The Oxfam International Youth Partnership (OIYP), “a global network of young people who share a vision of a just world and are committed to working for peaceful, equitable and sustainable social change with their communities” is inviting applications for its 2010-2013 program. During this period, young people, referred to as ‘Action Partners’ will receive several opportunities and support to develop leadership and bring about positive changes locally, nationally and globally. The program is an initiative of Oxfam International and it is managed by Oxfam Australia.
The concept of OIYP began with the gathering of young people in 1999 in Sydney, Australia. The overwhelming response led to further progress with the formation of Action Partners, who now meet, discuss and take action to address various issues facing the globe and make a positive influence during this 3-year program. The OIYP Network now comprises of young people between the age 18 and 25 years working for positive and equitable work. They have be advocating on different issues in partnership with communities around the world.
The OIYP program builds the capacities of these young people so that they are able to work for positive social change in a more effective manner. It is “the vehicle through which Oxfam creates opportunities for dialogue, learning and challenging for its partners around the world. Over time, personal change in action partners will translate into social, economic and political change within individual communities, in regions and across the globe.”
The 2010-2013 program “will have opportunities to develop your skills, knowledge and understanding and to talk and exchange with other young people from around the world. You will be able to use these opportunities to support your work with your community.” This will be launched with 8-day Kaleidoscope event to be held in New Delhi, India in November 2010 where young people from different parts of the world will be able to interact with each other. Selected candidates for the program should ensure that they are available to attend this event.
The program is open to young people (18-15 years) from all nationalities, indigenous and ethnic groups. “t is open to young people with any level of education and who live in rural or urban areas.” There will be an equal number of young men and women selected and a strong focus will be on the participation of young people from indigenous and marginalized communities.
Application form can be downloaded from the OIYP website and applicants should be between 18 and 25 years old as on 1 October 2010. The deadline to submit applications is 12 February 2010. For more information visit this link.
