Young Ambassadors Program (YAP) March 2011
On March 27, 2011 a group of young people ages 14-18 came together for a week long program. The group came from different countries and backgrounds but shared a special connection that bonds them for life - they were all victims of terrorism. Each of the participants in the program either lost a family member in a terrorist attack or were injured themselves. Participating countries included Spain, France, England, Northern Ireland, Israel, Liberia and the United States.
The group spent the week touring famous sites in New York City which included FAO Schwartz, Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, NY Skyride, and the Hard Rock Cafe. They met community and political leaders including Ambassador Anne Anderson, UN Representative of Ireland and Ambassador Meron Reuben, UN Representative of Israel as well as NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly to share their stories and ask questions about the long-term needs and safety of victims of terrorism around the world.
The group also created an art project designed by artist, Jennifer Contini (jennifercontini.com). The week was filled with exciting surprises but also the opportunity for the participants to learn about each other, share their experiences and support each other in order to heal.
As the closing program began on Sunday morning, April 2nd, the participants were asked to share a word or phrase that summed up their week. Some of the words shared, as tears streamed down the faces of everyone in the room were "family" "lasting friendship" "support" and "strength". Although this was the end of an incredible week, it was the beginning of something greater. We all knew when we left that day, that the lives of every person that week had changed for the better and we would always be there for each other to give support and strength.
