The Young Ambassadors Programme goes online

The Young Ambassadors Programme (YAP) went online for the first time this summer, after six years of continuous growth and development and a pause in 2020 for reflection and adjustment to the new realities of the pandemic.  

The new format put the rich experience accumulated by the organizing team to the test. How could we stay true to our objectives? How could we give our participants a similar experience to that of those who have met in person at the beautiful Caux Palace? How could we build community, trust and a safe space on different online platforms? How could we enable young people to connect, share, learn, be inspired and gain confidence in their newly acquired skills? Creativity, flexibility and close teamwork brought all the answers that were needed.  

I have gained useful tools to explore / understand / reflect upon my own attitudes and actions.

YAP 2021 ran from 9 July until 29 August and featured live online sessions, community platforms, collaborative tools and communication groups. Over 60 participants, from a wide diversity of countries and cultures, took part. They all wanted to discover ways in which they could take an active role in transforming society. 

The programme explored the dynamic relationship between personal and global change, created space for the exchange of experiences and for reflection, and encouraged focused action. The facilitators adapted their methodology to work online. The participants even found a way to have virtual celebration of their cultures and diversity! 

It was very motivating for me to see so many engaged young people around the world.

When the participants were asked what they had gained from the programme, they said: problem- solving skills, critical thinking, active listening, empathy and understanding, listening with purpose, technical tools to share and visualize opinions, leadership skills, diverse perspectives on key global and national issues, respect in diversity, acceptance of different points of view, knowledge and appreciation of other cultures.

On 26 November this year’s participants had the opportunity to meet YAP alumni in two networking sessions. Several talked about their current social concerns, and about the projects and organizations they are part of.

YAP 2021 was a wonderful growing opportunity for all involved, including the team, who now feel even more confident about organizing future YAP iterations, whether online or in person. 

I feel my emotional quotient and understanding of individual and group behaviour has increased after attending the sessions.

This year’s programme was the result of a partnership between Initiatives of Change Switzerland, Initiatives of Change UK, Initiatives of Change Netherlands, Initiatives of Change Denmark, the Centre for Social Transformation Romania, Foundations for Freedom Ukraine and Initiative Mittel- und Osteuropa e.V. It was made possible by the generous support of Movetia who have been a partner of the programme since 2018. 

What other participants said

Thoughtful, collaborative, challenging, in depth. The international attendance and perspectives present in the room were so valuable.

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Life-changing, participatory and perspectives-broadening.

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Useful self-introspection and connections building.

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A global platform for aspiring professionals to connect and share their expertise.

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A brilliant opportunity to foster your emotional intelligence.

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A great programme. Worth spending and investing time in. Interesting topics. Great speakers. Perfect organization.

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Fruitful safe learning journey. Experiential learning space.