International Solidarity Forum

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ISF Through the Years

About the ISF

The International Solidarity Forum (ISF) is an annual training event hosted at the United Nations and World Youth Alliance headquarters in New York City. The forum brings together active and certified WYA members from around the world and subject matter experts to participate in lectures and discussions on topics relevant to ongoing international policy debates. Previous themes include Sustainable Development, HIV/AIDs, Migration and Development, and Good Governance.

Application Requirements

To apply to the International Solidarity Forum you must:

• An active World Youth Alliance member (under age 31)
• Have successfully completed and passed the WYA Certified Training Program
• Be able to communicate effectively and understand presentations in the English language

Application Form

Qualified applicants may complete the online application here. If you’re a WYA member and haven’t yet completed the Certified Training Program, you may enroll here for the next training batch.

Fees and Payments

• $60 for super early bird applicants (July 1 to September 30, 2019) – 40% discount
• $80 for early bird applicants (October 1 to December 6, 2019) – 20% discount
• $100 for regular applicants (December 7, 2019 to February 7, 2020)

*Additional $22 for the United Nations guided tour (optional)

Registration fee is inclusive of the following:

• Full access to all lectures and discussions
• Delegate kit, program booklet and ID
• Daily morning and afternoon snacks
• Lunch on days 1 and 4
• ISF Certificate of Participation
• Special ticket to the Manhattan International Film Festival

Deadlines

September 30, 2019 – Super early bird deadline for all applicants
December 7, 2019 – Early bird deadline for all applicants
January 10, 2020 – Regular deadline for those who need a US visa
February 7, 2020 – Regular deadline for those who doesn’t need a US visa

Inquiries

Please email events@wya.net with any questions you may have.

Who can participate in this event?

The ISF is open to all active and certified WYA members. Applicants who have good recommendations from their regional office have increased chances of being accepted.

How do I become a WYA Member?

WYA Members are young people between the ages of 10 and 30 who sign the WYA Charter. Visit www.wya.net/charter to sign the WYA Charter. Please note that new members typically will not qualify to attend the ISF, but are encouraged to become active and participate in their regional Emerging Leaders Conferences.

What is the Certified Training Program and how do I enroll?

The CTP trains WYA members in the core principles that form the mission of WYA. It discusses key concepts related to Human Dignity including freedom, solidarity, and culture, among many others. WYA members can enroll in the program for free. Each of the 6 WYA regions conducts three batches of online trainings every year. To enroll, visit www.wya.net/ctp. The program is scheduled over the course of approximately 3 months, so those wishing to attend the 2018 ISF who have not yet completed the CTP are encouraged to sign up for the autumn 2017 scheduled program in their region. Please note on your application if you are currently doing the training.

When will I be notified of the application decision?

Accepted applicants for phase two will be notified of the application decision three to four weeks after they have submitted their online application form.

Will WYA provide accommodations for participants?

WYA does not provide accommodations for participants. Participants must arrange their own accommodations. We have compiled a list of hotels and hostels in close proximity to the UN and the WYA office to assist you in finding accommodation.

Does WYA provide any funding for attendees?

Unfortunately, WYA is not able to provide funding of any kind to any member attending. We are opening applications earlier and working to process them in a timely manner to allow greater time for fundraising and visa applications.

What kind of visa will I need?

The most appropriate type of conference visa would be a B1/B2 Visitor for Business visa. WYA will issue acceptance and visa letters upon request to support your visa application but cannot provide any other support. We will ask accepted applicants requesting visa support for additional information to complete the letters. Applicants are responsible for all visa fees. More information on visitor visas is available at the U.S. State Department website.