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                    <title>TIGblogs - Group - Youth Assembly at the United Nations</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly</link> 
                    <description>What's on the minds of young leaders from around the globe?</description> 
                    <language>en-us</language> 
             
                <item> 
                    <title>Youth Assembly Founders Have Inspiring Impact on Future Generations</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/652001</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Email received this week (edited down to shortern it): <br />
<br />
<br />
A TRIBUTE TO MY MENTORS<br />
<br />
To my mentors  inspiration:<br />
<br />
It is an honor to be acquainted with you all. Having finished a milestone in my life, I would like to pay tribute to the people who have been an inspiration.<br />
<br />
.....<br />
<br />
Dr. Elaine Valdov and Patrick Sciarratta, you have devoted your life to give opportunities and a voice to young individuals. The International Youth Council would not be possible had it not been for your vision. I only wish nothing but success for The Youth Assembly and your work at the United Nations.<br />
<br />
and ...<br />
<br />
Most importantly the Youth (Many of whom attended the annual Youth Assembly at the united Nations; ed.):<br />
<br />
Ahmad Alhawandawi, Jaime Ansorge, Asha Castleberry– the founders of the International Youth Council, I am in debt to you all. The opportunity that you have given me, has defined and given structure to my life. You have succeeded in your vision in bringing young individuals together in pursuit of supporting the Millenium Development Goals from all over the world.<br />
<br />
Simon Fayard, Karolina Pormanczuk, Carla Banson, Isabella Schlipp, Chloe Hall, Emmanuel Onywera, Sari Myers, and Bertch Ian Ranis —it is because of young individuals like you that inspire me to change the world – at any magnitude. You are all so amazing.<br />
<br />
Angela Jhanji, Miguel Toro, Eric Dales Jillian  Rebecca Thomsen (Young at heart), I have written a separate tribute to all of you. Yet, I thought it was important to include you in this tribute as well, The Youth Assembly at the UN has brought us together, and I am sure that our friendship will last a lifetime.<br />
<br />
Since I was 11, it has always been my passion to change world-- at a magnitude enough to save other lives other than my own. That passion has been channeled to devote my life to benefit our environment. There is an African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone, if you want to go far, go together." During this epic challenge, we have to go far, fast. As our world is in midst of a ‘global emergency, we should prepare and look forward for a life devoted to finding solutions to prevent climate change and it’s disastrous effects. I am positive that our generation can avert the effects of global warming.<br />
<br />
I am very fortunate to be able to be acquainted with each and every one of you, as you are my inspiration. It is due to your drive and passion to create a healthier, safer, and cleaner environment for our generation that encourages young individuals, such as myself, to do the same.<br />
<br />
<br />
With Love,<br />
Esperanza Garcia<br />
Blog: http://ecohope.blogspot.com/ <http://ecohope.blogspot.com/>]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2009 13:07:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/652001</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>YLD Paper</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640615</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Awesome position paper on youth-led development and its benefits: http://www.youthinfocus.net/pdf/YIF_NDE.pdf]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:59:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640615</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>Global Action Week, April 20-27</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640607</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Next Monday marks the start of Global Action Week 2009, an international campaign week to let the world know that we need to provide education to all those who cannot access this basic right.  Just as humans have the right to life, to basic shelter, food, water, and clothing, they too should be able to educate themselves.  <br />
<br />
Appropriately, the theme for this year's Week is "Literacy." The ability to read opens doors, such as providing access to the global information stream, to higher education, to basic health guidelines and more.  The Canadian Global Campaign for Education, sponsor of the Global Action Week, is partnering with "Global Campaign for Education" partners to produce a series of short stories by prominent international humanitarian figures on said topic.  <br />
<br />
How you can take part in Global Action Week:<br />
   1. Register Online for Global Action Week 2009<br />
   2. Download the BIG READ stories and lessons.<br />
   3. Choose the lessons and stories to use with your class or group.<br />
   4. Do the BIG READ activities during Global Action Week (April 20-26, 2009)<br />
   5. Complete the Validation Form, and the Petition to the Canadian Government for more action.<br />
   6. Send both the Validation Form and Petition to CGCE by May 8, 2009.<br />
<br />
Also, the Speak Up for Change blog is accepting submissions on "Literacy" to be published on the blog next week.  Email editor@accesscharity.ca to submit yours.  <br />
<br />
