The fifth ‘YEP Effect’ has just been published. This magazine reflects on 16 batches of Young Experts in YEP Phase I, and on the new YEP Tailor-made programme. We are currently negotiating YEP Phase II and hope to continue the Young Expert Programmes (YEP Programmes) soon. In the last few years, YEP Programmes kickstarted the international careers of 404 Young Experts, making a huge impact in 38 countries. ‘YEP Effect’ 5 discusses their experiences and contributions to the SDGs in the water and agrifood sectors.