Are you a Sámi Youth? Apply for Sáttanuorat: Sámi Youth Delegates Program!
Step into the world of Sámi diplomacy, advocacy, and leadership! Are you a Sámi youth passionate about making a difference on international platforms? Saami Council invites you to apply for the Sáttanuorat: Sámi Youth Delegates Program and gain experiences in international cooperation and Indigenous Peoples advocacy.
What is the Sáttanuorat: Sámi Youth Delegates Program?
The Saami Council is recruiting six Sámi youth between the ages of 18 and 30 to join a training program that provides hands-on experience in international Indigenous Peoples’ diplomacy, advocacy, and leadership. Over 1-2 years, participants will receive training and practical experience to equip Sámi youth with the tools to engage effectively on national, Arctic, and international platforms.
This volunteer-based program is designed to be flexible and can be balanced alongside studies or work. It is ideal for Sámi youth who want to understand how Sápmi engages in international arenas, learn about the history of Indigenous international advocacy and how it has evolved, explore the current platforms where Sápmi works towards shared goals, and understand how collaboration occurs both within Sápmi and with other Indigenous Peoples and governments. Through training and by joining the Saami Council’s delegations to meetings, participants will experience this work both in theory and practice. The program includes:
In-person training courses
Online preparation meetings
Travel opportunities to international meetings including practical tasks to support the delegation’s goals
This program is part of the Youth Together for Arctic Futures project, a 4-year initiative aimed at empowering Arctic and European youth to actively engage in climate action, nature conservation, and sustainable development policymaking. Funded by the European Union, the project brings together diverse youth voices through activities such as training in advocacy and networking, mentorship programs, and the creation of youth-led policy recommendations for Arctic and EU decision-makers.
Why apply?
Receive training in international cooperation, diplomacy, and advocacy
Learn about Sápmi’s history and its role on international platforms
Shadow experienced Sámi advocates at key international meetings
Gain practical experience in navigating decision-making processes
Build connections with Sámi youth, other youth advocates from the Arctic and Europe, Indigenous Peoples’ representatives, and key stakeholders present at international events.
All travel costs will be covered
Who can apply?
Sámi youth between the age of 18 and 30 years who can communicate in English. No previous experience or specific knowledge is required. We invite Sámi youth from all backgrounds and educational levels to apply. What is most important is that you have the interest and time.
How to apply:
Fill in the application form by 9 February 2025 23.59. The application should include relevant information about you and your motivation for applying.
Questions?
For more information, reach out to Anja Márjá N. Keskitalo and Per-Henning Mathisen.
anjamn.keskitalo@saamicouncil.net
About the Saami Council
The Saami Council is a voluntary and independent cultural, political, and cooperative organization for Sámi organizations in Finland, Norway, the Russian Federation, and Sweden. The overarching goal of the Saami Council is to safeguard the rights and interests of the Sámi as one people, as well as to strengthen the Sámi's cross-border affiliations. The Saami Council also works internationally to promote and secure the interests and rights of the Sámi and other Indigenous Peoples.
