Be part of a youth-powered movement for cleaner, healthier and climate-resilient cities.
The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), in partnership with UrbanBetter, is inviting applications for UrbanBetter Cityzens Run Leaders under the Joburg Cityzens for Clean Air Project.
This exciting opportunity empowers young people to use citizen science, physical activity, and advocacy to create cleaner, more sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.
About the Role
UrbanBetter Cityzens Run Leaders are citizen scientists who organise and lead running and walking activities to collect environmental health data and raise awareness about clean air and healthy public spaces.
As part of the Joburg Cityzens for Clean Air Project, Run Leaders will play a key role in mobilising their communities, amplifying youth voices, and contributing to data-driven advocacy for urban health and climate action.
Run Leaders will:
- Coordinate community-based “running activations” using wearable air-quality sensors and the UrbanBetter Cityzens app.
- Recruit and mentor other youth participants (“Cityzens”) to take part in clean air and healthy city campaigns.
- Analyse and communicate findings through blogs, briefings, and social media storytelling.
- Co-design campaigns and advocacy events with local partners, amplifying public demand for climate-resilient public spaces.
This is a part-time, one-year role beginning in December 2025, with structured mentorship, training, and opportunities for visibility through the UrbanBetter network.
Who Can Apply
We’re looking for passionate young changemakers who are:
- 18–35 years old, based in Johannesburg, and available for field activities.
- Interested in urban health, climate action, and community engagement.
- Able to complete both the Run Tracker and Run Leader Training Modules on the UrbanBetter Cityzens Training Platform before applying.
- Excited to use physical activity as a tool for awareness and data-driven advocacy.
Why Join?
As a Run Leader, you will:
- Gain practical experience in citizen science, community engagement, and advocacy.
- Receive ongoing mentorship and communications support from the UrbanBetter team.
- Participate in exciting campaigns such as the Soweto Marathon activation and quarterly city-wide clean air events.
- Become part of a Pan-African network of young leaders championing healthier urban futures.
Before You Apply
Please review the full Terms of Reference for UrbanBetter Cityzens Run Leaders – Joburg for detailed information on responsibilities, deliverables, and timelines.
Only applicants who have completed the required online training modules will be considered.
How to Apply
Deadline: 5 December 2025, 20:00 SAST
Training & Registration: https://cityzens.urbanbetter.science/register
Application Form: Apply via Google Form
Enquiries: johannesburgcityzenshub@urbanbetter.science