See http://speakupforchange.blogspot.com/2009/03/want-to-take-action-global-action-week.html for more information. ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:57:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640607</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Great Blogger: Speak up for change.</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640601</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA["Youth-Led Development (YLD) is already an enormous field worth several billion dollars to the global economy. In many parts of the developing world, every village has a youth self-help association which deals with starting up small businesses, coping with crisis brought on by HIV/AIDs, war, trafficking, human rights abuses, gender violence, diseases, poverty, hunger, etc. Young people are directly responsible for their survival number in the millions. In the industrialized north, youth-led initiatives are increasingly widespread."<br />
<br />
This blog covers all the news on youth in the developing world.  It facilitates discourse on issues such as MDG progress, etc.  <br />
<br />
Subscribe to the blog.  Get inspired to ACT now. <br />
<br />
http://speakupforchange.blogspot.com/2009/03/want-to-take-action-global-action-week.html<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:49:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640601</guid>
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                    <title>Calling all youth-led organizations - Grant opportunity available!</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640597</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[UN Habitat has set up a special fund, championed by Norway, to help young people living in poverty.  <br />
<br />
"The Youth fund represents a milestone in the recognition at the highest levels of the need to practically support youth-led initiatives and lead the way for other organizations and governments to place youth at the centre of their development strategies."<br />
<br />
http://www.unhabitat.org/content.asp?typeid=19catid=531cid=5695<br />
<br />
Now, the fund for Urban Youth Led Development is giving out a grant to provide resources for groups addressing shelter, food, a better living environment, etc. for the urban poor.  <br />
<br />
Small youth initiatives may receive up to $5,000, and larger ones can receive up to $25,000.  <br />
<br />
The deadline to apply is JUNE 1, 2009. <br />
<br />
Please check the website posted below for more information.  You will find applications, etc. here. <br />
http://www.unhabitat.org/content.asp?typeid=19catid=531cid=6329]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:14:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640597</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Youth Entrepreneurship in Africa</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640593</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[A blog called Yipe.org, which stands for Youth Interactive Portal for Enterprise, provides commentaries on youth in Africa.  The latest post details how many youth are living on the streets, and it is only a matter of time before there is an angry uprising.  The blogger specifically references Kenya.   <br />
<br />
Check it out: <br />
http://yipeorg.maneno.org/eng/articles/the_coming_of_anarchy1239709680/<br />
<br />
Africa has seen turmoil for some time now, with the crisis in Darfur and now neighboring countries, Zimbabwe's humanitarian and financial crisis, and now Kenya.  <br />
<br />
If youth stand together and attempt to make a difference, perhaps peace can bloom in these troubled states.<br />
<br />
Thoughts? <br />
<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2009 11:09:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/640593</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>YLD around the world...</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/623419</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[http://www.shababinclusion.org/<br />
-Middle Eastern youth initiative. <br />
<br />
http://youthactors.ning.com/<br />
-Young Change Leaders blog, where youth can discuss the best ways within their communities to address youth-led development.  <br />
<br />
More to come. <br />
<br />
<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:51:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/623419</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>Youth-Led Development Opportunities</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/623417</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[There are currently many options for youth to involve themselves in an organization or opportunity working towards youth-led development.  Grassroots initiative is crucial to achieving the Millennium Development Goals, and you can get involved before you arrive in New York for the Youth Assembly in August.<br />
<br />
As you know, the internet has played an increasingly important role in the way that NGOs and other related organizations reach out to each other.  Blogs are tools for these organizations to advertise and recruit those who are interested in helping to facilitate progress on i.e. the MDGs.   <br />
<br />
"Access: Speak Up For Change" is a blog run by ACCESS, or Allowing Children a Chance at Education.  It's mission is to educate children and youth in North America about issues across borders.  The blog serves as a forum for youth to discuss change and progression on many action initiatives.  <br />
<br />
So, does blogging appeal to you? Check this out:<br />
<br />
"Calling You to Action<br />
<br />
ACCESS is seeking schools, students, and individuals who are interested in participating in the program. This includes blog entries from non-profit organizations, relating to our topics above. Both regular contributors and one-time participants are welcome.<br />
