Meet the UNA-USA Youth Observer to the UN

 

Get to Know Ose Ehianeta Arheghan 

A self-identified modern renaissance person, Ose Ehianeta Arheghan (they/them) is a journalist, community organizer, and policy nerd. Holding Bachelor’s degrees in Chinese and Political Science with a specialization in International Relations from The Ohio State University, Arheghan is also recognized as a Harry S. Truman Scholar. 

A passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, with a particular focus on queer and trans youth of color, Arheghan’s efforts have earned them numerous accolades, including being named an inaugural GLAAD 20 under 20 Rising Star, GLSEN National Student Advocate of the Year, and a Matthew Shepard Foundation Spirit of Matthew awardee. Their advocacy work was further recognized with an invitation to the White House for the Biden family’s event “A Night When Hope and History Rhyme.” 

Arheghan’s voice speaks truth to power by blending journalism with political advocacy. Their work covers a broad spectrum of topics such as LGBTQ+ policy, arts, and culture, and can be found in publications like NPR, The Advocate, GLSEN.org, GLAAD AMP, and others. 

A committed member of the United Nations Association (UNA) since 2018, Arheghan’s journey began as a youth member of the Ohio State University campus chapter and later flourished as a United Nations Association Global Goals Ambassador for Sustainable Development Goal 10. Throughout their involvement with UNA, they have hosted educational sessions, moderated panels, and assisted with campus events, all aimed at fostering greater understanding and awareness of the UN’s mission. 

Beyond their contributions to the UNA, Arheghan has served as a presenter at various conferences and workshops, including Creating Change, the Midwest Bisexual Lesbian Gay Transgender Asexual College Conference, the Philadelphia Trans Wellness Conference, and Indiana University College of Education — their expertise centers on exploring the intersections of queerness, race, and youth. 

As they transition into the next phase of their life journey, Arheghan’s focus is firmly fixed on their aspirations to be a Professional Policy Nerd. Armed with valuable insights gained as a student and youth organizers, they are determined to continue bridging the gap between youth-led movements for a better future and the policymakers who have the authority to enshrine transformative change. In their capacity as the Youth Observer, Arheghan plans to champion education, amplify youth voices, and advocate for increased representation to bring about a more equitable and progressive tomorrow. 

 

Follow Ose as they foster a community of change-makers online, building a connection between the UN and young Americans:

About the Program

The UNA-USA Youth Observer to the UN elevates youth voices in the global policy dialogue around international issues. For a one-year term, an American between the ages of 18 and 25 is selected to engage and connect young people in the U.S. to the work of the UN. The Youth Observer travels throughout the U.S. to discover the issues important to young Americans and participates as a UNA-USA delegate at UN conferences.

 

FAQs

  • Is this a paid position?

No, the Youth Observer is a volunteer position.

  • I’m 25 about to turn 26, can I still apply?

Candidates who will still be 25 on August 12, 2024 are still eligible to apply.

  • I applied last year. Can I reapply?

Yes, you are welcome to reapply as  long as you meet the current eligibility requirements.

  • Will I need a letter of recommendation for my application? 

No, letters of recommendations are not required. However, if you have supplemental materials or information that you would like to include in your application, please include links to those materials in the final question on the application.

  • When is the deadline for applications?

Applications close April 25, 2024 at 11:59pm EST.

  • What happens after I apply?

Candidates who are selected to move forward in the application process will be notified on May 10, 2024.

  • How long is the Youth Observer term? 

The Youth Observer term lasts for 1 year from August 12, 2024 – August 12, 2025.

  • Is the Youth Observer part of the UN Youth Delegate Program?

The UNA-USA Youth Observer to the UN is not considered an official U.S. Youth Delegate to the UN as part of the UN Youth Delegate Program. However, the Youth Observer does work closely with UN Youth Delegates from other Member States and the U.S. Department of State on amplifying American youth voices at the UN.

  • How much of a time commitment and travel is expected? 

The Youth Observer is expected to be able to dedicate 8-10 hours per week during their term. There are periods that are busier than others, such as during the Youth Observer Listening Tour, UN CSW, UN ECOSOC Youth Forum and UN General Assembly where more hours will be required. The Youth Observer typically travels within the U.S. to Washington DC and New York, but additional travel to other U.S. cities and international destinations may also be required. Most engagements take place during the evenings and weekends, with some engagements during the day Monday-Friday.


 

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