CSW71 SAEF Delegate Application 2027: Attend the UN Commission on the Status of Women in New York

What Is the CSW71 SAEF Delegation?

The UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is the world's largest annual UN gathering on gender equality and women's empowerment. Every March, governments, civil society, activists and young leaders meet at UN Headquarters in New York to discuss women's rights and progress for women and girls.

The Southern Africa Embrace Foundation (SAEF), a registered charity based in Toronto, Canada, is inviting applications to join its delegation to the 71st session (CSW71) in 2027. Selected delegates get a UN CSW accreditation badge. The badge gives access to the two-week conference, its side events and global networking.

Important Dates

• Application deadline: 31 December 2026
• Mandatory delegation days: 8–12 March 2027 (the first week of CSW71)
• Report due: 10 April 2027
• Location: UN Headquarters, New York, USA

Who Can Apply?

• Adults aged 18 and above, with an 18–35 age range included
• Women, men and young people passionate about gender equality
• People who can attend in person in New York from 8 to 12 March 2027

Priority goes to applicants who:

• Already have a valid US visa
• Come from visa-exempt countries
• Are based in regions with fewer travel restrictions

Applicants who need a visa can still apply.

What You Get

• A UN CSW accreditation badge for the full two-week session
• A UN Women visa support letter, generated through the UN's INDIGO system after SAEF approves your registration
• The chance to take part in official sessions, side events and parallel events
• Networking with activists, policymakers and organisations from around the world
• A delegation meetup with fellow SAEF delegates
• Global experience to add to your CV and LinkedIn

Costs to Keep in Mind

This is a self-funded opportunity. Delegates pay for their own:

• Flights
• Accommodation
• Visa
• Daily expenses

If you are selected, SAEF also asks for a CAD 100 donation before your INDIGO registration. The donation supports the delegation meetup and SAEF's Women and Youth Empowerment Programme. It is non-refundable, even if your visa is refused.

Note: The UN itself does not charge any fee to attend CSW.

How to Apply

1. Open the application form.
2. Fill in your personal details, including your LinkedIn profile and social media handles.
3. Answer questions about your US visa status and past UN experience.
4. Write a short statement (up to 300 words) on why you want to join the delegation.
5. Agree to the commitments:
   • Attend delegation meetings from 8 to 12 March 2027
   • Write a 500-word report after the conference
   • Make the CAD 100 donation if selected
6. Submit before 31 December 2026.

Simple Tips

• In your statement, mention any work you have done for women, girls or gender equality.
• If you need a US visa, apply early, because appointment wait times can be long.
• Plan your budget for New York in advance, as it is an expensive city.
• Keep your LinkedIn profile updated, since it is part of your application.
• Only pay the donation once you are comfortable with the terms and your travel plans are realistic.

Apply Here

• Application form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScEK_uUEiM2pB3FnC54fbaKsc2Yx9l2hLQ2Ro7SYCXkYUV30g/viewform

Disclaimer: World Opportunities Hub is an independent information platform. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Southern Africa Embrace Foundation, UN Women or the United Nations. Please check all details before applying.

| Organization | Southern Africa Embrace Foundation (SAEF) | | Region | New York, USA (UN Headquarters) | | Deadline | 31 December 2026 | | Level | Ages 18+ (youth and professionals) | | Funding | Self-funded |