Youth Peacebuilding Journey

Are you ready to take action for peace in your community?
Do you want to build your leadership skills, meet new people, and create real change?

YMCA Lebanon, with support from Oxfam GB, is launching a new youth initiative under the Youth Peacebuilding journey. This 5-month journey from June to October 2025 will bring together young people to build their skills in peacebuilding, leadership, and civic engagement.

About YMCA

YMCA is a global organization dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a long history of working for peace and justice, YMCA Lebanon creates safe, inclusive spaces where young people can grow, lead, and contribute positively to their communities.

Why Join?

Lebanon faces many challenges—sectarian tensions, youth exclusion, lack of inclusive spaces, and strained community relations.
But you can help shape a different future. This program gives you the tools, guidance, and community support to lead that change.

What to Expect?

Phase 1 – Building Bridges 6-Day Residential Workshop at the YMCA Camp

• Learn about identity, empathy, communication, and your role in peacebuilding
• Join intercultural activities: art, sports, and storytelling
• Make new friends across divides and grow your network

Phase 2 – Leadership in Action 5-Day Residential Workshop at the YMCA Camp

• Deepen your understanding of conflict and how to transform it
• Train in mediation, negotiation, and leadership
• Develop your own community peace project and apply for a small grant
• Take part in informal exchange activities like hiking and cultural nights.

Phase 3 – Unifying Voices -5-Day at YMCA Dora training center

• Tackle difficult topics in safe, respectful dialogue spaces
• Learn how to use social media to promote peace, not division
• Create advocacy campaigns that amplify your voice and message

Note: Participants will move from one phase to the next based on sincerity, commitment, active participation, and engagement throughout the program. This is a progressive learning journey.

Who Can Apply?

We are looking for motivated youth aged 18–30 living in Baalbeck-Hermel, Beirut, or Mount Lebanon who are:

• Passionate about making a difference
• Open to dialogue and learning from others
• Able to fully commit to the full 8-month program
• Willing to engage sincerely and actively throughout all phases
• Never participated in the YMCA peacebuilding camp before

No prior experience is required—just your energy, curiosity, and commitment.