YES Hosts
Take the stage and become the face of the YES, by delivering inspirational sessions to all participants
They are the star of the event! 2 volunteers will take their places on the YES stage and deliver inspirational sessions to all participants, matching the theme of the YES. If you have experience with speaking in front of big crowds, love putting together inspiring content and are happy with being the face of a big event, you are the person for this role!
You will work closely with the other team members, responsible for content, to assure your content is in line with the overall educational approach and theme of the YES 2026. You will be in charge of recruiting inspiring guest speakers and delivering logistical information on stage.
In 2026, YFU will celebrate its 75th anniversary, an extraordinary milestone that broadly coincides with the creation of the post-World War II global order. Following the devastation of war, world leaders forged international institutions, established alliances, and created frameworks for cooperation to ensure peace and stability. Amidst these monumental efforts, YFU and its founder from Michigan, USA pioneered a unique and enduring form of soft diplomacy: intercultural student exchange. This vision recognized that lasting peace is not only built through treaties and policies but also through the everyday acts of kindness, hospitality, and understanding shared between ordinary people. As the YES 2026 takes place during this special anniversary year, the hosts will be asked to design plenary sessions that reflect both this historic milestone and the YES’ overarching theme on youth participation.
In addition to the general volunteer requirements at the YES, you should
Have been at the YES before.
Have previous experience in public speaking and performing on stage.
Feel comfortable to be in the spotlight and have a good amount of self-confidence.
Be able to plan content and create engaging programme
Have a very advanced level of English.
Good Canva (or other similar) skills would be an asset.
About your role
Prepare a detailed plan for each plenary session of the YES, focusing both on content and logistical aspects.
Identify potential guest speakers, taking into consideration the 75th anniversary and the YES theme that will be defined during the first prep meeting.
Approach guest speakers and confirm their attendance, fix details on their intervention and arrange logistical aspects of their participation at least 2 months before the event.
Make sure that all important information about the YES reaches the participants during the event by organising announcements during the plenaries and how to collect the information from other team members; linking also with the Communications and Media Team Coordinator on the YES hub to avoid conflicting information; communicate openly with Spirit Activities Coordinators, Head of Community, Tech Team and other relevant volunteers.
Boost the YES spirit among the participants through engaging and inspiring Plenary sessions.
Ensure that the theme of the YES is well integrated into the Plenary sessions and lead all participants through the “red thread”.
Lead plenary sessions, by speaking in front of approximately 400-500 people.