Philadelphia teens train as 'youth diplomats' ahead of World Cup and America 250 events

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A group of Philadelphia-area students is preparing to help welcome visitors from around the world as the city gears up for a major summer of international events, including six World Cup matches at Lincoln Financial Field.

The students, part of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia's 2026 Youth Diplomats program, toured the stadium this week as they began training to serve as certified volunteers during the World Cup and America's 250th birthday celebrations.

The program is designed to give young people hands-on experience in cultural diplomacy, local history and even international greetings.

"Any time the World Affairs Council gives you an opportunity like this, you have to take it, right?" said 10th grader Michelle Wallace.

Lauren Swartz, president and CEO of the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia, said the goal is to ensure young people are active participants in the city's historic year.

"When we're hosting diplomats and delegations and heads of state, we want Philadelphia's young people to be at the table," she said.

More than 3,000 middle and high school students in Southeastern Pennsylvania participate in World Affairs Council programs year-round.

Students said they see the 2026 program as a chance to help shape the city's future.

"I think it's really important for the youth to be a part of this because we're the next generation. If we're not a part of it, we're not going to know what to do when it's our turn to lead stuff," said 11th grader Elizabeth Bailey.

Twelfth grader Valarie Tolbert added, "It's really important for youth to be engaged."

During their visit to Lincoln Financial Field, the students got to see the field where the World Cup games will be played. They also practiced international greetings - with help from Eagles mascot Swoop - including the proper way to exchange a cheek kiss in France.

The kids learned it doesn't actually involve a kiss. Instead, Swartz informed the kids that the proper greeting is to make a kissing sound while one greeter puts their cheek close to the other greeter's cheek. Left cheek first.

"I thought I was actually supposed to kiss them, so I was going to get nervous about that," said 9th grader Caleb Seong with a smile.

As they explored the stadium, including a look at Eagles' Offensive Tackle Jordan Mailata's size 18 shoe, organizers emphasized that the program aims to keep young people involved rather than on the sidelines of the 2026 celebrations.

"They got to be a part of making this historic year really special," Swartz said.

Spots remain open for students interested in joining the Youth Diplomats program, as well as for organizations seeking volunteers for upcoming events.

More information can be found here at wacphila.org.