Course Objectives
The UN System Leadership Framework emphasizes that leadership exists across various contexts and levels. All personnel within the UN system, regardless of their position, duties, or location, are called to lead. We recognize the significant untapped leadership potential within the General Service staff.
In response, the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG) has been launching the Game Shifter Leadership Development Lab since 2021, specifically designed for General Service staff across the UN system. Running from September to November, Game Shifter is a rigorous 13-week experiential learning programme. A cohort of selected participants will collaborate with experienced organizational psychologists, business strategists, and change leaders to uncover their strengths, enhance self-awareness, and acquire practical skills to elevate their professional trajectories. The programme includes virtual core modules, level-up modules, and individual asynchronous learning assignments. For programmes offered to staff working in Geneva-based organizations, selected in-person sessions may be offered.
A key factor in the programme’s success is the support from sponsors—typically participants' managers or organizations that endorse their development—distinguishing it from traditional leadership development programs. A strong partnership between participants and their sponsors will provide meaningful opportunities for applying new skills in the workplace post-program. Interested staff are encouraged to discuss their interest in participating with their managers to secure their support throughout and following the completion of this learning experience.
How to Apply:
Nominations Process normally runs from July to August, and consists of:
- A Registration Form (see below) to be completed by the participant (See Information Packet here)
- Optional but highly recommended: a letter of commitment signed by the sponsor (manager/ supervisor) to support the participant on their Game Shifter journey (template attached)
- A short bio or updated Personal History Profile/ Candidate Profile of the applicant
Who can enrol?
- Staff members from the General Service at any level. For non-UN Secretariat applicants, please make sure to get your training focal point's approval
- Fixed-term or permanent/continuing appointment
- Applicants with five years of continuous service with the UN Secretariat will be prioritized
Nominations are considered on a rolling basis until programme capacity is reached.
If you are ready to ignite change in yourself and those around you, sign up via the registration link below:
Registration Form (Specific dates of the prorgamme can be found in the registration form):
For UN Secretariat (UN Geneva, OHCHR, OCHA, UNCTAD, UNECE, UNEP) : 2026 Game Shifter ¦ Igniting General Service (GS) staff potential (UN Secretariat) – Fill out form
For non-UN Secretariat: 2026 Game Shifter ¦ Igniting General Service (GS) staff potential (Non-UN Secretariat) – Fill out form
Target audience
Staff members from the General Service category
Remarks:
Game Shifter is available for all UN entities, in three languages, English, French and Spanish. If you are interested in this activity, please contact us by sending an email to clm_mc@un.org.
Duration
Equivalent to 5 days spread over 2.5 months (mix of virtual and in-person sessions)