Top Image Caption: World Affairs Council of Philadelphia launches its Youth Diplomats program, providing participants with special “Dipo-Passes,” Youth Diplomat T-shirts, and Eagles hats, made possible through the support and partnership of Firstrust Bank.
WORLD AFFAIRS: YOUTH PROGRAMS
The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia officially launched its Youth Diplomats program on Thursday, April 9, 2026, welcoming nearly 100 high school students from across the region to Lincoln Financial Field for a celebration.
The new initiative prepares students to serve as trained volunteers at major events tied to the 250th anniversary of the United States. Open to high school students throughout the Greater Philadelphia region, the program provides training in cultural diplomacy, Philadelphia history, the global significance of 2026, and best practices in civic engagement and volunteer service.
“Philadelphia will be on the global stage in 2026, and our Youth Diplomats will be at the forefront of that moment,” said Lauren Swartz, President & CEO, World Affairs. “These student volunteers will be prepared to welcome the world with knowledge, confidence and pride in their city. This program is about empowering the next generation to see themselves as global citizens and leaders, starting right here at home.”
Dr. Tony Watlington, Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia, and Peggy Leimkuhler, EVP, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer of Firstrust Bank, provided remarks, offering their encouragement and support to the students as they step up as Youth Diplomats.
During the event, students had the opportunity to connect with peers ahead of their formal training and learn more about volunteer opportunities taking place throughout the summer. As part of the launch, participants received their official Youth Diplomats T-shirt and took part in an interactive lesson on welcoming international guests alongside Philadelphia Eagles mascot Swoop – offering an early introduction to the role they will play in representing their city during this historic year.
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Request Youth Diplomats for Your 2026 Events
To request Youth Diplomats as volunteers for your 2026 programming, interested organizations can visit the World Affairs website under the Youth Diplomats section.
As the region’s largest and longest-running international nonprofit, World Affairs is committed to expanding access to global and civic education and leadership opportunities for the next generation of Philadelphians.
From powerful speaker events and international exchanges to youth education, to professional development and curated travel programs, World Affairs is where continents, cultures, and ideas connect.
Special thanks to our partners at the Philadelphia Semiquincentennial Funders Collaborative, America250PA, the City of Philadelphia, the School District of Philadelphia, Firstrust Bank, and PromoShop for making this experience possible.
Photos from the April 9 event are available here for download. Photo credit: Ryan Brandenberg.
Media inquiries, interview requests, and story-related questions may be directed to Heather Knopf, Director of Communications, at hknopf@wacphila.org or 267-802-1241.