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The Lions Club International Youth Camp and Exchange Program (YCE) is a global initiative aimed at fostering cultural understanding and peace through youth exchanges. Managed by Lions Clubs International, one of the largest service organisations in the world, the programme gives young people the opportunity to experience life in another culture, make international friends, and develop leadership and personal growth.
Exchanges involve individuals staying abroad with host families, participating in social activities, possibly service projects and visiting cultural places of interest. The YCE initiative encourages cultural assimilation as participants are expected to familiarise themselves with customs and the local language.
Who can apply
- Young people between 16 and 22 years of age
- Be sponsored by a Lions club
- Represent your country and sponsoring Lions club
- Open to exploring the customs of another culture
- Provide proof of insurance (health, medical, travel) and a liability release agreement
- Take initiative to learn the language of the host country (i.e. basic greetings and phrases)
Duration
Exchanges typically last for 2 to 6 weeks with the help of host families (Lions or non-Lions), sponsor clubs and host clubs.
How to apply
- Find the link to the YCE International Directory and have a look at which countries offer exchanges.
- A sponsoring Lions club is required for participation in an exchange, review the list of local clubs to see if they are willing to sponsor you.
- Reach out expressing which countries you would like to go on an exchange in, and contact the corresponding YCE Chairpersons in your interested countries for additional eligibility and application requirements.
Costs
They vary from country to country. Host Lions clubs cover the costs of room and board with a host family. You are typically responsible for:
- Airfare
- Camp fees
- Health, medical and travel insurance
- Travel documents
- Pocket money
Read more here.
Opportunity offered by: Lions Club International Youth Camp and Exchange Program
