About the Program
Developing the Next Generation of Peacemakers
Young Peace Builders is a peacebuilding and educational initiative for high school students in New York City that focuses on leadership development and bridging opportunity gaps between high-income and under-resourced youth.
The program admits a yearly cohort of approximately 40 students, equipping them with research, writing, and public speaking skills through structured workshops, UN field trips, and one-on-one academic mentorship.
Participants draft policy papers each month on global issues such as conflict prevention, women's rights, extreme poverty, and environmental sustainability — and present their findings at the Annual Youth Leadership Forum alongside elected officials and UN Representatives.
Program Structure
What You'll Experience
Monthly Workshops
In-depth sessions on global issues including conflict prevention, women's rights, environmental sustainability, and interfaith coexistence — led by expert speakers and ambassadors.
Field Trips
Visits to the United Nations, Permanent Missions, museums, and partner institutions around NYC to connect learning to real-world diplomacy and civic life.
Leadership Forum
An annual Youth Leadership Forum brings participants together with elected officials, UN Representatives, and community leaders to present their research and perspectives.
Academic Mentorship
Each participant is paired with an academic mentor who supports their research, writing, and personal development throughout the program year.
Program History
Past Events & Highlights
Youth Leadership Forum
The flagship annual forum attracts elected officials, UN Representatives, and local high schools for a full-day symposium where participants present policy papers on global issues.
Peace Ambassadors Cohort
A cohort of 40 high school students from across NYC participated in monthly workshops covering interfaith coexistence, climate justice, and global partnership for development.
UN Field Trip & Mission Visits
Young Peace Builders visited UN Headquarters and several Permanent Missions, meeting diplomats and learning about multilateral peacebuilding in practice.
Monthly Workshop Series
Regular monthly workshops from September through August on rotating topics: interfaith coexistence, maternal health, HIV/AIDS, extreme poverty, environmental justice, and technology.
Notable Speakers
Who Has Addressed Our Youth
Ambassador Carlos Enrique Garcia Gonzales, Permanent Representative of El Salvador to the UN
Ambassador Morten Wetland, Permanent Representative of Norway to the UN
Ambassador Boonam Shin, Permanent Representative of South Korea to the UN
Senator Charles Schumer, United States Senator
Corey Booker, United States Senator
Bill Clinton, Former President of the United States