Smithsonian Young Ambassadors Program 2026: A Transformative Leadership Opportunity @Smithsonian National Museum of the American Latino

Overview

The Smithsonian Young Ambassadors Program (YAP) in 2026 aims to foster leadership skills in rising high school seniors through cultural exploration and exposure to the Smithsonian's resources. This program nurtures young thinkers, creatives, and changemakers by promoting higher education and developing 21st-century skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in workshops led by scholars, museum professionals, and community advocates.
• Explore topics related to STEM, arts, history, and culture through direct engagement with Smithsonian exhibitions and collections.
• Engage in the Making History Community Practicum, contributing to civic initiatives and serving as community ambassadors.
• Contribute to local organizations and explore the role of museums in representation and community engagement.
• Join the Alumni Network for continued leadership development and mentorship.

Requirements

• Rising high school seniors in the United States and Puerto Rico.
• Interest in leadership, culture, and community engagement.
• Must be a rising senior in high school.
• Program is open to all races and ethnicities.
• All programming is in English; Spanish is not required.

Benefits

This program offers transformative learning, cultural exploration, and leadership development, exposure to world-class resources, promotion of higher education, development of 21st-century skills (communication, collaboration, critical thinking), hands-on learning, networking with professionals, and access to a strong Alumni Network with continued opportunities.

Location

USA

How to Apply

Applications can be accessed via the provided link.

Deadline

April 10, 2026