✔️ International Affairs Seminar

Hear from expert speakers working in leading global organizations and learn about international topics. Share your viewpoints and ask questions on pertinent global issues in an interactive setting.

✔️ Skills for Effective Negotiations Workshop

Learn skills for negotiating as young leaders.

✔️ Dare to Lead: Unlock Your Leadership Potential Workshop

Discover your strengths and grow as a young leader.

✔️ Model United Nations Diplomacy Simulation

Work in teams to represent a country in addressing a global challenge as you formulate recommendations and resolutions for issues such as sustainable development, poverty, conflict resolution, and human rights. Engage in procedures similar to a United Nations Security Council debate and resolution processes.

✔️ United Nations Guided Tour

Explore the UN headquarters in NYC to learn about the history and work of the United Nations over the years. Engage with the tour guide to ask questions on important global events taking place in the headquarters.

✔️ Permanent Mission Visit & Briefing

Learn first hand the work of a Country’s  Permanent Mission to the UN towards achieving the SDGs together with diplomats.

✔️ AFS Global Competence Certificate Program

Develop essential and lifelong global “power skills”: collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving, cross-cultural communication, open-mindedness and flexibility with this award-winning certificate program.

✔️ Social Event

Celebrate new friendships and enjoy one of the greatest cities in the world – a most memorable experience for participants.

 Co-Founder and Chief Policy, Impact, and Government Affairs Officer, Global Citizen

Michael Sheldrick is a co-founder of Global Citizen and a leading advocate for ending extreme poverty and building climate resilience. He has worked with numerous international artists and political leaders to produce impactful social campaigns and events. He is a respected speaker and author on policy advocacy, sustainable development, and corporate responsibility. His personal journey and commitment to policy change have driven his career, leading him to secure significant commitments from governments and businesses to address global challenges.

Professor Emeritus, United Nations-mandated University for Peace (UPEACE)

Dr. Amr Abdalla is a Professor Emeritus at the United Nations-mandated University for Peace (UPEACE). He has held positions at the Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS), SALAM Institute for Peace and Justice, and George Mason University. He has extensive experience in conflict analysis and resolution, having taught graduate classes and conducted training, research, and evaluations of peacebuilding programs globally. He has also been a prominent figure in promoting inter-faith dialogue and cross-cultural understanding.

Assistant Vice President, MUFG Bank Ltd. (Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group)

Lodoe Gyatso is a young professional with a background in international human rights, global anti-financial crime compliance, sanctions advisory, and risk management. He has worked with major financial institutions like MUFG and Deutsche Bank on financial crime compliance and risk management. He has also served as a Youth Representative to the United Nations, advocating for youth participation in peace and security. Additionally, he has worked with the United States Department of State on the role of civil society in peace processes.

Adjunct Professor, Seton Hall University

Dr. Purnaka L. de Silva is an Adjunct Professor at Seton Hall University, Director of the Institute for Strategic Studies and Democracy (ISSD) Malta, and Senior Policy Advisor at Lead Integrity. He has over 30 years of experience in diplomacy, mediation, and negotiation, specializing in complex emergencies and civil wars. His expertise includes political violence, counterterrorism, and transnational security. He has taught at universities in the US and Northern Ireland, and his current research focuses on human trafficking, forced migration, and terrorism in Libya, sub-Saharan Africa, and Europe.

Chief Organization Development & Strategy Officer, AFS Intercultural Programs

Lucas is a seasoned executive business leader with over 20 years of experience in developing and managing global programs that promote positive social impact through intercultural education and exchange. He directs global organization strategy, organization development, and network alignment for 60 AFS organizations worldwide. Lucas has a strong academic background in organizational behavior, learning, leadership, innovation, and social psychology. He holds the title of Doctor of Education (EdD) from New York University (NYU), in Organizational Behavior and Learning, Leadership and Innovation.

• Participation in the full leadership program
• Double accommodation for 5 nights in New York City (check in February 12, check out February 16, 2025)
• Breakfast on February 13-16 and some meals
• Networking opportunities
• Welcome reception at AFS Intercultural Programs
• Social event
• Ground transportation as required during the official program
• Official certificate issued by AFS Intercultural Programs

• Travel expenses to and from New York City
• Visa application and fees (if applicable)
• Travel/healthcare insurance
• Personal incidentals and expenses
• Transportation outside the programs

🚩 This is a standalone certificate program. To join the AFS Youth Assembly in August 2025, please submit your application here.