The YFCI Blog

YFCI Goals for 2011!

2010-12-30T11:55:00.000-06:00

Dear all,

I hope everyone of you is enjoying the holiday season with your friends and your families.
Another year has gone by, and with this we have made a few adjustments to the organization along the way.
We also noticed that some things have not being working properly because we did not follow any guidelines whatsoever. This is why we are now establishing three main goals for this new year.
These are the following:

1) Increase members and staff members' participation in the organization.
How are we going to do this?
Each one of us needs to post more often in the forums and the YFCI Webpage. It's as simple as introducing yourself to other members or sharing a link to an interesting activism site!
2) Expand our monthly visits in the site.
How?
With the collaboration of all our members, we can manage to find more people interested in at least browsing through the YFCI Website. We only need you to give a shout out about us to your friends!
3) Find members willing to collaborate as part of the staff.
How will we do this?
Now this is crucial. If you have been an active member or if you are a new member who wants to help us improve the Website, we are more than glad to have you as part of the staff. We are still in talks about this, but we are going to modify last year's staff and renew it with people who are indeed active in YFCI. Being selected depends entirely upon you!

We hope these goals satisfy you. If they don't, do not hesitate in letting us know!

Regards,

Victoria Maravi
Co-director of YFCI

Videos for a better world: Made by youth, like us!

2009-07-20T12:43:00.003-06:00

Take a look at these great videos, shared with us by YFCI Member and Ambassador Kate Alyzon from the Philippines. She asked her class to create videos that represented the United Nations' Millenium Developement Goals (MDGs). Check them out!

Created by "Orlando Agustin, Arvin Flores, Charles Luna and Karl Yap." Make sure to watch at 2:18, when the video takes a turn and the teenagers realize that THEY CAN DO SOMETHING for the poor. Inspiring and motivational at the same time.

Created by Abuso, Anne, Camille. The second video shows that teens united as one can "LEND A HAND" (reminiscent of our partner organization ABC4ALL's mission statement) and make a difference for many different causes. Bravo!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

All of these videos proclaim the essence of our organization and our goals. Youth for Change International is a movement from youth around the world that are united to create one, just world where people are given respect and humility. Thank you so much to the students of Kate's "Instory" class for sharing this with us!

The YFCI Team, on behalf of the hundreds of youth from around the world in over 80 countries, united as one.

CNN: Witness of Baharestan Square Massacre (Iran Conflict)

2009-06-24T12:19:00.005-06:00

A Witness to the Crackdown on Protesters in Baharestan Square Shares Her Story with CNN (Video Curtesy of CNN) Youth for Change International is a non-political and non-religious organization of young people from around the world that want to express themselves and make a difference.

"I was going towards Baharestan with my friend. This was everyone, not just supporters of one candidate or another. All of my friends, they were going to Baharestan to express our opposition to these killings and demanding freedom. The black-clad police stopped everyone. They emptied the buses that were taking people there and let the private cars go on. We went on until Ferdowsi then all of a sudden some 500 people with clubs came out of [undecipherable] mosque and they started beating everyone. They tried to beat everyone on [undecipherable] bridge and throwing them off of the bridge. And everyone also on the sidewalks. They beat a woman so savagely that she was drenched in blood and her husband, he fainted. They were beating people like hell. It was a massacre. They were trying to beat people so they would die. they were cursing and saying very bad words to everyone. This was exactly a massacre... I don't know how to describe it."

(Witness of attacks; Curtesy CNN International)

What is your reaction to this interview? What is your opinion of the Iranian conflict overall? Share your thoughts, commentary, insider experiences and more.

Click here to post.

Iran: Stop the Crackdown

2009-06-23T15:57:00.009-06:00

Image Curtesy of Getty Images

What do you think about the Iran Election crackdown? Do you think the election was fair? Sound off your opinion at the YFCI Discussions.

Here is a message from our friends at Avaaz.org

------------------------------------------------

Dear Friends,

The crisis in Iran has reached a tipping point. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has warned millions of democracy protesters to be silent or face the consequences, and last night 19 more protesters were killed. Experts warn a massive bloody crackdown is imminent.

Our governments have been cautious, but this is not about taking sides -- everyone should agree that the murder and violent intimidation of peaceful protesters is never acceptable. We need to press all our governments to take a united stand at this historic moment, condemn the crackdown, and withhold recognition of any new Iranian government until the people are permitted to peacefully address their election concerns.

Every day counts -- Top Iranian leaders are split down the middle over whether to support a crackdown, so every bit of pressure matters. Sign the petition below, and forward this email to friends and family -- let's build a massive global outcry of 1 million voices against the crackdown:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/iran_stop_the_crackdown/98.php/?CLICK_TF_TRACK

Some countries like the US have reason to be careful, but Iranian activists say a united international community cannot be so easily dismissed. Our best hope is to show Iran's leaders that a united international community will reject the verdict of a violent crackdown.

We'll publicize the number of signatures in each country, and also deliver our petition directly to the leaders of the EU, Turkey, and Iraq -- Iran's largest trading partners, as well as UN.

Today the hearts and hopes of people around the world are with the protesters facing awful risks on the streets of Iran. Their struggle for democracy and basic rights is our struggle; it's time for us to stand with them.

Youth for Change International is a non-political and non-religious organization.

Obama's Message to the "Islamic World"

2009-06-04T21:50:00.004-06:00

Earlier today, U.S. President Barack Obama made a speech in Cairo that addresses issues that are considered essential in the Middle East, during his 3-day trip to the Middle East.

What's your initial thoughts and opinions after hearing this speech? Add your opinion to the newest thread at the YFCI Discussions. Post your opinion!

Become part of the YFCI Staff!

2009-05-25T20:44:00.003-06:00

youthforchange

become part of the YFCI team!

Dear YFCI Members,

I am proud to annouce that we're ready to begin Youth for Change International's Staff Reorganization, and we're opening up the process to you! Do you want to become part of one of the largest up-and-coming youth-led organizations and help shape its future? Do you have a passion for youth organizations and activism? If you said YES to either of these questions, WE WANT YOU to become part of THE YFCI TEAM!

Find out more information by visiting:

http://www.youth-for-change.org/becomeastaffmember.htm

There are many new staff positions that we want to fill and we want to bring new members onto the "playing field." We want staff to be part of our Member Services, Magazine, Promotion, Partnerships, Discussion Forums, Media Team and many more departments!

We also are introducing a new staff department at YFCI: Our Grassroots Networking Coordinators, who will help connect YFCI members to events and projects in their region!

APPLICATIONS ARE DUE NO LATER THAN JULY 3RD!

We hope this new staff will bring a new era of active participation in this organization, as well as spark more innovation and ideas through a fresh new staff body.

If you're interested, please visit today:

http://www.youth-for-change.org/becomeastaffmember.htm

Thank you very much!

Together, we can make a greater difference!

p.s.: As always, if you have any questions, feel free to contact me at zach@youth-for-change.org with your concerns, comments, suggestions or questions. Thanks so much!

A new kind of cap

2009-04-19T14:26:00.006-06:00

I recieved this email from our friends at the Environmental Defence Fund.

Check out their newest project!