<br />
Submissions will be published on the Speak Up for Change website, after being approved by our editors and categorized according to topic and theme. Please consider writing a new blog entry, or sending us existing written content for the blog. Accompanying video and photos are most welcome."<br />
<br />
http://www.accesscharity.ca/speakupforchange_about.htm<br />
<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:19:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/623417</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>More news on the Opportunities Fund</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/594629</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=28829Cr=un-habitatCr1<br />
<br />
"Known as the Opportunities Fund for Urban Youth-Led Development, the fund is initially being financed by Norway and will work to engage young women and men in achieving sustainable urbanization and tackle issues including rampant youth unemployment, barriers to entrepreneurship and lack of appropriate training and education." ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:37:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/594629</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>Facebook and Youth Led Development</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/594623</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[There are many opportunities for youth-led development that exist across the globe.  Youth like you are taking charge and creating ways to fund ideas.  This Facebook group called "Opportunities Fund for Youth-Led Development" is a great platform for discussion of ways to get involved.  This is their statement on their group page: <br />
<br />
"The Opportunities Fund aims to facilitate the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals and their youth-related targets. It will help young people in the poorer neighborhoods of cities in the developing world find new opportunities in life, especially when it comes to employment and entrepreneurship. It will also be used to strengthen youth-related policies, help governments, civil society organizations and the private sector address youth concerns, and support new information and learning channels for young people. It will help pilot innovative ideas on employment, governance, shelter and secure tenure; share best practices, and assist vocational training and credit mechanisms to promote entrepreneurship and employment for young people. It will also seek to ensure that gender concerns are incorporated into all policies."<br />
<br />
Youth Assembly Delegates will be working on the success of the Millennium Development Goals.  The Opportunities Fund takes this idea and puts it into practice.  Visit this link http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/group.php?sid=999d0949cb118387667df35b53e9d74cgid=22460376177 to join. ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 11:41:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/594623</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>The time to invest in youth-led development is now.</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/589925</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[This information is taken from an article by David Woollcombe, the director of Peacechild International.  It appeared in the February 2008 UN News Flash.  <br />
<br />
He makes the statement that the investment in youth-led development is the best one that a company or individual can make.  Youth Assembly attendees, pay close attention!<br />
  <br />
Reasons youth-led development makes the most sense:<br />
"Demographics for one: with young people under<br />
the age of 25 forming 60-70% of least developed country’s (LDCs) populations, logic dictates that they should have a central role. Logic, and years of research, has also proved<br />
that experiential education is far and away the most effective way for young people to learn.  Information retention rates are double those achieved by cognitive classroom teaching. Training, mentoring and financing young people to start and run small businesses teaches<br />
young people most of the business skills that they need to be employable graduates. Doing a social or environmental programme teaches project management skills that are invaluable in any career. This is why I argue that YLD should form part of all Government education and training budgets: it’s logical! <br />
<br />
There is a school in Paraguay where students are running 14 businesses from their classrooms – earning money for themselves and for their families. How cool is that?!" <br />
<br />
You can make a difference in your community and the world simply by speaking up.  The next post will be a collection of stories about youth who have made their own footprints on the world.<br />
<br />
Do you have a success story to share? Did you attend a previous Youth Assembly? If so, what are you doing now? <br />
<br />
Post it! ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 12:14:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/589925</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Spain progresses on MDG #1</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/589865</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[        Spain pledged one billion euros to boost food security in poorer nations over the next five years, according to a recent article in the Australian.  <br />
<br />
        Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero said that "A total of € one billion ($2 billion) will go during this period towards the nations which are the most vulnerable and most affected by the global food security crisis,” according to the article.  <br />
