2026 Youth Leadership Summit: Apply Now
We are looking for local high school students in La Cañada to participate in the 2026 Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C. Students aged 14-18 in grades 9th-11th are eligible to participate. The application deadline is February 14.
Students will engage in hands-on activities, explore the vibrant city of Washington, D.C. and participate in a Diplomacy Simulation led by the U.S. Department of State, National Museum for American Diplomacy. The 2026 Youth Leadership Summit includes sessions and activities with participants from across the globe and is designed to engage future leaders and expose them to important global challenges—inspiring a new generation of citizens, diplomats, and volunteers to become instrumental in promoting peace, mutual respect, and prosperity. The main goal of the summit is to prepare students with leadership and professional development skills to enable their successes and growth in the global community.
Join us from June 21-27, 2026 in Washington, D.C. for an unforgettable week of leadership training, diplomacy insights, and cultural activities.
KEY DETAILS:
When: June 21-27, 2026
Where: American University, with lodging in their dorms.
Cost: The 2026 Youth Leadership Summit fee is $1,995, plus airfare. This price covers lodging, cultural activities, and transportation within Washington, D.C. during the event. La Cañada Sisters Cities is offering a $400 scholarship to reduce the fee, but does require a $100 membership fee & some volunteer hours with our local Sister Cities program.
Contact: Please reach out to Mrs. Denise Gunter at rgunter3@yahoo.com for more information, with any questions, and for the application link. A 30-minute interview with Mrs. Gunter is required to apply, along with a teacher and Sister Cities recommendation letter and a one-minute introduction video from the applicant.
Deadline to apply: February 14, 2026
Additional info: See the Sister Cities International website for more details on the Youth Leadership Summit.