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Meet the mayor of Braddock, PA, John Fetterman.

John Fetterman looks more like he belongs on the Pittsburgh Steelers offensive line than who he really is—a Harvard-educated mayor of a struggling western Pennsylvania steel town.
In Braddock, PA, the hats are hard, just like the economic times. Once called the jewel of the Monongahela, this factory town has seen better days.

That's why Mayor Fetterman is a champion for another kind of cap—a carbon cap. Because John Fetterman knows that capping carbon will put the citizens of his endangered town back to work.

We want all of America to meet John Fetterman and hear his story.

The battle of a lifetime is underway—to cap carbon, to stop global warming, and to put Americans back to work rebuilding our energy economy.

Please don't let the global warming denial machine thwart our efforts. They're sinking hundreds of millions of dollars on propaganda, distortions, and junk science to lobby against us.

The biggest—and to me most offensive—lie the deniers are telling is that capping carbon will cost us jobs. Tell that to Mayor Fetterman and the men and women of Braddock.

Every wind turbine has 8,000 parts and requires 250 tons of steel. With tens of thousands of wind turbines waiting to be built, imagine how many people we'll put back to work when we cap carbon and unleash our clean energy future.

How to Schedule a Meeting with Your Congressman

2009-04-03T21:39:00.000-06:00

I found this very helpful video from our friends at The ONE Campaign. It can help you understand how to start a meeting with your congressperson. It was aimed at people in the United States, but the guide can be used worldwide.

More information at www.one.org

How are you volunteering?

2009-04-01T20:48:00.001-06:00

Get involved with making this world a better place to live in!

Read Volunteer Success Stories from youth like you.
Once you're inspired, find volunteer opportunities that interest you.
Inspire others and tell your story!

Have good opportunities?

2009-03-07T12:43:00.002-06:00

Calling all Opportunities!

Do you know any cool projects? events? websites? Youth for Change International is looking for social activism activites to be added WEEKLY on the YFCI homepage. Just email them to us!

Finally Justice for Darfur!

2009-03-04T20:00:00.005-06:00

Finally Justice for Darfur

ICC Files Arrest Warrants

Press Release: 04.03.2009
ICC issues a warrant of arrest for Omar Al Bashir, President of Sudan
ICC-CPI-20090304-PR394 عربي
Situation: Darfur, Sudan

Today, Pre-Trial Chamber I of the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued a warrant for the arrest of Omar Hassan Ahmad Al Bashir, President of Sudan, for war crimes and crimes against humanity. He is suspected of being criminally responsible, as an indirect (co-)perpetrator, for intentionally directing attacks against an important part of the civilian population of Darfur, Sudan, murdering, exterminating, raping, torturing and forcibly transferring large numbers of civilians, and pillaging their property. This is the first warrant of arrest ever issued for a sitting Head of State by the ICC.

Omar Al Bashir’s official capacity as a sitting Head of State does not exclude his criminal responsibility, nor does it grant him immunity against prosecution before the ICC, according to Pre-Trial Chamber I.

According to the Judges, the above-mentioned crimes were allegedly committed during a five year counter-insurgency campaign by the Government of Sudan against the Sudanese Liberation Movement/Army (SLM/A), the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) and other armed groups opposing the Government of Sudan in Darfur. It is alleged that this campaign started soon after the April 2003 attack on El Fasher airport as a result of a common plan agreed upon at the highest level of the Government of Sudan by Omar Al Bashir and other high-ranking Sudanese political and military leaders. It lasted at least until 14 July 2008, the date of the filing of the Prosecution’s Application for the warrant of arrest for Omar Al Bashir.

A core component of that campaign was the unlawful attack on that part of the civilian population of Darfur – belonging largely to the Fur, Masalit and Zaghawa groups – perceived to be close to the organised armed groups opposing the Government of Sudan in Darfur. The said civilian population was to be unlawfully attacked by Government of Sudan forces, including the Sudanese Armed Forces and their allied Janjaweed Militia, the Sudanese Police Force, the National Intelligence and Security Service and the Humanitarian Aid Commission.

The Chamber found that Omar al Bashir, as the de jure and de facto President of Sudan and Commander-in-Chief of the Sudanese Armed Forces, is suspected of having coordinated the design and implementation of the counter-insurgency campaign. In the alternative, it also found that there are reasonable grounds to believe that he was in control of all branches of the “apparatus” of the State of Sudan and used such control to secure the implementation of the counter-insurgency campaign.

The counts
The warrant of arrest for Omar Al Bashir lists 7 counts on the basis of his individual criminal responsibility (including:
five counts of crimes against humanity: murder; extermination; forcible transfer; torture; and rape, two counts of war crimes: intentionally directing attacks against a civilian population as such or against individual civilians not taking direct part in hostilities and pillaging.

Findings concerning genocide

The majority of the Chamber, Judge Anita Ušacka dissenting, found that the material provided by the Prosecution in support of its application for a warrant of arrest failed to provide reasonable grounds to believe that the Government of Sudan acted with specific intent to destroy, in whole or in part, the Fur, Masalit and Zaghawa groups. Consequently, the crime of genocide is not included in the warrant issued for the arrest of Omar Al Bashir. Nevertheless, the Judges stressed that if additional evidence is gathered by the Prosecution, the decision would not prevent the Prosecution from requesting an amendment to the warrant of arrest in order to include the crime of genocide.

Cooperation of States
The Judges directed the Registrar to prepare and transmit, as soon as practicable, a request for cooperation for the arrest and surrender of Omar Al Bashir to Sudan, and to all States Parties to the Rome Statute and all United Nations Security Council (UNSC) members that are not party to the Statute, as well as to any other State as may be necessary.

The Judges found that, according to UNSC resolution 1593 and articles 25 and 103 of the UN Charter, the obligation of the Government of Sudan to fully cooperate with the Court prevails over any other international obligation that the Government of Sudan may have undertaken pursuant to any other international agreement.

Pre-Trial Chamber I also found that the Government of Sudan has systematically refused to cooperate with the Court since the issuance of warrants for the arrest of the Sudanese Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Ahmad Harun, and a regional Janjaweed militia leader, Ali Kushayb, on 2 May 2007. As a result, the Judges emphasised that, according to article 87(7) of the Statute, if the Government of Sudan continues to fail to comply with its cooperation obligations to the Court, the competent Chamber “may make a finding to that effect” and decide to “refer the matter […] to the Security Council.”

Furthermore, the Judges noted that the dispositive part of UNSC resolution 1593 expressly urges all States, whether party or not to the Rome Statute, as well as international and regional organisations to “cooperate fully” with the Court.

ABC4ALL: Hope

2009-02-21T18:25:00.006-06:00

Help ABC4All get their project approved!

VOTE NOW and tell others! No fee donations to NGOs/nonprofits. Only 32 more votes are needed by March 4th, 2009. This project is to create concerts world-wide to benefit local NGOs in celebration of Barack Obama's historic inauguration.

First: Find out more about this project.

Then: Vote now at GiveMeaning.org.

Once again, please vote now to get this project accepted and working.

Lets do this!

-Zach, on behalf of ABC4ALL

Note: "Obama World" image curtesy of ABC4All. YFCI is a non-political organization, and does not endorse any political party, candidates, or government officials.

