Civic Engagement Ambassadors Program

Many young people feel overwhelmed by global issues, personal problems, and a lack of support. We have identified younger generations usually facing feelings of hopelessness and disorientedness when looking for opportunities as a challenge to civic engagement. Addressing these issues is critical to empowering young individuals and uplifting disadvantaged communities in various national contexts.

Therefore, we propose the establishment of a Civic Engagement Ambassadors Program. Leveraging the IYTT Global Fellows Network, we aim to introduce personalized, localized civic mentorship for young individuals in diverse settings such as churches, shelters, and schools. These ambassadors will provide guidance on topics including application processes for opportunities, project development, and assessing potential civic challenges within their local contexts. Through this initiative, we seek to empower and support young people in seeing civic engagement as a meaningful and impactful pathway for involvement in their communities.

Program Overview

Ambassadors—who are part of the IYTT’s Global Fellows Network—will act as mentors in local communities. Their role will include:

• Sharing personal journeys in civic leadership and inspiring others to get involved
• Leading workshops and talks about how to make a difference in the community
• Helping young people with writing resumes, applying for opportunities, and planning projects
• Guiding youth to identify and access local opportunities (internships, volunteer work, scholarships, community initiatives, etc.)
• Providing referrals and assistance in finding services such as laptop and technology donation programs, food pantries, free educational resources and tutoring, mental health support, and youth counseling

Key Goals

• Establish a global civic mentorship program that supports young people in diverse communities
• Empower youth to take initiative through informed civic action and local leadership
• Bridge the opportunity gap for underserved or disadvantaged youth populations
• Foster resilient and equitable civic ecosystems by investing in the next generation of changemakers

Expected Outcomes

• A global network of youth mentors engaged in civic development
• Improved access to civic opportunities for underrepresented youth
• Increased number of youth-led initiatives addressing local challenges
• Strengthened local communities through informed and engaged civic participation
• Reductions in engagement barriers, such as lack of access to technology, basic needs, or guidance

While many young people are eager to create positive change, they often lack the guidance, resources, or support to take meaningful action. The Civic Engagement Ambassadors Program seeks to bridge that gap. By investing in youth through both civic mentorship and direct support, this initiative empowers the next generation to grow into resilient, active leaders. Together, we can build a fairer, more equitable, and engaged world—starting with today’s youth around the world.