<br />
	The statement came during a two-day conference on food security.  The move aims to raise Spain’s development aid to 0.7 percent of its GDP.  The world’s richest nations promised to provide this much in development aid by 2015 as part of the MDGs.  <br />
<br />
	The current food crisis has brought the number of hungry people in the world to one billion.  United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon addressed this as unacceptable.  <br />
<br />
	“We worked hard to bring food assistance to those who needed it in 2008. I expect we will have to work even harder in 2009, this year of recession," he said, adding the UN provided emergency food aid to over 100 million people last year, according to the article.  <br />
<br />
	It seems that Spain is taking a lead, then, in striving to help achieve the Millenium Development Goals.         <br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:56:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/589865</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Millennium Development Goals</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/589853</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[As you prepare to arrive in New York for the big event this August, you should brush up on the United Nations Millennium Development Goals and their implications. Knowledge of these aims is crucial to a successful assembly in August. <br />
<br />
So, how do the Millennium Development Goals relate to the Youth Assembly (YA)? <br />
<br />
The main objective of the YA is to strengthen commitment to the achievement of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The MDGs were adopted by 189 countries at the United Nations (UN) Millennium Summit in September 2000. This was a meeting of world leaders to determine a concrete plan for improving the quality of life in developing countries. <br />
<br />
We need YOU, the youth of the world, to help the goals progress as planned. Your ideas, action plans and passion can contribute immensely to these initiatives. <br />
<br />
The MDGs are as follows:<br />
<br />
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger<br />
2. Achieve Universal Primary Education<br />
3. Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women<br />
4. Reduce Child Mortality<br />
5. Improve Maternal Health<br />
6. Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Other Diseases<br />
7. Ensure Environmental Sustainability<br />
8. Develop a Global Partnership for Development<br />
<br />
Check out these sites for more information:<br />
<br />
•Official Site for the U.N. Millennium Development Goals <br />
http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/<br />
<br />
•List of Related Sites provided by the U.N.<br />
http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/relatedsites.html <br />
<br />
Once again, we appreciate your participation in the 6th Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations. We look forward to meeting you in August!]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2009 11:14:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/589853</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>President Obama's first day in office.</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574573</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Photo taken from the New York Times, January 21, 2009. ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:19:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574573</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>History in the making.</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574571</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Tuesday marked a momentous occasion for America as the first black president took the oath of office.  The world watched as power switched hands with the hope that change can finally become a reality. <br />
<br />
Obama's appointment of Susan Rice to foreign policy advisor will most certainly mean an increased role for the United States in contributing to the United Nations.  An excerpt from a January 15, New York Times article reads "In her opening statement, Ms. Rice, who was the senior foreign policy adviser to the Obama campaign, said she would work on four main issues with the overall goal of reinvigorating American leadership at the United Nations. They are improving the capacity of the United Nations to undertake peacekeeping operations; providing leadership in addressing climate change; preventing both the spread and the use of nuclear weapons; and working to alleviate the suffering of the world’s poorest."<br />
<br />
Perhaps the world will see the United States, under the Obama administration, lend a greater hand to acheiving the Millenium Development Goals.  In a November 2008 Agence-France Presse article campaign manager Salil Shetty said ""During the election campaign, Obama said the 'Millennium Development Goals are our goals'. If he keeps to that promise it will be amazing." <br />
<br />
Respond to this post with what you think about President Obama's plans to change the United States' role on the world stage. ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:48:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574571</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Letter to the New York Times</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574545</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Jeffrey Sachs, the director of the U.N. Millenium Project, wrote in a 2005 letter to the New York Times that "The Millennium Development Goals remain by far the world's best hope to mobilize real action, not only for improved measurement but also for the bottom-line results that could save millions of lives each year and help hundreds of millions of impoverished people escape from poverty."<br />