2009-02-19T19:59:00.002-06:00

.YFCI Future.

What do you see?

Post your suggestions.

A Tribute to Lincoln

2009-02-12T22:00:00.001-06:00

On Lincoln's 200th Birthday, we celebrate the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, who changed history when he proclaimed the "United States, including the military and naval authority thereof, will recognize and maintain the freedom of such persons, and will do no act or acts to repress such persons, or any of them, in any efforts they may make for their actual freedom." in his famous Emancipation Proclamation.

Enjoy this video viewed on CBS News.

May Lincoln's legacy shape this world free of injustice!

Prayers for Australia // YFCI Members Speaking Out

2009-02-12T21:10:00.006-06:00

Australian Bush Fires

Prayers for the Victims

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Original Email

Hello,

My name is Ash and I just wanted to ask that the YFCI community keep the residents of Victoria, Australia in their minds during this times of crisis.

Bushfires have been sweeping across both NSW and Victoria claiming over 700 homes and a confirmed 84 lives. More lives are suspected to be found lost as emergency service workers make their way through the rubble. Fires are still ablaze now and many people are grieving over the loss of numerous friends and family members.

Friends, children, wives, Husbands, Fathers and Mothers have been lost and the uncovering of more tragedy is looming. I would like to ask the YFCI community to keep these people in their thoughts and prayers.

Thanks a bunch,
Ash

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Letter to YFCI Members: Calling for Action

Dear YFCI Members,

Ash, one of our members, have asked that we pray for our members and the citizens of Australia as they grieve the loss of over 108 people that have died in the Australian bush fires. (CNN)

You are invited to listen to the ONE WORLD Anthem:
http://aworldanthem.org/listen.html

When hard times persist, remember that YOU are part of the movement of youth making a difference in the world.

Please keep our friends in Australia in your thoughts.

-YFCI

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
From: Richard
To: Youth for Change Intl.

Thanks for the mail. We are very sorry for Ash and his country and we shall keep them in our prayers.

Richard from Africa-Uganda.

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From: Bizimana Mzee Dieudonné

I'm so sorry for not responding on time. I was so occupiie with my school examinations. But, I find this moment to present my condolences to Ash and the whole country. I let [them] know that we pray for them!

Mzee
From Burundi-Africa

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From: Peter Wilibroad, Executive Director of Kagera Youth Forum

Promosingly, without any doubt, that we are to pray for our friends and the entire community of Australia. May the almighty God,rest those who have passed inh ghis eternity life. Amen.

Wilibroad Peter
Bukoba,Tanzania

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From: Halimah Isma

I'm so sorry to hear that. I hope our brothers and sisters that safe from the fire be patient in facing it, and pray for the people that burned be received beside of him (God). Amen.

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From: Mzee

I am so awful sorry of hearing that happen and I continue to pray for them. May Allah have them in the right place! Amen.
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From: Chibuike

I am very sorry for the tragedy that has befallen our members in Australia. I pray that God in his infinite mercy and will see them through.
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Thanks to all who have prayed. Together we can empower the world.
Youth for Change International is a non-religious and non-political youth-led organization.

Spotlight: Global Oneness Project

2009-01-30T20:02:00.001-06:00

The Global Oneness Project is exploring how the radically simple notion of interconnectedness can be lived in our increasingly complex world. Since 2006, we've been traveling the globe gathering stories from creative and courageous people who base their lives and work on the understanding that we bear great responsibility for each other and our shared world.

Our living library of films is available for free from our website, through select broadcast outlets, and on DVD. Through events and educational materials we offer opportunities for people to deepen their experience with the different facets of oneness we are exploring.

We hope that by showing the diverse ways oneness is expressed—in the fields of sustainability, conflict resolution, spirituality, art, economics, indigenous culture, and social justice—others will be inspired to create solutions to personal and community challenges from their own lived understanding of oneness.

Learn more about this opportunity.

The Presidential Pledge

2009-01-19T20:06:00.000-06:00

MySpace Celebrity and Katalyst present The Presidential Pledge

Hey all,

I came across the following:Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore have started a campaign of presidential pledges. A lot of celebrities are featured in it (including Alyssa Milano which was how I found it) and they all pledge to do things to help make a change for a better future but WE can help too! We can pledge things to. From small to big..And all because they (and I think we do too) believe that Obama can't make that change on his own we all have to pitch in..

We all have take our responsibility:

For the video and explanation check this site:
www.myspace.com/presidentialpledge

Just thought I'd let you all know!

-Jenny from the Netherlands

Happy New Year 2009!

2009-01-05T15:06:00.006-06:00

On behalf of the entire YFCI community, I want to wish all of you a warm, joyous and prosperous 2009. Lets make YFCI even better this new year.

Thanks so much for your dedication,

Zach K.,
on behalf of the
YFCI Staff Members.

P.S.: Here is a little New Year treat for us all: I hope you like the new look of the blog!

Did you know that...?

2008-12-21T14:13:00.002-06:00

Hey guys! Hope everyone is having a great day! Welll....

Did you know you can actually post a song DIRECTLY to "Music with a Mission" directory? You probably didn't, so here's the scoop.

1) Just go to http://www.freewebs.com/youthforchange/apps/videos/, where you can see all of the current songs listed as music with a purpose.

2) To add your own music video of a song (on YouTube), click "Register" and follow the directions on the screen.

3) After you've finished registering, click "Post a video", add the URL to the YouTube video, and select which world issue (category) it fits in.

Lets compile this list, guys!

Write an Article

2008-12-07T17:21:00.002-06:00

Hello members of YFCI! We hope everyone is having a pleasant school year so far.

We want to remind you that you can STILL submit articles, photos, poems, country essays and more to our annual Alpha! magazine, an online publication for YFCI members.

Please click here to find out more information.

Mumbai: Our Members Speak Out

2008-11-29T14:44:00.008-06:00

In an email sent yesterday to the entire Youth for Change International member base, we hoped to bring together our members to support India through this hard time. I sent this email to our members in India, especially Mumbai:

"On behalf of our 400 members from around the world, and our 13 staff members, I want to give you our humble condolences for the attacks on your nation. We pray that your families and friends are well and safe. We are all praying for the rebuilding of peace in your country. Some of our partners are also sending messages to their members praying for peace as well. Please stay safe. Thank you."

I thought that would probably be the end of it, but little did I know that 9 other members would echo the message and send their support for our members. It was amazing to see the power kindness and sympathy together creating compassion and action for India.

"Thank you for your mail. Together the humanity having faith in non-violence can change the world with our committed work. In solidarity, C. Asokan, M.A.,M.Phil."

