UNICEF NZ is offering 50 young people from across New Zealand the unique opportunity to attend the first-ever UNICEF NZ Youth Congress which is being held in Manukau from July 15-17, 2011.

To mark the International Year of Youth UNICEF NZ is looking for 16-17 year olds who have a strong interest in world issues, like poverty and climate change, and are passionate about the rights of children globally.

The Congress will be an opportunity for participants to learn more about the world, share ideas about how to make a difference and gain the skills needed to take action. The event will also have a specific focus on developmental issues in the Pacific to coincide with the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.

Budding young journalists will be particularly excited by this opportunity because, as well as including training on the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, the programme will include a practical focus on media skills and how to use communications for advocacy.

Pip Bennett, Advocacy Officer at UNICEF NZ, said, ”If you’re a young person with a real passion for children’s rights, a true interest in global issues and a nose for news then we want to hear from you!

“The Congress will be a really exciting opportunity to learn how you can take action about important issues that are affecting children in the world today. Many children around the world don’t have a voice - join us and help be the change”.

Get more information or apply here

Applicants must be 16-17 years old and must have NCEA Level 1 English or written language credits at this level (or equivalent). A parent or guardian must support each application. Applications close on Wednesday 1 June.