<br />
This is the message that we hope you, the ambassadors to the Youth Assembly, understand.  The world needs their youth to see and act, and come together to challenge the international community to raise the bar. <br />
<br />
You can find the full letter on the New York Times website.<br />
<br />
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B07E2DC1131F937A2575AC0A9639C8B63scp=8sq=milleniumdevelopmentgoals2009st=cse<br />
<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:34:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574545</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>Facebook Group</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574543</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Join us on Facebook! <br />
<br />
If you have an account, search Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations and join. <br />
<br />
Here, you can get to know other YA participants before the Assembly begins.  Respond to discussion topics, post on the wall and share your project ideas. ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:29:00 EST</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574543</guid>
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                </item> 
                <item> 
                    <title>2009 Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/574525</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[     The Youth Assembly at the United Nations is a gathering of hundreds of young people from around the world (18-26 years old) who seek future involvement with the United Nations, civil society and ways to contribute to the successful implementation of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The conference will take place this year at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, on August 5-7, 2009.<br />
     Delegates are encouraged to take part in the Leadership Seminar that precedes the assembly from July 30- August 3, 2009. Throughout the four-day retreat, participants create an action plan for meeting an existing challenge in their home communities.<br />
     So, to all the Assembly participants: please share your project ideas here.  This way, we can get to know each other before August.  Or, write about something of particular interest to you that you think applies to the Millennium Development Goals, etc. Check back often for new posts about current issues of international interest. We will always post news here about the Youth Assembly as well.  We look forward to seeing you soon! <br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2009 11:33:00 EST</pubDate> 
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                    <title>University Credit Hours</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/427951</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Dear Delegates,<br />
<br />
We're excited to let you know that Eastern Washington University  is offering 1-3 resident quarter credits to students that enroll with them and that come to the Annual Youth Assembly. The class they are offering credit for is titled Leadership in the 21st Century: Communicating for Success. <br />
<br />
This is the Course in Brief, according to the EWU Course syllabus:<br />
<br />
<br />
This directed study course, offered in conjunction with a leadership summit, offers a<br />
<br />
comprehensive look at the importance of cross-cultural communication.<br />
The course is divided into three separate, but related, study phases: the preparation or<br />
<br />
Pre-Conference Phase, the Conference Phase and the Post-Conference Phase.<br />
During the Pre-Conference Phase the student will develop an image/model [theory] of what<br />
he/she thinks cross-cultural communication means. During the Conference Phase, the student<br />
will attend an intensive leadership program where a variety of academic lectures, workshops<br />
and meetings will be conducted.<br />
<br />
The purpose of these meetings will be to provide expert and professional information on the<br />
dynamic principles of leadership and communication to participating students. Lectures will<br />
be conducted by ranking academic professionals, diplomats, politicians, military and corporate<br />
leaders. Students will learn not only the specific principles of leadership and communication;<br />
they will practice them through situation role-playing, action planning and other interactive<br />
projects. During this phase, the student will validate the image/model or theory they formed<br />
during the Pre-Conference Phase.<br />
<br />
After the student returns home he/she will finalize all written and/or other assignments.<br />
<br />
If you are interested in this, you should contact International Field Studies at: <br />
ifsprogram@ ewu.edu<br />
OR 800.541.2125  8am-5pm PT<br />
<br />
Good luck!<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:39:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/427951</guid>
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                    <title>New Award at YA!</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/425469</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Hello Registered Participants!<br />
<br />
We added a new award to be presented at Campaign Night. Below, you'll find a description of the award and how to nominate your organization or campaign for it.<br />
<br />
Want your Youth Campaign/Organization to be recognized?<br />
<br />
Nominate your campaign/organization for the Outstanding Youth Campaign Award<br />
<br />
Eligibility:<br />
<br />
