Spots Remain Open in Philly Teen Diplomats Program

In the Philadelphia area, a group of teen high school and middle school students is training as certified volunteers for the World Cup and America's 250th birthday celebrations through the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia's 2026 Youth Diplomats program. Spots are currently open for students interested in joining the program, as well as for organizations seeking volunteers to serve at upcoming events.

According to an Action News 6abc report, more than 3,000 students in southeastern Pennsylvania participate in World Affairs Council initiatives each year. 

Lauren Swartz, president and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, said she wants to help young people become active participants in the city's historic year of events.

"When we're hosting diplomats and delegations and heads of state, we want Philadelphia's young people to be at the table," Swartz told 6abc.

Participants like 11th-grader Elizabeth Bailey stress that youth involvement is essential for shaping the city's future and ensuring that the next generation leads major civic events. "I think it's really important for the youth to be a part of this because we're the next generation. If we're not a part of it, we're not going to know what to do when it's our turn to lead stuff," she told 6abc.

As part of their Youth Diplomats program training, students toured Lincoln Financial Field, learned about World Cup venues, and practiced international greetings, including the proper cheek-kiss etiquette used in France, as demonstrated by the Eagles mascot, Swoop.

View more information about the Youth Diplomats initiative on the World Affairs Council's website.