Global Ties KC connects international emerging leaders in a variety of fields with their Midwest counterparts for the purpose of forging lasting relationships that may one day become a powerful tool for addressing some of our biggest global challenges. While in Kansas and Missouri, we provide international visitors with opportunities to cultivate deeper connections and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
For almost 70 years, Global Ties KC has facilitated citizen diplomacy in both Kansas and Missouri and provided our communities with opportunities to interact with other cultures. A special focus is placed on the next generation of leaders for whom we empower by hosting youth exchanges and our Youth Diplomats program.
Global Ties KC connects international emerging leaders in a variety of fields with their Midwest counterparts for the purpose of forging lasting relationships that may one day become a powerful tool for addressing some of our biggest global challenges. While in Kansas and Missouri, we provide international visitors with opportunities to cultivate deeper connections and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
For almost 70 years, Global Ties KC has facilitated citizen diplomacy in both Kansas and Missouri and provided our communities with opportunities to interact with other cultures. A special focus is placed on the next generation of leaders for whom we empower by hosting youth exchanges and our Youth Diplomats program.
Youth Diplomats Explore Leadership and Civic Engagement in Phoenix, Arizona
Five students from our Heartland Youth Diplomats Institute were selected from a competitive pool of applicants to travel to Arizona for an immersive student leadership exchange. During the multi-day visit, students collaborated with their peers from Global Ties Arizona’s Young Diplomats program while strengthening their leadership and civic engagement skills. They engaged in high-level meetings with public officials to broaden their understanding of Arizona’s politics, public services, and resources. Youth Diplomats also experienced events and landmarks that explored the region’s landscape and culture.
Rachel Yanof inspiring Youth Diplomats during the Leadership and Civic Engagement Workshop in Phoenix, Arizona.
Day One: Leadership, Legislation & Connection
The exchange began with a Leadership and Civic Engagement Workshop led by Rachel Yanof, whose session was informative and genuinely inspiring to all in attendance. Her insights helped set the tone for a powerful experience centered on personal growth, student leadership and community impact.
After the workshop, students enjoyed lunch at The Churchill, a locally focused community gathering space in the heart of Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row Arts District. This stop provided a relaxed environment to connect and reflect.
Youth Diplomats learned about Arizona’s legislative process with Representative Justin Wilmeth.
In the afternoon, the group ventured to the Arizona State Capitol for an entertaining and educational tour of the Museum and an enlightening meeting with State Representative Justin Wilmeth. He offered an engaging overview of Arizona’s international trade landscape and political culture. Rep. Wilmeth also gave a snapshot of what it’s like to be a State Representative with a private tour of the House Chamber. Students loved seeing all the politicians’ desks and the lounge!
Building friendships with Arizona’s Young Diplomats at Bowlero in Old Town Scottsdale.
That meeting was a hard act to follow, but Heartland Youth Diplomats ended their first day on an even higher note – bowling, pizza, and arcade fun at Bowlero in Old Town Scottsdale with Global Ties Arizona’s Young Diplomats.
Giving back to the community through volunteer service at St. Vincent de Paul.
Day Two: Community Impact and Cultural Exploration
On the second and last day in the Phoenix area, the focus shifted to service. Youth Diplomats spent the day serving the community and admiring the local ecosystem. Students volunteered alongside some of Arizona’s Young Diplomats at The Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Phoenix. They packed boxes of food for those in need and connected with local community members to better understand the importance of civic responsibility and compassion.
After a healthy and scrumptious post-volunteering lunch at The Original ChopShop and a little jaunt to find souvenirs around Old Town Scottsdale, we meandered through the beautiful and vast desert oasis at The Desert Botanical Gardens. Youth Diplomats were blown away as the colorful desert landscape offered a surprising display of biodiversity that many had never seen before.
The final evening in Arizona was a truly memorable one thanks to an elegant meal at Fellow Osteria, card games and palling around in the hotel lobby—and a surprise celebrity sighting! Yung Gravy graciously took photos and chatted with Global Ties KC’s Youth Diplomats. This chance meeting was no doubt the highlight of the trip for several Youth Diplomats in attendance, enhancing an exchange so thoughtfully curated in collaboration with Global Ties Arizona where life-long memories and connections were made by all.
Real Growth for Emerging Leaders
Most of our travelers had never before journeyed outside their home states! This trip provided our Heartland Youth Diplomats a deeper understanding of their capacity for taking on leadership roles and their core values.
As student Johnas reflected:
This trip was very helpful to find out what I really believe in. I was able to find out my morals and learn some leadership skills in the process. I was very excited when we had the chance to meet the state representative. This trip was very enjoyable, and I would do it again if I had the chance.
Thank You to Our Partners
Thank you to the Global Ties Arizona team for your help curating an enriching program for both our youth programs! This student diplomacy exchange offered a meaningful chance to connect, learn, and gain insight into leadership and civic engagement.
At Global Ties KC, we remain committed to youth leadership development, civic engagement, and programs that empower students to see themselves as future leaders. Experiences like these help shape the next generation of citizen diplomats—and we’re just getting started!
