Applications for the 2026 Young Ambassador's Program are now open!
Clearwater Sister Cities (CSC) has sponsored a summer middle school Japanese cultural exchange since 2001. This program is designed to enhance a student’s tolerance, self-reliance and global understanding through participation in the Japanese culture with an appreciation of the customs, history and traditions.
Our students are called Young Ambassadors as they represent the best of American youth as they interact with Japanese dignitaries, citizens, teens and families. The Young Ambassadors are required to attend a series of orientation meetings which are designed to help the student learn some customs and the culture of Japan, how to travel abroad without their parents and family and to become more self-reliant.
By making presentations to the Mayor and City Council of Nagano and to CSC upon their return, the students gain self-confidence and learn the art of public speaking. The cultural trips throughout Japan immerse the Young Ambassador in the history and culture of the country. The homestay in Nagano gives the Young Ambassador the opportunity to make memorable friendships and to become personally involved with the language and culture of the residents of Nagano, our Sister City since 1959.
Through this program, our Young Ambassadors become more global and learn that we are alike in many ways, even though our cultures are so different.
The Young Ambassador Program will last about 2 weeks. One week will consist of tourist visits to cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, and Hiroshima. The other week will involve a a homestay, school visits, and cultural experiences in Clearwater's sister city, Nagano.
YOUNG AMBASSADOR REQUIREMENTS:
1. Current middle school student in the Tampa Bay Area
2. Have a current CSC Family Membership (as students and their guardian will attend orientation and events together)
3. Complete the 2026 YA Application. There are two types of open student applications. Only one application per student will be accepted. You must decide which type of application to use before you submit.
A) In partnership with the City of Clearwater, one scholarship of $3,500 is available for
Clearwater student. Applicants must reside in incorporated Clearwater and their grades must be a B average or higher.
The deadline for the City of Clearwater Scholarship is January 3, 2026.
Apply here for the City of Clearwater Scholarship Application(click)
B) The General application is open to all middle schoolers in the Tampa Bay area. Additional funding is available through the CSC Board and details can be found in the application.
The deadline for the General YA Application is January 3, 2026
Apply here for the General YA Application(click)
4. Submit letters of recommendation (2), your personal essay, and two (2) photographs of yourself to csciya@gmail.com by the deadline.
YOUNG AMBASSADOR CHAPERONES:
Each year, we bring on one or two new chaperones for the Young Ambassador Middle School Exchange Program. CSC seeks chaperones who are passionate and experienced in helping students engage in cross-cultural activities, gain new skills, and build confidence through new experiences.
Chaperone Requirements
-Must be at least 25 years old at the departure date
-Must have a current valid US Passport
-Must have or be able to clear a Level Two Background Check
-Must have experience working with student/youth groups
-Must sign and submit a CSC Code of Conduct
-Must be a member of Clearwater Sister Cities
-Must heed to all travel restrictions
If you are interested in learning more or applying, please review the 2026 YA Chaperone Application here (click). Chaperone Applications are due by December 1, 2025.