Youth Diplomats
This free, eight-month leadership program connects Chicago-area high school students with global peers and local leaders through cross-cultural conversations, workshops, and volunteer activities.
This free, eight-month leadership program connects Chicago-area high school students with global peers and local leaders through cross-cultural conversations and workshops, career exploration, global skill-building, and volunteer activities. Open to freshmen, sophomores, and juniors from public, private, and charter schools in Chicago and the suburbs, the program fosters global understanding and civic engagement.
Participants meet monthly—virtually or in person—for hands-on learning and collaborations with organizations or professionals that have a global footprint. The program culminates in a trip to either Washington, D.C. or Springfield, IL, to explore government-led public diplomacy and intercultural exchange. Priority for the trip is based on attendance, participation, and engagement.
If you have any questions, concerns, requests, or special notes regarding your application, please email Michael Ma, Program Coordinator, at ma@worldchicago.org.
The 2026 Youth Diplomats application has closed.
Activating the Next Generation of Global Citizens
Students discover college and career options, network with global experts, and do service projects with an international impact. The students also learn about the people, culture, and issues from global peers.
“When I first joined the WorldChicago Youth Diplomat Program, I had a narrow view of what diplomacy meant. I envisioned politics, world leaders, and high-stakes negotiations. However, as the program progressed, I realized that diplomacy could be practiced in more casual and comprehensive ways. Conversations and experiences shared with diverse community leaders showed me that change doesn’t always stem from grand political statements. I am excited to return to learn more and further broaden my perspectives on citizen diplomacy. I want to continue exploring foreign affairs, attend workshops, and discuss community involvement."
YU LI, YOUTH DIPLOMAT ALUMNI
Learn More
For questions and more information about the program, please email Michael Ma, Program Coordinator at ma@worldchicago.org
Young Global Citizens Initiative™ (YGCI)
YGCI brings global citizenship education to younger students as a pathway to Youth Diplomats in high school. Part of WorldChicago’s Youth Diplomats program, which has served hundreds of students from 58+ Chicago high schools since 2015.
Interested in bringing YGCI to your school or organization?
Contact us at: info@worldchicago.org
Program Overview:
The Young Global Citizens Initiative™ (YGCI) is a 10-session, curriculum-based program designed to empower youth with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes necessary to success in a global context. Throughout three engaging modules, high school students will explore the intricacies of diplomacy, develop a global mindset, and learn how to address global challenges both locally and internationally. These sessions will culminate in an outbound exchange to an internationally selected location where students will put into practice their acquired
YGCI Learning Objectives:
Develop a comprehensive understanding of diplomacy, global competencies, and the roles of various international actors
Enhance cross-cultural communication skills and foster empathy and responsibility as global citizens
Analyze and address global challenges by applying practical solutions and creating personal action plans
Establish high school career plans with greater insight into the international professional ecosystem
Establish a base for identification of soft and hard skills needed for a global economy and workforce through career exploration and readiness training