"It is with great dissapointment that we get to see the culture of terror and destruction still on in the world. The people of India, just like others, have suffered over an attack that is so mallicious and unthinkable. My heart goes out to the people of India in these trying times. Your hurt is mine and I hope that God answers the sincere prayers of many like me that we are all one and we need peace among us. -Hakim Musa"

"Dear Friends, It is indeed a melonchlic state of affairs in the Indo-Pak region with the current wave of terror attacks. It is strongly condemed and hope that all our fellows out there are well and so are their loved ones. God Bless you all. -Ayesha Riaz, YFCI Pakistan Ambassador"

"To all the YFCI Members Around the World, Thanks a lot for your kind gesture. We in India are really shocked and are trying to keep our spirits alive. Once again, thanks for your concern. -Ronald D. Ernest"

"From one fo India's many great gifts to the world, Buddhism: Conquer anger by love. Conquer evil by good. Conquer the mean by generosity. Conquer the liar by truth.. Never in the world is hatred conquered by hatred: hatred is conquered by love. Dhammapada (Book of Buddhist teachings) verse 223."-Sent by Robert Mulhall

"Indeed, our collective prayers may reach the Lord, especially at this time of trouble in India but also in other countries that are facing the same problem. Guys, with the help we have and in what ever simple way we can do lots of help to those who need us -Rhye Ysais"

"Thank you so much. We all need your prayers here with us today and forever. Hoping and Praying everyone on this world stays safe. -Nabila Z. Zaidi"

I hope that this spirit and love do not end here, because there are so many problems in this world that need to be fixed. Lets stand together and end them.

Thank you,

Zach K.,
Youth for Change International

Our message to India

2008-11-27T22:29:00.000-06:00

Dear members,

Please read the following message sent from our partner, A Better Community for All. I have emailed our members from India to wish them luck in this troubled time, and to make sure their families are okay.

Please pray and think of our members in India, and the nation of India as they go through these hard times. You can also light a candle (see below) in memory of the lives lost.

Humbly,

Zach Komes
on behalf of the
Youth for Change International Staff

----Our email to members in India-----
From: Youth for Change International
Subject: To our members in India

Dear YFCI Members in India,

This is Zach from Youth for Change International. In newspapers around the world this morning, the front pages showed Mumbai under fire. On behalf of our 400 members from around the world, and our 13 staff members, I want to give you our humble condolences for the attacks on your nation.

We pray that your families and friends are well and safe. We are all praying for the rebuilding of peace in your country. Some of our partners are also sending messages to their members praying for peace as well.

Please stay safe.

Thank you.

----- Forwarded Message from ABC4ALL ----
From: Yuel Bhatti (Pakistan), A Better Community for All
Subject: Light a Candle for Peace in India

Dear Friends in India,

The below news is for all mankind. We the people from Pakistan stronglycondemn such violence wherein the Innocent Humanity are being killed withoutany reason. Every religion taught us the lesson of Peace and Love for allmankind. Let's join in meditation and prayers for victims in Bomb Blasts in differentareas of Mumbai. Deeply heartily felt condolence to the grieving and we prayfor quick healing of the injured and victims. May God help the IndianGovernment to handle the situation and enforce law and order!

I have lit a candle...

Click here to see the candlehttp://www.gratefulness.org/candles/view.cfm?l=eng&c=7232519

To light a candle: http://ABC4All.net/lightacandle.htm

May Peace be in India! May Peace Prevail on Earth!

Yuel Bhatti
"Peace Advocate"
Co-Founder Local ABC4All / PAKISTAN

Latest Email

2008-06-30T10:40:00.000-06:00

Dear all,

We all have busy summers ahead. This is a great opportunity to get things done, and also enjoy being outside with great weather (hopefully!). There are several updates I would like to announce:

YFCI ALPHA! Magazine~ We need submissions for this year's issue of Alpha. Anu Maheshwari, Editor, hopes to have it published by August.. so please send articles. Here are some ideas, and guidelines for submission:

- Country Reports: All Ambassadors who want to be considered Ambassadors must write at least one article. Many choose to write reports about their own country's culture, educational system, food, human rights conflicts, youth activities, and other information. If you article is very well done, it could be featured as the Featured Country of this year's issue. Should be from 100-900 words, and double spaced.

- Poems: In the past, we have had many wonderful poems in our newsletter. We hope to have at least a couple poems for our next issue. Poems do not have to be professional, just something with meaning and expression. Poems should be 5-30 words.

- Art and Photography: You may submit paintings, photos of artwork, and photography. The only requirement is that the topic should be keeping in terms with YFCI magazine frame. For photos, please submit them pre-sized. There is no exact guideline for the number of pixels, but please have them medium-sized. We are looking for interesting clips which capture something unique about their respective countries, or highlight a specific issue. It could be anything from traditional dance, nature, people celebrating a festival, or issues like poverty, war, drugs, etc. All photos will also be used in the Omega File online photography gallery.

- YFCI Activities Reports: If you are a staff member, it would be cool if you could write a report outlining the year's past activities, accomplishments, and/or inspirations. Reports should be at least 50 words if about a specific project, and at least 150 words if about YFCI activities in general.

Send all articles and photos to Anu Maheshwari, at yfci_editor@yahoo.com

Bloggers for YFCI~ Are you a blogger who wants to spread the word about YFCI? You can become part of Bloggers for YFCI! Just put one of our logos/banners on your blog, or write an article about YFCI on your blog.. or both! Then, send an email to me, at zkomes@sbcglobal.net. Your blog's link will be posted on a special YFCI page. We also need someone to coordinate this project. So if you are interested, please contact me.

Website Help~ If you are an experienced website creator, and can make our organization a CSS template, it will greatly effect how our members help! Please contact me if you can help even a little with website templates, forum look, and image creating.

Videos Needed~ We also could use people to submit videos to continue to keep our YouTube page updated. If you can make short PSAs or videos about a world issue, it would be much appreciated.

When we stand together as one world, great things happen.

Thank you so much!

Zach Komes

April is upon us!

2008-04-11T11:53:00.003-06:00

Hello All! I hope everyone is having a wonderful April. We have several updates:

- The OMEGA File has now been launched. The website is a place for YFCI members to submit their photography, and have it seen across the globe. If that sounds interesting, go to T.O.F's website, by clicking here.

- We are soon going to have a "Bloggers for YFCI" project, which will help promote our organization through our members' blogs. If you are interested in helping create this project, please don't hesitate to contact me (zkomes[at]sbcglobal.net)

- Haris has decided to lead the Member Griefances Department, which will help our global moderators with rules, banning, etc. We still are getting the odds and ends together. If you have any suggestions, contact us.

May we ALL have a great April,

Zach Komes
Executive Director

January-March Wrap Up

2008-04-01T19:01:00.007-06:00

Dear all members,

You might remember last month, February, we annouced our number of hits per month was down to 950 (the worst YFCI has ever seen, since we started to rapidly increase). I am happy to say, in the Month of March, that YOU have helped YFCI get back on track, with 1428 hits (504 up from February). Thank you so much, it is a big relief :-)

As for new projects, I am creating a new project called "The YFCI Peace Train", which will aim to actually get youth out in the community making a difference. Different from our "Volunteer Stories" project, this will actually give youth several steps for action. Teens will be able to commit themselves, and give their ideas of how they want to make a difference. My goal is to be able to send several packets with information (that will also be found online) to people who are interested, free with a small donation. ABC4ALL has also agreed to participate in this project. Stay tuned.. I hope to officially launch this in Late Apri/Early May.

