The Refugee Week team are looking for enthusiastic young refugees living across the UK to become Young Ambassadors for Refugee Week 2014.

This year, Refugee Week will focus on children and young refugees, to celebrate the important part they play in our shared futures, the wonderful contributions they are making to our society, and to recognise the resilience and determination they show when rebuilding their lives in a strange, new country.

Refugee Week is therefore looking for bright, passionate young refugees to join their team and inspire other young people by sharing their experiences, and speaking out about life in the UK.

Who can be a Young Ambassador?

All children and young people aged 16-25 are welcome to apply. We are particularly keen to hear from young refugees and asylum seekers, including those who have come to the UK on their own, children who have come here with their families, or those who are survivors of trafficking.

We are really interested to hear from people who:
● Have something to say about the role young refugees play in shaping the future of the UK
● Achieved something they are proud of
● Have an interesting hobby
● Help out in their community
● Are studying hard at school
● Want to talk about their experiences (good or bad) of settling into life in the UK

But the main thing is that you are enthusiastic and want to get involved in our work to inspire other young people!

Anyone under 18 must have permission from their legal guardian and/or their support worker.

What will being a Young Ambassador involve?

This depends on what you want to do, and how much time you have. We will suggest things to you, and you can decide!

But some of the ways you can get involved are:
● Offering ideas for activities we should be doing this year, and working with the Refugee Week team to make them happen
● Writing blogs and making Youtube clips about how young refugees will shape our future
● Talking to the media about your life in the UK and the things you are doing now
● Speaking at Refugee Week events about contributions of young refugees
● Appearing on Refugee Week posters and materials

We will offer you lots of support and training so that you can develop your skills, and to make sure you feel comfortable with everything you are asked to do.

What will I get out of it?

● Make new friends
● Learn some new skills
● Build confidence and self esteem
● Make a real difference by inspiring other young people, and showing the UK what young refugees can achieve!

I want to apply, but I want to remain anonymous in any public work you are doing.

Of course! Everyone is welcome to join our team, no matter what your status is, and whether you want to use your name and photo, or not. You can still participate in our work, without your identity being made public. The most important thing is that you are protected, so we will make sure you are not put at any risk in the work you are helping us with. Just let us know this is the case, and we can talk it through with you.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying (or know someone who might be), email your name, your contact details, and a short paragraph about why you want to be a Young Ambassador for Refugee 2014 to:

emily@counterpoints.org.uk
020 7012 1761

The extended deadline for initial applications is Friday 4th April. We will then contact you with further information.

Photo credit: Refugee Week 2012’s brilliant ‘Unsung Heroes’ Luka, Kolbassia & Cynthia.