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq to develop their leadership and innovative skills in the field of sustainability. The program aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive sustainability innovation and impact initiatives in their local communities and contribute to building a sustainable future.
Program Stages
Application and Pre-selection
Registration officially began on December 20, 2024, and will continue until January 2025 for each of the six participating countries. Applicants will be evaluated based on eligibility, interest in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) fields, and alignment with the program’s objectives. Thirty selected applicants from each country will be invited to attend a one-day pre-selection event.
Bootcamp
Ten applicants from each country will be chosen from the pre-selected candidates, resulting in a total of 60 young participants from various countries in the region. These participants will attend the Bootcamp held in El Gouna from February 22 to 24, 2025. During the bootcamp, they will engage with mentors and experts in ESG principles, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. The program will cover key topics such as green technology, climate action, and sustainable business practices, providing participants with the necessary guidance and support.
Final Event
After completing the bootcamp, participants will be invited to attend a one-day final event in their respective countries. This event will include the announcement of winners and closing ceremonies, allowing participants to showcase their projects and connect with industry leaders.
Program Benefits
- Networking: Build a strong network with industry leaders and potential employers.
- Engagement: Participate in hands-on projects towards sustainable city models.
- Support: Receive long-term support through mentorship and networking opportunities.
- Certification: Obtain certificates of participation upon successful completion of the program.
Additional Advantages
- Special Awards: Twelve winners (two from each country) will receive training in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) from the University of California, Berkeley.
- Internship Opportunities: Over 15 internship opportunities focused on innovation and sustainability will be offered by PepsiCo, partner companies, and sponsors.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be in their final year of study, recent graduates, or early-career professionals (up to 3 years of work experience).
- Applicants must have a strong interest in ESG principles.
- Proficiency in English.
- Applicants must be citizens or residents of the country they are applying from.
- Commitment to all program dates and attendance at the three-day bootcamp in El Gouna.
For More Information
To learn more about the program and to apply, please visit the official Youth Impact Studio website at www.youthimpactstudio.com. For the latest updates and to connect with the team, follow their official accounts on social media platforms.
