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Request for Applications: Youth Ambassador Program (Papua New Guinea)

Deadline: 28-Feb-2026

The Youth Ambassadors – East Asia/Pacific (YA-EAP) Program is a fully funded leadership exchange for students aged 15–17 from Papua New Guinea and the Pacific. The program develops civic leadership, community engagement, and problem-solving skills through virtual preparation, a four-week U.S. exchange, and post-program community initiatives.

About the Program

The YA-EAP Program is a fully funded initiative designed to empower young leaders from East Asia and the Pacific. Participants gain practical experience in community engagement, civic leadership, and social inclusion, while exploring sub-themes such as environmental sustainability and conflict mitigation.

The program encourages youths to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills, and provides hands-on experience in planning and implementing community-based initiatives.

Program Structure

The YA-EAP program is delivered through three key components:

  1. Virtual Preparation Sessions: Online learning modules and workshops to build leadership knowledge and intercultural understanding.

  2. U.S. Exchange: A four-week in-person program scheduled from approximately May 3 to May 31, 2026, including:

    • Round-trip international airfare

    • Hotel accommodations

    • Group meals

    • Medical insurance during the exchange (excluding pre-existing conditions and dental care)

    • Group transportation

    • Cultural exchange and community activities
      Note: Costs for passport issuance or renewal, personal expenses, phone/internet use, souvenirs, or excess luggage are not covered.

  3. Post-Exchange Community Activities: Follow-on projects to apply lessons learned and implement positive changes in participants’ local communities.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be students aged 15–17.

  • Demonstrate strong academic achievement.

  • Show leadership potential and active involvement in community or school initiatives.

  • Be proficient in English.

  • Be motivated to create positive change and represent Papua New Guinea or Pacific communities.

Selection also considers:

  • Geographic diversity within the region

  • Social inclusion

  • Gender balance

Learning Outcomes

Participants can expect to:

  • Deepen their understanding of community engagement practices in the United States.

  • Enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills.

  • Gain experience in planning and implementing community-based initiatives.

  • Connect with global peers to explore shared challenges, values, and solutions.

  • Reflect on practices at individual, community, corporate, and global levels that improve Pacific Island wellbeing.

Application Process

  1. Complete the online application form by February 28, 2026.

  2. Provide evidence of academic performance, leadership experience, and English proficiency.

  3. Submit any required letters of recommendation or supporting documents as specified in the application portal.

  4. Wait for selection notifications and follow instructions for virtual preparation sessions prior to the U.S. exchange.

FAQs

1. Who can apply? Students aged 15–17 from Papua New Guinea or Pacific Island communities with strong academics, leadership experience, and English proficiency.
2. What does the program cover? Round-trip airfare, accommodation, group meals, group transportation, medical insurance, and cultural exchange activities during the U.S. program.
3. What expenses are not covered? Passport renewal/issuance, personal expenses, phone/internet costs, souvenirs, and excess luggage.
4. When is the U.S. exchange? Approximately May 3 to May 31, 2026.
5. Is post-exchange participation required? Yes, participants engage in community follow-on projects applying what they learned.
6. What are the selection criteria? Academic achievement, leadership potential, community engagement, English proficiency, geographic diversity, social inclusion, and gender balance.
7. What is the application deadline? February 28, 2026.

Conclusion

The YA-EAP Program 2026 offers a transformative opportunity for young leaders in East Asia and the Pacific to gain international exposure, develop civic leadership skills, and implement community initiatives. By participating, youths enhance their personal development, contribute to sustainable social change, and strengthen regional and global networks for positive impact.

For more information, visit U.S. Embassy in Papua New Guinea.