-Campaign/Organization must be founded by an attendee of the Youth Assembly at the United Nations <br />
<br />
-Must exemplify one or more of the 8 Millennium Development Goals or Youth Empowerment<br />
<br />
-Awardees must be registered for Campaign Night in order to participate.<br />
Nominations will be judged by how accurately they reflect the spirit of the Millennium Development Goals, their contribution to society through implementation of programs or events, and their membership scope and structure. <br />
<br />
Deadline to Apply: July 21st<br />
<br />
How To apply:<br />
<br />
-Click on this link: http://www.faf.org/programs/unyouthassembly/CampaignAward-applicationform.htm OR<br />
<br />
-Visit our website http://www.faf.org/programs/unyouthassembly/ldrsretreat.htm click on Special Events on the left side of the page, scroll down to Campaign Night and below Campaign Night there is a link to apply for the Outstanding Youth Campaign Award<br />
<br />
We look forward to seeing you at the Assembly in August.<br />
<br />
Your YA Staff<br />
<br />
NOTE: All award recipients will be notified via e-mail no later that July 25th. If attending, awardees are responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses during the Youth Assembly activities at the United Nations. All events at the U.N. are free of charge beyond a small registration fee.<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2008 13:36:00 EDT</pubDate> 
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                    <title>A message from the Secretary General on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/397625</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Dear Youth Assembly Delegates,<br />
<br />
Yesterday, U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, sent a message to the member states on International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. <br />
<br />
Ten years ago, the member states of the United Nations got together to act against the problems caused by drug abuse and illegal trafficking around the world. The member states committed themselves to becoming proactive in reducing both the supply and demand for drugs. <br />
<br />
“Today, drugs continue to destroy lives, generate crime and threaten sustainable development.  But we also have a better understanding of how to confront drug abuse and trafficking.  Policymakers can draw on a growing body of evidence about drug dependence and drug-use trends.  International cooperation and technical assistance are improving law enforcement capabilities.  Increased development assistance is helping to reduce poverty and the sale of illicit crops by giving farmers sustainable alternatives.  A stronger focus on prevention and treatment is putting health at the centre of drug-control strategies and helping to slow the spread of HIV/AIDS.  And there is a growing consensus, both within communities and among states, that drug control is a shared responsibility in which we all play a part,” wrote Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. <br />
<br />
Obviously, drug abuse is a serious threat to the Millennium Development Goals. Drug abuse promotes violence, illness, corruption and instability, the exact opposite of what we’re trying to achieve. <br />
<br />
Let’s do what is in our power to rid our world from the awful consequences of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Let’s listen and act upon the Secretary General’s call to “prevent and reduce the damage that drugs do, and thereby build a healthier and safer world.”<br />
<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:11:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/397625</guid>
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                    <title>GOOD NEWS!</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/384239</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Don't Miss Out: <br />
 <br />
We are extending the deadline for Accomodation Packages!<br />
Due to high demand, we have extended the deadline for Accomodation Package reservations from June 9 to July 9, 2008.  <br />
 <br />
If you have not already done so, please go to http://www.faf.org/programs/unyouthassembly/packages.htm to check out your options.  You will find detailed descriptions as well as invidual or group reservation forms so that you can reserve your place and ensure a safe and easy experience at the 2008 Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations!  Simply download a reservation form, fill it out and fax it to us with the required documents as indicated on the form.<br />
 <br />
 You can choose from:<br />
 <br />
Youth Leader Bonus Package <br />
August 6-17, 2008<br />
Leadership Seminar + Youth Assembly + Post-Assembly Social Extension in NYC<br />
Find out more about the Leadership Seminar by clicking here. <br />
<br />
 <br />
Youth Leader Package <br />
August 6-15, 2008<br />
Leadership Seminar + Youth Assembly<br />
Find out more about the Leadership Seminar by clicking here. <br />
 <br />
The Big Apple Conference Package<br />
August 11-17, 2008<br />
Youth Assembly + Post-Assembly Social Extension in NYC<br />
 <br />
Basic Conference Package<br />
August 11-15, 2008<br />
<br />
 <br />
Remember: Travel Packages are optional although HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!  Staying together adds a tremendous benefit to the delegates' experience.  It allows you informal time with fellow delegates, makes exploring the New York City easy and enjoyable. For your safety and security, as well as to make the entire experience affordable and complete, we strongly encourage this option during your stay. ]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:51:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/384239</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Culture Night and International Youth Day</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/384089</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[The 5th Annual Youth Assembly is approaching and we are looking forward to seeing you at the United Nations.<br />
