Featured Program
Youth Leadership. Global Diplomacy.
Our flagship international program connects Pasadena's youth with peers around the world through summits, exchanges, and shared civic projects — building the next generation of global leaders.
Featured Program
Developing Tomorrow's Global Leaders
The Youth Leadership Program connects Pasadena's students with peers across our sister cities through immersive cultural exchange, hands-on diplomacy training, and shared civic projects.
Participants build real leadership skills — public speaking, collaboration, and cross-cultural communication — while forming friendships that often last a lifetime. Every cohort represents Pasadena on the world stage.
- Leadership Skills
- Cultural Exchange
- International Friendship
- Civic Engagement
What You'll Experience
Program Highlights
International Conferences
Attend global youth summits alongside delegates from our sister cities around the world.
Student Exchanges
Travel abroad to live, learn, and connect with host families in one of our partner cities.
Leadership Workshops
Build public speaking, teamwork, and civic-planning skills through hands-on training sessions.
Community Service Projects
Give back locally and abroad through service projects that strengthen sister-city bonds.
The Journey
How the Program Works
Apply
Submit your application and a short statement of interest.
Interview & Selection
Meet with our committee to discuss your goals and fit for the program.
Participate in Exchange
Join a delegation, workshop series, or international exchange trip.
Become a Youth Ambassador
Represent Pasadena and mentor the next cohort of participants.
The Impact
Why Join the Program?
Global Perspective
See the world through new eyes and rethink what's possible.
Leadership Experience
Practice real decision-making and team leadership skills.
International Networking
Build connections with peers across our sister cities.
Cultural Understanding
Gain firsthand appreciation for traditions beyond your own.
Public Speaking
Present confidently in front of diverse, international audiences.
Lifelong Friendships
Form bonds with fellow ambassadors that last well beyond the program.
In Their Words
What Our Ambassadors Say
This program completely changed how I see the world. I learned to lead a team, speak in front of strangers, and see my own community through someone else's eyes.
Maya Chen
2024 Youth Ambassador
I made friends across three continents. The workshops gave me the confidence to run for student council — something I never imagined before this exchange.
Daniel Reyes
2023 Youth Ambassador
Living with a host family abroad taught me more about diplomacy than any classroom ever could. I still talk to my host sister every week.
Priya Nair
2022 Youth Ambassador
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
The program is open to Pasadena-area students interested in leadership, cultural exchange, and civic engagement. No prior sister-city involvement is required.
Is there an age requirement?
Most cohorts are open to students ages 14–18, though some workshops and local events welcome younger participants. Check each program cycle for specific age ranges.
Are travel expenses covered?
Some exchanges include partial funding or fundraising support, while others require participants to cover travel costs. Full details are shared during the interview stage.
How long does the program last?
Program length varies — workshops run for a single season, while international exchanges can range from one to three weeks abroad, plus ongoing ambassador responsibilities.
Do I need previous leadership experience?
Not at all. The program is designed to build leadership skills from the ground up — enthusiasm and curiosity matter more than prior experience.
How do I register?
Click "Become a Participant" above to start your application, or visit our Membership Application page to get started today.
Ready to Represent Pasadena on the Global Stage?
Join a community of young leaders building friendships and futures across borders. Your next chapter as a global citizen starts here.