SCI: Programs and Services

Sister Cities International Youth Conference 2009

Bridging Differences: Building a Peaceful Future

Youth delegates participating in the human knot

July 28-August 2, 2009
Belfast, Northern Ireland

Young citizen diplomats from around the world gathered in Belfast, Northern Ireland to learn what it means to be a global citizen in an ever changing world!

Activities

In Belfast, youth delegates:

Met young people from around the world.
Participated in challenging group activities, teambuilding exercises, and a multi-country simulation.
Engaged in thought provoking discussions about peacebuilding will other delegates as well as renowned practitioners in the field.
Gained tangible leadership skills.
Learned how to make the Sister Cities International mission of Peace through People a reality.

2009 Youth Conference participants ready for an outing with their staff leader

Schedule

View the schedule at a glance for more details.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Registration
Dinner
Orientation
Welcome Workshop
Welcome Social

Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Small Group Workshop: Conflict Explored
Large Group Workshop: What's Your Style?
Group Activity: The Past Meets the Future: City tour of Belfast
Reception at Stormont
Game Night at the Ice Bowl

Thursday, July 30, 2009
Small Group Workshop: What's Your Style?
Large Group Workshop: Peace in Action
Sightseeing Adventure: Castle Tour and Dinner

Friday, July 31, 2009
Small Group Workshop: "Crisis" Simulation Phase 1
Workshops at the Adult Conference
Cultural Showcase

Saturday, August 1, 2009
Large Group Workshop: "Crisis" Simulation Phase II
Large Group Workshop: "Crisis" Simulation Lessons Learned
Farewell Party and Dance

Sunday, August 2, 2009
Check-out and Departure

Youth Delegate Testimonies:

"The week was a super fantastic time. Lots of fun and new information and quite a learning experience. Thanks very much for a grand week."
"It has allowed me to grow as a person and be taught a lot of valuable skills especially in regards to the futility of racism and prejudice. In the words of Patrick Swayze "I've had the time of my life".
"My favorite activity was the Peace in Action workshop. Learning about the youth's perspective in Belfast was fascinating. We exchanged experiences of conflict and learned about different cultures."

"My favorite part of the conference was the Cultural Showcase because I realized that you can't really judge a person by their looks. The people who performed, I didn't even know they had it in them."

Contact Us
Jennelle Root
Special Programs Manager
(202) 347-8630 ext 4003
jroot@sister-cities.org

Youth Conference 2009 Photo Album