In other YFCI news, there has been another user-made video submitted by Yubupa, a member from our affiliate ABC4ALL, which outlines several of YFCI's projects. Click here to see it on YouTube. You are invited to create your own video as well. Please send them to zkomes@sbcglobal.net, and we will post it on the YFCI Official YouTube Page, and on our website's YFCiTube page.

We have also created The YFCI Language Center, on the YFCI forums, where members can learn and teach the languages of the world. Currently (as of April 1st), you can learn Spanish, Greek, Dutch, and Arabic from native speakers.. FREE. Forget paying for that book or learning software; enjoy The YFCI Language Center!

Enjoy the new projects. If you are interested in helping YFCI out, click here for some talents we are looking for. As always, to make a donation, contact me.

Kindest Regards,

Zach Komes
Executive Director

Latest News from YFCI

2008-02-11T20:50:00.000-06:00

The past month or so has been pretty laid back at YFCI. With our staff's busy school schedules, our website has not been updated in a while. I'm sorry for that, of course, but this is a great opportunity to ask for your help. If you know of any opportunities, websites, images, or anything you think would be cool on our website, feel free to contact us at youthforchange@hotmail.com.

We have got somethings accomplished, though; so here they are:

- Project YAY, our partnership group for YOMI/ABC4ALL/YFCI, launched several chats in the last months. Click here to find summaries and transcripts. YAY has also launched an Advisory Committee, which will help enablize possibilities and collaboration. The UYCW volunteered to become part of it as well.

- The new humanitarian magazine directory is here, click here to visit. The mag directory features magazines that promote change. For our website directory, scroll down to next post.

- The Vegetarian Week event was a great success, with many YFCI members not eating meat for one whole week (I know I couldn't have done it!). Make sure to give those who participated a virtual round-of-applause, and check out their reports here.

Thanks for being part of our organization. We hope to bring you new ideas and updates in the near future. Stay tuned.

Zach Komes
Founder/Executive Director

P.S.: As always, if you'd like to make a donation, contact me for more information.

2007 Wrap-Up! Happy New Year!

2008-01-07T20:09:00.000-06:00

Dear all members, staff, and partners,

Thank you so much for your participation with YFCI this past year. It has been very everlasting and inspiring, and we thank you for all your help! We had our share of struggle, but that did not make it a bad year.

Noor Al Zubaidy, from Oman, reviews this year well:

"A new page is now on our website publishing our members' volunteering stories. The page aims to encourage young people to volunteer in their own communities. Like the saying goes 'Think globally, Act locally.'

We have created our own clubs at YFCI where members can kick back and relax, discussing their passions whether they're books, music, movies, sports, tv shows. The Games Forum has been added to our forums so that our members can have fun playing some nice games. These forum games have been very popular.

We have gained new partners:
- United Youth Committee of the World
- Young People We Care
- Students for Global Democracy - Uganda
- Youth Creating Change - Ghana

New staff members:
- Haris, Awareness Director and Co-Founder of the UYCW
- Victoria, Green Dream Project Coordinator and Video Editor
- Andrea, YFCI Contributor and Promotion Video Editor
- Justin Wilkerson, Youth Empowerment Director

And our project E-Z Coffee Stand raised $750 US for Heifer International; which is quite an achievment. The stand donated 2 llamas, a goat, and a waterbuffalo though the Heifer Project.

It has been an eventful year for YFCI, thanks to everyone who believes in the message of YFCI. YFCI is still growing and I hope every year brings success and growth to YFCI and its members."

Thank you so much for your participation in YFCI. We appreciate every post, thought, and idea that made 2007 a wonderful year for Youth for Change International.

Much Thanks,

The YFCI Team

Great Way to Surf the Net!

2007-12-12T21:01:00.000-06:00

Ever wonder how many social-change websites there are out there? We did some research and added some of our new-and-old favorites! From Change.org, to Zaadz; this is a great directory for your use. You'll find online communities, social networks, and even a design website. All of the websites have YFCI profiles or listings on them, so you can spread the word about YFCI through that website.

Click here to visit the all new Directory.

But that's not all! You can even nominate your favorite social-change communities and social networking websites. Just email me at zkomes [at] sbcglobal.net, and I'll add your favorite website link, a preview, and a brief description.

We hope you enjoy this new directory. Have Fun!

Zach Komes
Executive Director

P.S.: You can also download a YFCI toolbar to keep informed with YFCI projects, easy access to our links, a pop-up blocker, and more. YFCI earns money every time you download, so Download it today!

Happy Birthday YFCI! Celebration Wrap-Up

2007-12-02T13:26:00.000-06:00

Dear members, staff members, and partners,

I would like to thank all those who participated in the Founding Week 2007 Celebrations. Even doing things as simple as visiting the website to see the featured page of the day is greatly appreciated. Staff members put many hours in creating pages, sending articles, and writing responces to make this founding celebration a special one. We discovered the past, present, and future of Youth for Change International.

I would like to thank Mike Munabi, current Awareness Director, Noor Al Zubaidy, our Member Services Coordinator, and everyone who submitted a testimonial to the "How has YFCI influenced you?" page. I would also like to thank Anupreet Kaur, who helped organize the celebration.

Here was the schedule of events:

Sunday: Special Balloons on the homepage
Monday: Chatroom embedded in the Discussion Forum
Tuesday: YFCI's History, written by Zach Komes
Wednesday: YFCI in 2007, written by Noor Al Zubaidy
Thursday: YFCI's Future, written by Mike Munabi
Friday: How has YFCI influenced you? [thanks to everyone!]
Saturday: Day of Rest, no events posted
Sunday: This blog post thanking those who participated

But now that Founding Week is over, it does not mean that we should not continue participating in YFCI's projects. New updates are on our way; A promotion video, Annoucement of the Be the Change Awards winners, and a challenge to be vegetarians for a week. You see? It may be over, but the future will still happen.

Therefore, I personally hope you enjoyed the Youth for Change International birthday celebration. We are, in fact, Two years old now. Lets make it a thousand!

Kindest Regards,

Zach Komes
Executive Director

P.S.: Want to make YFCI go even further? Donate a couple dollars to help cover the costs of running an international organization. Email me for more information.

Several Updates

2007-11-20T19:55:00.000-06:00

I would like to update you on what happened during the first YFCI Online Staff-Only Meeting. We discussed several ideas that have come up on YFCI, and would like to ask for your help in meeting them.

- As you know, we will soon be celebrating Founding Week 2007. We will need volunteers to write articles, submit their change photos, and help create a wonderful celebration of YFCI's past, present, and future (this year's theme). YOU can HELP by emailing me at zkomes@sbcglobal.net.

- Soon, after founding week, we will also be creating a survey which will ask members important questions on how we can make YFCI a better organization. If you know of any free survey makers (without any ads, or for a limited time), we are interested in creating the survey using it.

- The United Youth Committee of the World will join on to the Advisory Board of Project Y.A.Y, a partnership group co-founded by Youth for Change International. The Advisory Board will help Project YAY, which's mission is to succeed in Youths on the Move International, A Better Community for All, and Youth for Change International's missions. The UYCW will also become project partners of The Green Dream Initiative, YFCI's informative project on climate change.

