The Commonwealth Youth Council is inviting applicants from Samoa and the broader Pacific to apply to lead a council representing 1.4 billion young people across the confederation's 54 member countries. 

The Council is calling onto all interested candidates, including those who applied last year, to resubmit applications, after the process was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Commonwealth is seeking to fill nine executive positions filled from 2021 to 2023.

In a press release, the Commonwealth’s Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, said it was crucial to give young people the opportunity to occupy decision-making roles in a time where the world is facing great challenges. 

“At a time of unprecedented crises rooted in disease, discrimination and disaster, young people are at a greater risk of challenges such as poverty, unemployment and learning losses than other age groups,” she said.

“However, they remain positive, engaged and vocal on the challenges and opportunities.

“Now more than ever, we must harness their exceptional vitality, impressive talent and unique perspective in our recovery and rebuilding efforts.

“The Commonwealth Youth Council is one such platform, which gives young leaders, who best understand the challenges of their peers, a seat at tables to influence decisions affecting their lives and future.”

The Chairperson role of the Council is only open to applicants from the Pacific, as per the organisation’s rotation policy.

Other seats includes, Vice-Chairperson – Inclusion and Engagement, Vice-Chairperson – Partnerships and Resources, Vice-Chairperson – Policy and Advocacy, Regional Representative – Africa and Europe, Regional Representative – Asia Regional, Representative – Caribbean and Americas, Regional Representative – Pacific, and the Representative Special Interest Groups

Applicants are required to between the ages of 15 to 27 years old. They have until Sunday, February 21, 2020 to submit applications.

Candidates must have at least three years of experience working with a national youth council or a youth-led organisation.

After nominations and clearance, shortlisted candidates will campaign online from 29 March 2021 to 5 May 2021. The elections will take place online on 7 and 8 May 2021, while the results will be announced on 10 May 2021.