Applications are now open for the Fourth Annual Global Youth Ambassadors Leadership Summit, taking place from July 20–27, 2019. In partnership with the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), the summit encourages teenage girls ages 14–16 to become active leaders in their communities and develop solutions to the challenges that girls face around the world.

“The Global Youth Ambassadors Leadership Summit is one of our centerpiece programs in creating inclusive opportunities for the next generation,” said Andrea Zopp, president and CEO of World Business Chicago. “It is a unique opportunity for teenage girls from Chicago and across the globe to share their cultures and build relationships, while also empowering them to be leaders in their own communities.”

Applicants must apply at ChicagoSisterCities.com by February 4, 2019, and meet the following criteria:

• Reside in or attend school in Chicago or one of its 28 sister cities (see below for full list)
• Have a good command of the English language (no interpretation services will be provided)
• Have an interest in international relations, leadership, advocacy, activism, or gender studies
• Be willing to participate in an online exchange with fellow awardees before and after the Summit
• International students must attend with a teacher chaperone

There is no cost for participants or chaperones to take part in the summit. CSCI coordinates and pays for all expenses to attend the summit, including flights, visas, and accommodations at UIC dorms.

“Chicago Sister Cities International created the Global Youth Ambassadors Leadership Summit in 2016 to inspire young women to become agents of change and build a network of globally-minded leaders from Chicago and around the world,” said Leroy Allala, executive director of CSCI. “We look forward to welcoming our next class of youth ambassadors in 2019 to participate in this unparalleled opportunity.”

Since 2016, 70 girls have participated in the summit, representing 18 Chicago schools and 19 of Chicago’s sister cities. Participants work hand-in-hand, experiencing workshops, discussions, and presentations on advocacy, activism, and leadership, giving them the tools to be leaders who create positive change in the world. During the week-long program, they meet with women leaders in Chicago representing a diverse cross-section of industries who share their personal stories and provide advice on being an effective leader.

For more information on the summit, and to see its past programming, please visit ChicagoSisterCities.com.