- And finnally; the One Big Charity Organization, which is coordinated by Noor, will be in contact with the UNICEF office in Oman for possible collaboration or support. OBCO aims to fundraise in local schools for the UNICEF HIV/AIDS Campaign worldwide.

Thank you for your continued support,

Zach Komes
Executive Director

October Wrap-up

2007-11-03T16:08:00.000-06:00

Dear All,

Thanks allot for continuing to be part of YFCI. Last month we had several accomplishments, and new updates.

- Youth for Change International officially annouced this week that it will be collaborating with the United Youth Committee of the World, a new group of youth that came together on UNICEF's Voices of Youth forum. In the coming months, we'll hopefully organize something together.

- Be the Change Awards 2007 came to a close. The judges, and chairperson Anupreet Kaur, will be judging the submissions, and deciding what will be done to honor the participants. Currently, the issue is what the prize will be (we don't have enough money to purchase prizes). The winners WILL be published in the next issue of Alpha Magazine, the YFCI quarterly publication.

- For the YFCI Forums, we gained several new active members including: OregonElephant, and Asher. We will be having a YFCI Staff meeting later this month, with several things that were mentioned on the discussion forum.

- The hit total of October was 1,945 website hits. We hope to get alteast 2,000 hits this month.

Kindest Regards,

Zach Komes
Executive Director

YFCI Updates

2007-10-19T21:24:00.001-06:00

Dear All,

Thank you for your support in Youth for Change International, and our projects. We appreciate all the feedback we get from you. I would like to update you on some current events that are happening throughout YFCI.

- Be the Change Awards 2007 will be coming to a close; SOON. If you are still interested in the project, and would like to submit, the submission deadline is October 31st. Once again; you can submit poetry, photography, artwork, inspirational articles, and more. Click here to go to the Be the Change Awards 2007 website.

- The Fall Thread of the Month winner goes to... Huda Al Zubaidy, from Oman, with her "Do people really change?" thread. This thread drew 13 responces, and over 280 page views. Congratulations Huda! This month's thread award was hosted by Andrea, from Peru. Thank you to you both.

- Youth for Change International welcomed several new active users to our online discussion forum. Among them was Gemini, Chuckwudiobi, and Ranjith Arun. Andrea, one of our contributors from Peru, also created beautifully-designed web banners to promote the forums. Go here to see them.

- YFCI also created the Volunteer Page!, where youth can post their experiences with volunteering. This project has highlighted experiences from Peru, the Netherlands, the United States, and Greece. You are encouraged to take part in this project, by posting your experience here.

Just a few updates. We will try to keep this blog updated. Thank you for participating in Youth for Change International!

Zach Komes
Executive Director

PS: If you are interested in sponsoring YFCI, or making a donation to help subdue the cost of running an international org., please feel free to contact me at zkomes@sbcglobal.net. Thanks!

Alpha Magazine , August Issue

2007-06-27T11:25:00.000-06:00

Dear YFCI members and staff,

I hope you all enjoyed your vacations. I hope you also enjoyed the last edition of YFCI summer edition of Alpha Magazine.

It’s time to surge ahead to the next Edition of Alpha Magazine. This time I thought it would be interesting to dedicate a section of the Magazine to a very urgent issue that our world needs to address at the moment. After experiencing a scorching summer where temperature rocketed to 49 Degree Celsius, I felt it was the need of the hour to concentrate on the issue of “Global Warming”.
At YFCI as you all know we encourage country specific articles and reports on issues, so I would like members to conduct a research on the effects of Global warming on their own country or neighbourhood. You can concentrate on the following things for a start;
1. Changes in weather and temperature patterns over the century.
2. Sectors (Industries/household/ farming/etc) which are the largest contributors of the emission of Carbon Dioxide and other harmful gases.
3. The treatment of industrial waste and the regulatory measures for controlling the damage caused to the environment.
4. Contribution of the household sector in the greenhouse effect (a sector which is often neglected) and possible measures to reduce it.
5. Vehicular emission
6. Counter measures to control greenhouse effect ( Existing and proposed)
7. Suggestions to minimize the damage caused.

The above suggestions are given only to help you all in your research and study.
We here at YFCI also welcome people who do not believe in the concept of Global Warming and say that it is a conspiracy to exhort money in the name of research.

You are also welcome to present your views against the concept. The basic submission guidelines are available here ( http://www.freewebs.com/yfcimag/submissionguidelines.htm).
In addition we encourage members to attach relevant photos or paintings or cartoons which can be featured alongside their writings. The picture/cartoon/painting adjudged the most interesting will find special mention in the magazine and the member will earn points on the YFCI discussion board J
Apart from the theme mentioned above the members can still submit country specific articles on the issues mentioned here (http://www.freewebs.com/yfcimag/submissionguidelines.htm ) Please check out the submission guidelines. The last date for submission is July 20, 2007.
Please mail your writings and contributions to the Editor-in-Chief, YFCI Magazine at yfci_editor@yahoo.com

So please hurry!!!! Time is running out!!!!!!

Best,

Anu Maheshwari
Editor-in-Chief

P.S . Please send the writings in Times New Roman font size 12 .

The YFCI Logo Contest

2007-04-25T13:50:00.000-06:00

As a part of the first year since founding celebrations, The Logo Contest was created. The winning logo was to be the official logo for YFCI for a whole year. Four members contributed in creating logos to be chosen as the 'official logo' for Youth For Change International. Seven logos were created for the contest, members showed a great amount of excitement about the contest, all was very eager to know the results too.

Our moderator 'winmsn' created two logos. Our ambassador from Malaysia 'fathiamar' created four logos. Our members 'evilslayer' and 'sohuda' collaborated and created one. It was an opportunity for our members to show their creativity in creating logos. The winner was to be given 10 karmas and would receive a certificate from YFCI. The winner was announced on the second of March and was no other than our member 'fathiamar'. His logo A4 won the contest, he received 10 karmas and a certificate from YFCI.

Now you can see the logo on our website, communities on social networks such as bebo and orkut. The existing logo is YFCI's special mark now and will remain so for the rest of the year. The other participants were also given certificates. The contest spread some competitive spirit among members and spiced up things at our boards. Everyone used to check the 'logos' thread very regularly to see if there was any update concerning the contest.

It is our seal now.

Noor Alzubaidy

Member Services Coordinator

A New Idea!

2007-03-12T06:37:00.000-06:00

MILWAUKEE, WIS, USA- Youth for Change International will be holding joint conferences with partner "A Better Community for All". Thanks to Justin Wilkerson who also contributed this idea. Justin joined as our "Youth Empowerment Director" and will be working with YFCI to create new ideas. Give us your input! We might be able to hold a chage on 4/21, as I will be out of town for 2 weeks. Please contribute, thanks.

Zach Komes
Executive Director

Making a Difference Games

2007-02-23T23:49:00.000-06:00

Rather than signing in to our Runescape or Second Life, as I know we all do, we have created a directory of change-role playing games (MP-RPG). When your not checking email, or posting on the YFCI Boards, play these amazing change-games. From "Karma Tycoon" to "Peace Maker", we've got it.

Do you know of a game that deals with making a difference? Please email youthforchange [at] hotmail [dot] com.

