Global Issues Symposium for Youth motivates young people to become global leaders

Did you know that since 1990, nearly 50 million people have been driven from their homes as a result of war and more than two million children have been killed in armed conflicts? From preventable diseases to separation from family members and friends, each day millions of vulnerable children and adults across the world are forced to deal with the awful consequences of armed conflict.

While you may feel powerless to stop these circumstances from occurring, there are ways that you can reach out and affect positive change for those in need.

Offered by the Canadian Red Cross, the Youth Training in Action (TAP) Program provides young people with the tools to correct social injustices on an international scale and bring hope to those who have lost so much due to violence, natural disasters, disease and other life-altering situations.

By becoming active citizens of the global community, participants in the program don't just gain valuable abilities on how to organize and provide outreach services - they engage with the world at-large.

The program, which began in 1996, mobilizes young people, teachers and youth leaders to find creative and inspirational solutions to some of the world's most pressing humanitarian concerns.

This eye-opening and unique experience can help young people who are passionate about civic involvement build lifelong friendships and gain vital leadership skills by attending training workshops on public speaking, global issues and conflict mediation.

In addition, global workshops and special training events can help young people tap into their innate potential to become the leaders of today.

Held annually over a four-day period, the Global Issues Symposium for Youth could be your opportunity to confront challenging global issues and develop a deep-seated empathy for vulnerable persons throughout the world. By engaging in role-plays, simulations and other activities, the Symposium places real tools in the hands of young people to carry back to their communities and enact real, substantive change.

The 28th annual Symposium will be held from November 9 through November 12 at the Timberline Ranch Camp in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, and is open to approximately 90 young people in the area. Issues on human rights, international law, refugees, landmines and cluster munitions, food security, HIV/AIDS and social justice will be covered during the event.

For more information on the program and how to apply, please contact Christina Gonzalez at symposium@redcross.ca or contact your local Red Cross office today!