Have you ever dreamt of standing alongside other young leaders and changemakers from all over the world, advocating for human rights, climate action, and peace?
Let us introduce you to an exciting opportunity of becoming a youth Delegate to The Youth Assembly, an initiative launched in 2002 by Friendship Ambassador Foundation, an NGO formally associated with UN Department of Global Communications. For many years, the Assembly has taken place at the United Nations headquarters in New York City twice a year, bringing together the smartest, most innovative and engaged young leaders to explore cross-cutting issues and solutions for sustainable development in the social, economic, and environmental dimensions. This year, The 24th Session of The Youth Assembly will be held for the first time in a new host city, the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. The unique platform of The Youth Assembly is designed for fostering dialogue and generating partnerships between exceptional youth, civil society, the private sector and the international community.
The usual age to be eligible to apply as a Delegate is from 16 to 28, but candidates above this age can apply as an Observer. The Youth Assembly is open for any nationality, hence is very competitive and requires a proven track record of leadership experience, school, or community involvement and interests in global affairs, sustainable development, and youth issues. The Assembly last for three to eight days and generally includes thematic discussions, skill-building workshops, social venture competition, post-event mentorship, and field visits to consulates and national institutions and organizations.
The conference only package, which starts at $220, doesn’t include accommodation, food, and travel. There are however other packages that do include 3-star hotels and entry to some exclusive events. In any case, visa cost and airfare are to be taken care by the applicant himself/herself. Once you have registered and have been qualified as a Delegate the organizers of the conference has a Facebook group for all delegates, where you can also find a buddy to share a room with, at a hotel or Airbnb. The foundation will also send you an official invitation letter, to apply for a visa.
For those of you with an innovative idea for impact-oriented projects should also apply for the Impact Challenge, which is designed exclusively for the youth leaders and changemakers, who are working in their communities with an enthusiasm for social innovation. The winners will be featured prominently on FAF’s global platforms, receive mentorship on social entrepreneurship and will also receive seed funding for the implementation of their projects. The Youth Assembly is an example of initiatives that aims to create a network of youth from diverse backgrounds with world-changing potential. Beyond excelling at The Youth Assembly, you will return as a Delegate to your home country to initiate or continue work on the ground. Attending youth-oriented initiatives like The Youth Assembly is an investment for yourself and your career. A day out of the comfort zone to sharpen your skills is investing in yourself. It is admitting that you are worth it, that you still have things to learn and that you can get better. Applications for the 24th Session of The Youth assembly is open until the end of July, but only limited spots are open. Read more details on the official website.