Launch

Spotlight: (Product) RED

2007-02-17T00:10:00.001-06:00

With 39.5 Million people living with AIDS in the world, we have just recently begun starting to take action. Many campaigns are out there, but The (RED) Campaign is one unique endeavor striding to make a difference against HIV/AIDS.

What's it all about?, How does it work?; your probably asking. Created by the singing activist Bono and Chairman of DATA Bobby Shriver, they partner with "ironic brands" (Apple, Motorola, GAP) and a percent of the profits are donated to the Global Fund. Even top corporations like American Express have partnered with this extraordinatry company.

(RED) believes you really CAN make things happen. So the next time you are considering buying an iPod or cell phone, check out (RED). Do the (RED) Thing!

What do YFCI members enjoy doing for leisure?

2007-02-07T22:05:00.000-06:00

We are all trying to make this world a better place to live in. We don't know if we're going to change it or not. But we are trying.
Each and every one of us has a life. And we all have to live it. With its difficulties, still we try and move on with life.
So we asked our members about the things that they enjoy doing and we asked them about the things that help them in carrying on with life.

Here are the things that some of our members like doing:

*SoHuda:
"I like writing, watching movies and listening to music because these things get me out of reality for sometime..."

*Zach:
"I like to scuba dive/snorkel, travel, watch TV/movie, go online, play board games and I also like acting."

*Darkme:
"Reading is my favorite thing, I can get lost when I read. I also like talking to
my friends, being with people and listening to music..."

*Nibir:
"I like debating most, traveling and listening to music and I also like mouthwatering food."

*Alyssamilanofan:
"What I love to do is to: read, listen to music, watch TV and movies and I also love football and the best thing in the world for me is Alyssa Milano and Charmed. They've helped me in so many ways, they're both absolutely the best."

*Fathiamar:
"I love to read. I love to talk. I love to drive around and go places. I like to watch people and talk to them whenever I can so that I would understand. For me, everyone is clever, which means, no stupid people living. I might have a degree but I'm not as clever as the gardener whom only has a primary school education in gardening. These types of things intrigue me most. I like to think. Sometimes it gets out of my mind."

*AK:
"I enjoy are reading, writing, debating and discussing issues, watching the news, quizzing, observing, learning, collecting quotes and proverbs and surfing the net."

*Hekatea:
"I love to: read, write, travel, cook, meet people and drink coffee."

*Note - These are screen names of our members from the YFCI Online Discussion Forums - http://www.yfciforum.co.nr

We'd like to thank our staff member & good friend Huda for presenting & compiling this list.

So now you see that here at Youth For Change International, we not only work together to make a difference, but also have fun along the way!So if you want to make the world a better place, want to express your opinions and at the same time, make friends with young people from different parts of the world - then join YFCI today!

Thank you,

Anupreet Kaur

Spotlight: Light Up the World

2007-02-01T20:32:00.000-06:00

Presenting..

High-Speed Internet

Dial Up Internet

"Light up the World" is a Global Server of Organizations around the world. Thousands of groups, including Youth for Change International, are featured on this wonderful website. All of the groups take a stand for sane and fair political, environmental, and economic future of our planet.

This very interactive website even allows you to spin the globe and browse many different organizations, charities, groups, campaigns and foundations that are listed on a "light". To make it easier, you can also view groups by country. YFCI is a international organization, but has been listed under USA, which is where our main office is (AKA: My Bedroom).

To find Milwaukee on the globe, you will need to know where it is. Spin the globe west (your left) until you hit the USA. If you know where Lake Michigan is, our "light" is located to the west of it. If you need more help, see the this image ->

So.. Check this out, this is a wonderful website!

"YFCI Spotlights" will highlight partners and other organizations around the globe.

Thank you,

Zach Komes

Our Hopes for the New Year...

2007-01-25T09:23:00.000-06:00

Time rolls by.Day passes out giving room to light.Seasons follow each other perfectly.Similiarly, the previous year passes out to make way for the New Year to usher in.Yes!2006 has passed and now we're in 2007, a brand new year!

New year brings new hopes, new aspirations and fresh vision.Here at YFCI, we asked everyone what were their hopes, aspirations, concerns or wishes for the New Year.And here's what some of our members had to say...

ABOUT THEMSELVES & THEIR LIVES:

"Well, let me see!What do I hope for me and my life?To know more about myself and my abilities!And I hope to know more about how life works even if its just a little bit!"

- Huda, from Oman

"I really hope I continue to do good in school, but mainly continue to have a good life and continue making a difference."

- Zach, from USA

"I want to continue my childhood dream which is to become an International Lawyer. I also hope I can work with an international NGO where I could serve, write and travel at the same time."

- Hekatea, from Phillipines

"Well, I would like to keep my studies and my personal life, going well!Just keep everything on the right track!"

- Noor, from Oman

"To be more organised and manage my time effectively.I'd like to be more focussed and set my priorities right.Stop worrying and have more faith in myself and my abilities.To try to think positively and hope for the best."

- Anupreet, from India

"To learn more and get involved in issues that will help positive the earth for me to live my life cool at this west end."

- Plato, from Nigeria

"Well I hope I'll pass this year of school, that I can make more of a difference to the world. I'd really to go to Los Angeles but I don't think that'll be anything soon, I'd really like to meet Alyssa and Oprah but that's not going to happen anytime soon either would be nice if it could though."

- Jenny, from Netherlands

"Learn more...Understand more...Do more..."

- nairobian, from Canada

ABOUT THEIR COUNTRY OR COMMUNITY:

"I hope everyone lives in peace!And for my country, I hope all the best and get rid of the terrorists!"

- Huda, from Oman

"To get out of Iraq, Afganistan. To stop the war on poverty in this country. To stop the war in Washington (politically that is)."

- Zach, from USA

"I wish people in my country are more compassionate and patriotic. I wish there will be less corruption, envy and greed especially in the government (technically speaking). Also, I wish the youth will participate in changing the community to be a better place to live in."

- Hekatea, from Phillipines

"Just to keep everything going peacefully!"

- Noor, from Oman

"I hope the people stop fighting over the issues of caste and religion.Equality and harmony be promoted.Justice is made equally available to both rich and the poor.And the youth should be more actively involved to work for the betterment of their communities and the country.Its time we stopped blaming the government and take initiative ourselves.Everyone should try to make a difference on their own level in whatever way they can."

- Anupreet, from India

"To see that every child in my community has free access to education, medical treatments and is able to eat at least two meals a day."

- Plato, from Nigeria

"I hope that we get new elections and that the government we get, will finally start caring about the people instead of the money. And that the growing poverty in my country will stop. And that the economy will start to work for everyone and not just the rich people. I hope we'll stay safe from terrorist attacks.And one more thing, we have had a lot of murders in the past year, especially among children so I hope that'll stop as well."

- Jenny, from Netherlands

"I hope Canada stops charging so much for immigration because its really not fair. I hope the government shuffle does some good for the country. I hope people from my (ethnic) community are able to fit in properly and succeed here and fulfill all their dreams. I hope Kenya stays out of the Ethiopia/Somalia war, and smoke out all the corruption that plagues the amazing country.. And I also hope elections there go well..."

