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YOUTH DIPLOMATS INSTITUTE

Activating the Next Generation of Global Leaders

Applications Open Summer 2026 - Fill Out the Interest Form Here

Equipping students for success

The Youth Diplomats Institute (YDI) is a selective, school year-long leadership and career development experience for high school students who want to think globally and lead locally. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world exposure to international issues and careers, students gain the confidence and skills to step boldly into their futures.

Hosted by Global Ties KC, YDI connects students to Kansas City’s global leaders, organizations, and opportunities — building a pipeline of informed, engaged young professionals invested in our region’s future.

Over 200 Alumni

From Over 60 schools

In 18 Counties

Why It Matters

Grow your professional confidence. Expand your world. Shape your future - right here in Kansas City.

Kansas City is a global city — from international business and diplomacy to ethnic diaspora and global nonprofits. YDI helps students see how global issues connect to local opportunities. By the end of the program, students will:

  • Feel more confident speaking in professional settings through real world experiences.
  • Understand how to build meaningful cross-cultural relationships.
  • Have tangible career tools and connections.
  • Join an alumni network of globally minded leaders.

Coming from a poor, rural area, YDI has presented me with invaluable opportunities to learn professional skills, become involved with diplomacy, and to network with the nation’s future leaders. My time with Global Ties has greatly expanded my professional network and global outlook, but it has also given me amazing friends, mentors, and experiences. ​

Andrew Shelton, Former Youth Diplomat and Advisory Council President

Overview of the Program

Activities and Experiences
  • Participate in interactive diplomacy simulations​
  • Build cultural intelligence and global relationship skills​
  • Learn networking and professional communication strategies​
  • Create and refine a LinkedIn profile and personal brand​
  • Engage in speed mentoring with Kansas City professionals​
  • Explore global career pathways rooted in Kansas City​
  • Design and present a capstone project addressing a real-world challenge​
  • and so much more!
Program Structure

Cohort Size: 25 students, maximum 3 students per school

Format: Monthly in-person Saturday sessions (October–May)

Growth Opportunities: Capstone Project Showcase (May 2027), growth tracking journals, student 3-minue speeches, and student-led upcoming events updates.

Mentorship & Professional Engagement: Youth Diplomat Alumni Mentors, consistent networking during sessions, and skill-building

Opportunities After Completing the Program

Graduating from the Youth Diplomats Institute is just the beginning. Alumni become part of an ongoing network of globally minded students and young leaders connected through Global Ties KC.

After completing the program, students can apply to join the Youth Diplomat Advisory Board, where alumni help shape future programs, mentor new cohorts, and take on leadership roles within the YDI community.

Alumni may also apply for special travel opportunities throughout the year. Each year, a small group of Youth Diplomats travels to Washington, D.C. to explore careers in diplomacy and international affairs, meet professionals working in the field, and experience the nation’s capital. Additional alumni trips in past years have included cities like Chicago and Phoenix, offering opportunities to expand networks and explore global careers in different U.S. hubs.

Students graduate with new skills, new mentors, and a clearer vision for their future.

Application Process

Who Should Apply?
  • High school students (grades 9–12 in the 2026-2027 school year)
  • Curious, motivated learners, who are dedicated to personal improvement
  • Young people who will capitalize on the program to stand out in college and career pathways

You do not need prior international experience to apply — just a willingness to learn and engage.

Application Timeline

June 2026

September 1

September 27

October 3-4

October 5-9

October 14

Application Opens – Interest Form Available

Priority Deadline

Application Deadline

Interviews (in-person) *Preferred

Interviews (virtual)

Participants Announced via Email

Fill Out an Interest Form Here

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Be open and curious about people and cultures, and

2. Be a Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior in high school throughout the full program.

There is no GPA or cost requirement for this program. Global Ties KC is looking for active participation and students who are passionate about claiming their role as citizen diplomats. This is a selective program, requiring evidence of active participation. Only three students will be allowed in per school.

Yes, all participants are required to be in-person at every meeting. Virtual options are not available 2026-2027. Locations are throughout the KC Metropolitan Area, typically centering around downtown Kansas City.

YDI helps you build real-world skills that make you stand out for college and future careers — like networking, communication, leadership, and working across cultures. You’ll strengthen your resume through a capstone project, mentorship from Kansas City professionals, and hands-on experiences with global issues.

You will also obtain exclusive access to travel opportunities

One Saturday per month, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (lunch provided by Global Ties KC).

Tentative Dates:October 22 (Zoom), October 24, November 21, December 12, January 16, February 13, March 13, April 17, May 8 

  • Attending all 8 sessions
  • Actively participate and communicate with staff – be a part of the team!
  • Complete a program capstone presentation that addresses a real world issue in your community. This will include time required outside of program session, with time dedicated at every session for direct mentorship and support in the process.

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