Join the Board of Rural Youth Europe

Empower rural young people - Shape European youth policy - Lead with purpose

Rural Youth Europe (RYE) is looking for passionate, motivated young leader from the Five Nations of YFC in the British Isles to join its Board for a two‑year mandate.

If you care about rural youth, international cooperation, intercultural learning and making a real impact across Europe, this is your opportunity.

About Rural Youth Europe

Rural Youth Europe is a member‑led organisation: democratically constituted and led by young people for young people.

Rural Youth Europe (RYE) is a European NGO founded in 1957, representing rural youth organisations across the continent and it aims to unite rural youth organisations across Europe to promote rural development, environmental‑friendly lifestyle, youth participation.

It does this through:

• Being the voice of rural youth in Europe
• Promoting intercultural dialogue, democracy, human rights and inclusion
• Support youth participation and leadership
• Advocates for rural youth in European institutions
• Provides international training, events and learning opportunities

Role: Board Member (Volunteer Position)

Term: 2 years

Time commitment: Typically, 4–5 hours/week + monthly meetings + events

What Board members do?

Board Members lead the organisation, shape its strategy, and represent thousands of rural young people across Europe. The board is responsible for the strategic direction and overall governance of the organisation.

As part of the 7‑member Board, members will:

• Contribute to strategic direction and governance of RYE
• Represent RYE at events, meetings and international activities
• Uphold and promote RYE’s values and Code of Conduct
• Work closely with member organisations in your regional group
• Participate in monthly meetings with 4–5 of thee being in‑person meetings per year held in Europe
• Support the planning of the annual European Rally and seminars
• Take on a portfolio (internal affairs, external affairs, finance, membership, policy, etc.)
• Make decisions collaboratively and transparently

Applicants will be a great fit if they are:

• A member or Associate member of the National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs aged between 18–30 as RYE is youth‑led
• Are passionate about rural youth, participation and European cooperation
• Are motivated to volunteer time and energy for a meaningful cause
• Enjoy working in a team and communicating across cultures
• Are organised, responsible and proactive
• Are ready to travel for meetings and events

Experience in youth organisations, advocacy, project work or leadership is a plus — but not required. Enthusiasm and commitment matter most.

Time commitment

Board members typically contribute:

• 4–5 hours per week of volunteer work
• Monthly online meetings
• 4–5 in‑person meetings per year, usually over a weekend
• One full week at the European Rally (August)
• Additional representation opportunities depending on your availability

Why join the RYE Board?

• Make a real impact on rural youth across Europe
• Gain leadership, governance and advocacy experience
• Build a strong international network
• Represent young people at European institutions and events
• Learn from intercultural teamwork and youth work practices
• Be part of a supportive, inspiring community

Further information

A full information pack, prepared by RYE can be downloaded from here:

RYE introduction document for potential new board members 2025.pdf

How to Apply

Apply to the NFYFC in the first instance by emailing recruitment@nfyfc.org.uk

NFYFC members should submit a letter of application, detailing:

• the skills and experience they can bring to the post
• reasons and motivation for applying

Nominations will be shortlisted and reviewed by a panel comprising of the elected office holders of the British Isles the Five Nations - (NFYFC, Wales FYFC, Scottish Association of YFC, YFC Ulster and Macra na Feirme).

Application deadline

9.00hrs, Monday 27 April 2026