- nairobian, from Canada

ABOUT THE WORLD AND THIS PLANET IN GENERAL:

"Well I just hope that some big people with powers know the problems of the world and do something to stop them!!As simple as that is!"

- Huda, from Oman

"For the youth of the world to continue to show enthusiasm in making the world a better place..."

- Zach, from USA

"No more war. Fewer atrocities. Be more open to differences of beliefs and practices."

- Hekatea, from Phillipines

"Hopefully we will be able to solve environmental issues and try and erase poverty!And make peace happen."

- Noor, from Oman

"The countries should stop meddling in the affairs or matters of other countries.The possibilities of war and conflict should be avoided.Please live and let live!Please stop destroying the very planet that sustains us."

- Anupreet, from India

"I'm praying for cool understanding of one another, by stop fighting with each other. Secondly,to make sure that water is available to the world inhabitants."

- Plato, from Nigeria

"I hope we get to find something to stop the global warming, since it's already becoming a problem and it's rising fast.I hope we'll have less wars and attacks. I hope we'll get a good breakthrough on poverty and diseases like HIV/AIDS.I hope that no more people have to fear for their lives because of wars and fights and that no more children and innocent people will have to die because of this. And I hope we'll be spared from disasters like Katrina or the Tsunami."

- Jenny, from Netherlands

"I hope more effort is put into saving our environment because that should be our No. 1 concern now since its affecting all of us..."

- nairobian, from Canada

All of us here, not only hope for personal growth and fulfillment, but are also concerned about the world and the problems that are plaguing it.We hope our dreams are fulfilled and our world changes for the better, not only for this year, but for all the years to come!

Hoping for the best...here's wishing all of you a very Happy and Prosperous New Year - 2007!

Kindest Regards,

Anupreet Kaur

YFCI Contributor

Greening Up the World!

2007-01-22T21:19:00.000-06:00

Members from 24% of the world

Here is the updated Member Map. All of the countries that a "greened up" are part of our organization and are giving an effort to Make a Difference. You CAN Make a Difference,
Join Today!

How can WE Help?

2007-01-16T18:59:00.000-06:00

We all want to make a difference in the world, right? Well, we've gathered a list of places you can go within YFCI and how you can get involved in the Youth Campaign for a Better World.

Step One- Join the hundreds of youth around the world combatting the issues that trouble our earth and making a difference in their communities. Join Now

Step Two- Start discussing the issues and how we can make a change by visiting the YFCI Forum Community. Launch the Online Forums

Step Three- Submit to the YFCI Member Magazine, where Youth write to Youth. Visit the magazine website here.

Step Four- Get involved with our projects such as Be the Change Awards, the project where you submit YOUR photos, artwork, writing, and more! OR get involved with One Big Charity Organization, a project of the Members of YFCI that help raise money for UNICEF's Campaign against AIDS.

Step Five- Become affiliated with our Organization Partners such as A Better Community for All, the campaign for the betterment of communities around the world. Find out more

You really CAN 'Be the Change you want to see in the World'. Make an effort to Make A Difference in your community, country, your world.

Leaders of Tomorrow,

Making A Difference Today

From the Editor

2007-01-07T08:26:00.000-06:00

Hello Friends,

I hope you are all doing great in the brand new year!

The past year has been very fruitful for YFCI, with many new projects taking root and many young minds joining the team.
One of our ventures, YFCI quarterly magazine is back again asking for your contributions to make it yet another enriching pool of ideas and thoughts which YFCI members can share with each other.

All of us at YFCI, should work together to bring forth the second edition of YFCI magazine and the first in the year 2007. As it was last time, we are going to release the new updated list of Ambassadors at YFCI. And hence, we are asking for country reports and articles from interested members. Your contribution in a way shows your commitment to the YFCI goals and makes you eligible for ambassadorship.

Country report might be in the form of a report or article describing particular aspects of your country, for example:-

Education System
Economic Situation
Culture
Youth Empowerment and activities
Millennium development goals
War and Conflict
Governance
Human Rights
Health
Environment Conservation
Religious Fundamentalism and Extremism

The above topics are not exhaustive and the members can write about country specific problems and activities which they want to share with other members.

The most well researched article will be put up on the “Featured Article” section.

In case, you have an imaginative bend of mind then you can all pen down poetry, short stories, haikus or articles for the magazine.
You can also send your paintings. The only requirement is that the topic should be keeping in terms with YFCI magazine frame.

We also encourage budding photographers to submit their photos. We are looking for interesting clips which capture something unique about their respective countries. It could be anything from traditional dance, nature, people celebrating a festival etc. Come up with something exciting!!!

Members can also send in their resume and a brief one page write up about themselves or any other member they wish to nominate for the position of “Featured Member”. A member with an impressive record in community building and development activities or personal achievements will be selected for the position.

So what are you waiting for people???
Open your writing pads or Microsoft word to scribble your way to the YFCI magazine pages!

The last date for submission is 10th February 2007.

All the best!

Anu Maheshwari
Editor-in-Chief

Announcing ABC4ALL: A New Partner

2007-01-04T20:33:00.000-06:00

Dear Members,
I would like to welcome all of you to our new blog. We are happy to announce that the Youth for Change International has partnered with A Better Community for All. ABC4ALL is a non-profit organization that encourages the people of the world to "MAXIMIZE Giving^TM". YFCI partnered with the organization in November of 2006, but just recetly has been publicising it.

View interviews of the respective organizations and see what it's all about here.

Thanks for your input,

Zach Komes

Executive Director

Announcing the "Be The Change Awards - 2007"!

2006-12-30T02:46:00.000-06:00

Dear all,

Youth For Change International, (YFCI), an international youth organisation is pleased to announce their "Be The Change Awards Program" for 2007.Please visit the YFCI website (whose link is given on the right) for more information.

The topic for submissions for the first annual YFCI awards is - what you/we are doing or could do to make a difference. You may also highlight an issue of your choice (e.g: peace).

The Categories for submission of entries include:

- Inspirational Article

- Poetry

- Video / Slide Show

- Photography

- 3D Artwork (Sculpture, Carving, 3D Animation, etc)

- 2D Artwork (Painting, Drawing, Computer Created, etc)

YFCI will publish the winners in their member magazine.The winners will also receive a certificate of recognition in the postmail or by email.

Please check out the YFCI website for rules, regulations, submission guidelines and further information about this program.Visit - http://www.yfci.co.nr

We look forward to your participation.Thanks!

Anupreet Kaur
Chairperson of the Judges Committee

Great!

2006-11-28T07:56:00.000-06:00

This new blog is great!It will serve as a good platform for the members to express themselves freely.Now you don't necesarily have to be a YFCI Contributor in order to voice your opinions and ideas.

Thanks to Zach for creating a new blog!And welcome all the members!

Celebrating the First Anniversary of the Founding of YFCI!

Its going absolutely great!

Thanks,

Anupreet Kaur
Member and Ambassador from India
& YFCI Contributor

The New Blog

2006-11-28T07:45:00.000-06:00

Wow, what a great idea of having a blog! Therefore, I welcome you to the YFCI Blog.

Thanks,

Zach Komes
Founder and Executive Director