We invite all high school students in DC, Maryland and Virginia for “The Young Cultural Ambassadors Program”.
Enrollment for the 2025-26 Young Cultural Ambassadors Program is now closed.
Thank you for your interest. See you for 2026-27 applications next year!
Young Cultural Ambassadors Program
The American Turkish Association of Washington, DC (ATA-DC) is excited to invite local high school students to apply for the 2025-2026 Young Cultural Ambassadors Program (YCAP).
If you’re eager to broaden your cultural horizons and make a meaningful impact in your community, this program is perfect for you!
About YCAP
Launched in 2017, YCAP engages a select group of high school students from the DC-MD-VA metropolitan area in a variety of fun, cultural, and educational activities designed to foster volunteerism and cross-cultural dialogue.
In 2020, the program transitioned to a hybrid format allowing more students to participate for an entire academic year with broadened curriculum on leadership.
In 2020, the YCAP became virtual and expanded nationally, To date, more than 200 students have reaped the benefits of this enriching program. Through the program, YCAs grew as leaders, gained hands-on experience through internships, and successfully earned admission to the colleges of their choice.
Program Highlights
This year, up to 50 high school students will have the opportunity to:
– Explore Turkish culture through engaging events and volunteer activities.
– Participate in virtual meetings with members of the Turkish-American and international communities, learning about various professions and building valuable networks.
– Join a hybrid program running from October to April, featuring both virtual activities and in-person events, including the DC Turkish Festival on Sunday, October 19, on Pennsylvania Avenue NW.
– Receive recognition on the ATA-DC and Turkish Festival websites, along with certificates of appreciation and community service hours.
Why Join?
This program offers an incredible opportunity for students interested in:
– Contributing to their communities through volunteer service.
– Developing communication and diplomacy skills.
– Enhancing leadership abilities through individual and team assignments and other program sessions and activities.
– Learning about different professions and their requirements.
– Making new friends while immersing themselves in Turkish culture through arts, crafts, dance, music, and more.
For questions & inquiries:
Contact YCA Program Coordinators at:
ycap@atadc.org
Program Requirements
Selected participants will be expected to:
Attend a virtual orientation on Tuesday, October 14, at 8:00 PM EST (for 1 hour).
Volunteer at the DC Turkish Festival on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Complete majority of the program curriculum, which includes participation in hybrid speaker sessions and individual and team assignments over six months.
The program requires a total commitment of approximately 30 hours from mid-October 2025 to May 2026, averaging about one hour per week.
All selected YCAs will be recognized on ATA-DC and Turkish Festival website and receive certificates of appreciation.
Important Information
Please note that this is an unpaid volunteer position, which may be approved by school administrations to be counted as part of community service hours.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must be currently attending high school
Must be a U.S. resident (DC-MD-VA or nearby states).
Must have reliable transportation to events, which will primarily be metro-accessible.
Turkish language skills or prior volunteering experience are NOT required!
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Türkçe