<br />
Here is some information you might want to have.<br />
<br />
International Culture Night<br />
<br />
You are invited to present and participate in one of our special events, the International Culture Night at the Youth Assembly on Wednesday, August 13. <br />
<br />
Dress in your traditional national clothes and represent your culture and country through music, dance, or other artistic presentations. All the participants who signed up for this special event are invited to make a short, 5-6 minute presentation. It is always so much fun!  <br />
<br />
<br />
International Youth Day<br />
<br />
FAF and the Youth Assembly have partnered up with International Youth Day organizers. As a YA delegate, you are invited to attend their events happening right outside the United Nations on August 12. International Youth Day also invites you to participate with them. Please let us know if you are interested in: <br />
<br />
1. Helping create the Peace Wall Mural with Cityarts<br />
2. Performing a dance, song, skit<br />
3. Reading an original poem<br />
4. Becoming a text pal/pen pal of a NYC teen/young adult<br />
5.  Joining a silent rave<br />
6. Participating in a fashion show<br />
<br />
If you are a registered participant, you are eligible to receive more information on how to sign up for these two very exciting events. Hope to see you in August!<br />
<br />
  <br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2008 10:26:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/384089</guid>
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                    <title>Brush up on the Millennium Development Goals</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/378511</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Welcome back to FAF's blog for the Youth Assembly at the United Nations (YA). As you prepare for this year’s big event, we advise that you brush up on one of the United Nations’ latest initiatives: the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and relative projects.<br />
<br />
As you know, a main objective of the YA is to strengthen commitment to the achievement of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The MDGs were adopted by 189 countries at the United Nations (UN) Millennium Summit in September 2000: a meeting of world leaders to determine a concrete plan for improving the quality of life in developing countries. <br />
The MDGs are as follows:<br />
<br />
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger<br />
2. Achieve Universal Primary Education<br />
3. Promote Gender Equality and Empower Women<br />
4. Reduce Child Mortality<br />
5. Improve Maternal Health<br />
6. Combat HIV/AIDS, Malaria and Other Diseases<br />
7. Ensure Environmental Sustainability<br />
8. Develop a Global Partnership for Development<br />
<br />
By attending YA 2008, YOU: the selected delegates, the representatives of nations and organizations from all over the world, Tomorrow’s Leaders Today, will have the tools and resources necessary for the successful implementation of the MDGs. To learn more about the Goals, visit the suggested sites:<br />
<br />
•Official Site for the U.N. Millennium Development Goals <br />
http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/<br />
<br />
•List of Related Sites provided by the U.N.<br />
http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/relatedsites.html <br />
<br />
Once again, we appreciate your participation in the 5th Annual Youth Assembly at the United Nations. We look forward to meeting you in August!<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Tue, 27 May 2008 14:31:00 EDT</pubDate> 
					<guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/378511</guid>
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                <item> 
                    <title>Introduction!</title> 
                    <link>http://www.tigblog.org/group/youthassembly/post/355067</link> 
                    <description><![CDATA[Hello and welcome to the blog of the 5th anniversary YA.  I am writing from Friendship Ambassadors Foundation, one of the hosts for the project.  Working with Dr. Elaine Valdov of the IICP, we have constructed another great opportunity for young people to discuss, learn about, and share their actual and emerging projects in support of MDG fulfillment.<br />
<br />
Since we began working together, it has been my dream to see the MDGs more widely known and to help in any small way to ensure that young people were taking a leadership role in their success.  We hope this platform serves those ends.<br />
<br />
Over the past four years we have met so many very talented young people doing great projects all over the world.   From NGO service, to the arts for peace, to social entrepreneurship that creates important new social enterprise on all levels, it is staggering how many good things are being done in the field.  The YA is a great opportunity to learn about those efforts, report back on the work you are doing out there, and to hear the inspiring words of those who care about the very same goals you do. <br />
<br />
I personally cannot to wait to meet you all virtually and actually on the blog and at the UN this summer.<br />
<br />
Thank you for signing up and being a part of our success!<br />
<br />
<br />
]]></description> 
					<pubDate>Tue, 08 Apr 2008 15:22:00 EDT</pubDate> 
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