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Youth Leadership Program

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Training the next generation of global leaders.

WorldChicago is a local coordinator for U.S. Department of State Youth Leadership Programs for international high school students and adult mentors. These short, yet dynamic programs inspire cross-cultural dialogue, build respect and mutual understanding, and boost civic engagement among young Americans and their international peers. Youth reside with Chicago-area host families for 1–2 weeks during their exchange to get a full immersion into everyday life in America. During the day, groups participate in hands-on workshops, skills training sessions, volunteer activities, and cultural events.

In 2014, WorldChicago hosted almost 150 international youth ages 11–19 from more than 20 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America. In 2015, we hosted students from sub-Saharan Africa, the UK, Japan, and South Korea. 2016 will bring youth from Africa, Iraq, Cuba, and the UK to Chicago.

“This was a life changing experience, a risk definitely worth taking.” — Youth leader from Iraq

To learn more about hosting a youth in your home or your classroom, please email Brian Peckrill or call 312.254.1800 x100.

Creating international experiences for Chicago youth.

Youth Leadership Programs also create opportunities for Chicago students to connect with world affairs on a local level and build global competency. They might participate in joint workshops with international youth; have youth and professional visitors visit their classroom; or host an international “sibling” with their families. Read one CPS student’s experience as a host and program volunteer.

Our youth partners and hosts also receive first notice when opportunities arise for Chicago youth to travel abroad on similar exchanges.

WorldChicago Youth Diplomats Program

In January 2016, WorldChicago launched Youth Diplomats, a new 8-month experiential learning program for 20 high school students from across the Chicagoland area focused on global issues, leadership training, and cross-cultural engagements with WorldChicago’s international exchange students. We meet once per month on a Saturday to explore topics such as peace-building, human rights, gender equality, and environmental sustainability; learn about the people, culture, and issues of sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America; and explore college and career options in diplomacy and international relations.

Visit the Youth Diplomats page for more details!

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR CHICAGO YOUTH

Check back for new opportunities this summer!

Before WorldChicago I wanted to be a lawyer. And after WorldChicago, I want to be an ambassador.

— Cortez Alexander, Chicago youth leader

Engaging with neighborhood schools.

WorldChicago is proud to work with local K-12 schools to bring global perspectives into Chicago classrooms. Our recent school partners include:

● Lindblom Math & Science Academy
● Naperville Central
● Walter Payton College Prep
Meet Tomorrow’s Leaders Today: Become a Homestay Host
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2018 Youth Leadership Programs


July 24–Aug 7: U.S.–Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program

July 20–July 22 -Saudi Young Leaders Exchange Program

Dates: To Be Determined - Jovenes en Accion (Youth In Action)

Dates: To Be Determined - UK-US Youth Dialogue Program

Interested in being a youth homestay host? Contact Brian Peckrill at 312.254.1800 x100 or bpeckrill@worldchicago.org.

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