World Learning Youth Programs is now accepting applications for Youth Program Leaders for the Summer 2026 season. This role offers a unique professional opportunity to mentor international high school students during transformative leadership and peacebuilding exchanges. Programs take place across the United States and, in select cases, at international locations.
Professional Youth Leadership Training and Exchange
Each year, World Learning facilitates experiential learning for over 1,000 youth globally. Our programs combine leadership development, cultural exchange, and community engagement. Program Leaders are essential to this mission, guiding diverse groups of teens through intensive educational curricula.
About World Learning Summer Programs
World Learning’s summer initiatives are designed to foster global citizenship through several key components:
- Leadership Exchanges: Short-term programs focused on peacebuilding and civics.
- Experiential Workshops: Hands-on learning regarding global issues and cross-cultural communication.
- Community Projects: Supporting students as they design impactful projects for their home communities.
- Domestic and International Travel: Programs often include U.S. homestays and a capstone segment in Washington, D.C.
The Role of a Youth Program Leader
Program Leaders are responsible for both the educational success and the operational safety of the exchange. Key responsibilities include:
- Facilitation: Delivering dynamic workshops on leadership, arts, and civic engagement.
- Participant Support: Monitoring group dynamics, providing emotional support, and managing conflict mediation.
- Logistics: Coordinating transportation, budgeting, and representing World Learning in host communities.
- Safety: Ensuring the total wellbeing of participants while living in shared dormitory settings.
Applicant Qualifications and Requirements
World Learning seeks resilient, collaborative individuals with a deep commitment to social justice and intercultural understanding.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Experience: Proven history of working with high school students in teaching, mentoring, or camp settings.
- Skills: Strong public speaking and facilitation abilities with high emotional intelligence.
- Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years old by June 1, 2026.
- Certifications: Valid U.S. driver’s license and First Aid/CPR certification (required by June 1).
- Eligibility: Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available.
Compensation and Career Benefits
Successful candidates receive a salary ranging from $3,000 to $4,500, depending on the specific role and program duration. Benefits include:
- Full housing and meals during training and program dates.
- Round-trip domestic travel to staff training.
- Reimbursement for CPR/First Aid certification costs (up to $105).
- Eligibility for a $10,000 scholarship toward an SIT Graduate Institute Global Master’s degree.
Application Timeline and Deadlines
The selection process follows a strict timeline to ensure all staff are onboarded and trained by mid-June:
- Final Application Deadline: January 29, 2026 (11:59 PM EST).
- Interviews and Selection: February through April 2026.
- Mandatory Staff Training: Mid-to-late June 2026.
- Program Implementation: July and August 2026.
How to Apply for Summer 2026
Interested candidates should submit their online application before the January 29 deadline. For specific inquiries regarding the position or the application process, please email [email protected].