The future of the Arctic must be shaped by Arctic voices. ARCYF was launched to make this vision a reality, empowering the next generation of leaders to build a more resilient and sustainable North. Our inaugural cohort brought together 18 exceptional young leaders from across Alaska, Canada, and Greenland, spanning more than 3,500 miles of the circumpolar world. Through intensive skill-building workshops, a dynamic curriculum, and hands-on community projects, these fellows tackled the most pressing challenges facing their homes—from climate adaptation and responsible resource development to Indigenous governance and cultural preservation.

The journey of our first fellows was truly transformative, taking them from presenting policy pitches at the Arctic Encounter Symposium in Alaska to engaging with Greenland’s Parliament and the Inuit Circumpolar Council. They forged deep cross-cultural bonds while developing real-world solutions for their communities. This landmark fellowship is just the beginning. As we celebrate the profound accomplishments of our first cohort, we are already preparing to launch a second, building on this powerful foundation to continue investing in the emerging leaders who will steer the future of the Arctic.