Apply Today!
PRIORITY dEADLINE: sEPTEMBER 1
ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS
High school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors for the 2026-2027 academic year are invited to apply for a place in the Youth Diplomats Institute. Applications will be accepted from homeschooled, public, private, and charter high school students. There is no fee to participate in this program.
Requirements: Must be able to travel to various locations across the Kansas City Metro.
The Ideal Candidate: Global Ties KC looks for students of the highest maturity level, who have a deep and intrinsic excitement for the program and personal development. They look forward to the sessions, prioritize the program, and stay connected far past the YDI experience. They are open to new experiences and a flexible problem solver.
SELECTION PROCESS
Space is limited. Students will be selected based on:
- Proven leadership in the community (e.g., school clubs, volunteering, activism, or independent projects)
- Interest in global affairs (past experiences not required, but should demonstrate interest)
- Evidence of active participation and full commitment to the program
- Ability to use the program content to better themselves or community.
- Only three students per school are eligible
Please include an email address you check regularly, and be sure to check it for a notification from us in October to determine your selection status. Non-school affiliated emails are encouraged.
In Person Interview Dates: September 19-20 / October 3-4
Virtual Interview Dates: October 5-7
PROGRAM DATES & TIMES (subject to change)
Required Virtual Orientation: Wednesday, October 14, 7:00 – 8:00 pm
Optional Meet and Greet Outing: Tuesday, October 20, 5:00-7:00 pm
Required Saturday Sessions:
- October 24, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- November 21, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- December 12, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- January 16, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- February 13, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- March 13, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- April 17, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
- May 8, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Students who complete the program successfully will be eligible to apply for future travel excursions, which may require partial payment. Travel opportunities are open to all Youth Diplomat alumni since 2019 who have successfully completed the program.
Questions?
Email Sarah Lowderman, Program Director, at slowderman@globaltieskc.org with any questions.
