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Youth Talk

Connecting Japan and U.S. Youth in Dialogue and Exchange

Youth Talk is a scholarship opportunity for high school teens in Colorado to participate in a two-week reciprocal exchange program to Japan starting in March 2026. Youth Talk connects and engages teens in meaningful dialogue to:

  • Develop intercultural and interpersonal skills
  • Foster lifelong friendships between Japan and U.S. youth
  • Cultivate active global citizenship

This program offers teens a rewarding experience that allows them to explore a new culture and language, participate in fun hands-on activities and excursions, and connect with Japanese teens.

Funded by the Mineta Ambassadors Program, accepted applicants will join a select group of youth as the first-ever Youth Talk Scholars of 2026. Scholars also serve as Mineta Ambassadors to represent their country and community, as well as Program Hosts to visiting Japanese Scholars in March 2026. The esteemed role as a Scholar, Ambassador, and Host offers participating youth a unique opportunity to learn, engage, and experience.

We encourage teens who are enthusiastic learners, ready for an adventure, and have an interest in Japanese culture and language to apply!

What's included in your experience

  • Airfare

Scholarships and Aid

Youth Talk is a fully-funded scholarship program by the Mineta Ambassadors Program (MAP), administered by the U.S.–Japan Council. MAP is an education endowment program to support exchange opportunities between U.S. and Japanese students. Its name honors the legacy of former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and U.S. Secretary of Commerce, the Honorable Norman Y. Mineta, who, in addition to his celebrated career of public service, was a longtime member and leader within the U.S.–Japan Council.

The Youth Talk program scholarship includes:

  • Cost of airfare to and from Japan from Denver
  • Two-week programming, including all lessons, activities, and excursions (including admissions)
  • Ground transportation throughout the program, including transport to and from program activities/excursions
  • Student Learning Journey (required online course)
  • Three virtual programs (required)
  • Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks)
  • Host family stay for the duration of the program (host families are screened and vetted)

The scholarship does not include:

  • Domestic travel to your international departure in Colorado
  • Spending money for souvenirs and/or personal items
  • Fees imposed by the airline(s) outside of your international ticket, such as luggage fees

Program Learning Commitment and Requirements

Virtual Sessions
As a recipient of the Youth Talk scholarship, you are committed to participating and fully engaging in the wonderful activities. All Youth Talk Scholars are required to attend three (3) virtual sessions (See Itinerary): 1 – January Program Launch, 2 – May Meet and Greet, and 3 – Program Wrap Up. These mandatory virtual sessions gather all Scholars (in Japan and the U.S.) in online programming that will mark the beginning of their learning journey together.

Online Course
In addition, all Scholars are expected to participate in an online Student Learning Journey [SLJ]. This is an online youth course, offered as part of the scholarship, designed as an intercultural learning experience. The course provides the fundamentals of global learning and understanding. Dates are to be determined and announced. Scholars should expect their SLJ to take place prior to their departure for Japan in July.

Program Host
While Youth Talk Japan Scholars visit Colorado, U.S. Scholars are required to join two (2) workshops and one to two (1-2) program excursions. Optimal participation is required in order to provide Scholars with the opportunity to engage in meaningful activities that encourage dialogue exchange.

Program Eligibility

Applicants are willing and able to attend required virtual sessions, actively participate in the online course, and serve as a Program Ambassador and Host in March 2026. (See Program Commitment and Requirements)

Graduates Eligible? No, high school graduates are not eligible to participate.
Minimum GPA 2.0
Age Range (at program start) 15 years and 0 months to 18 years and 0 months at start of program.
Language Skills Applicants must have an interest, desire, and aptitude for learning
the Japanese language.
Intrapersonal/Interpersonal Skills (Soft Skills) Applicants are able to adapt and adjust quickly, show a willingness to engage in conversation with their host family, teachers, volunteers, and peers; have enthusiasm to participate in program activities, and display patience, empathy, and understanding to each other and be team players.
Residence Resident of Colorado
Passport Must have a valid passport at the time of departure.

Based on differences in culture, strict government regulation of medications, and other local customs, it has been our experience that not all of our international AFS partners are able to support students with certain diagnoses, including but not limited to, severe allergies, strict dietary restrictions, ADD/ADHD, and those currently taking or who have taken psychotropic medications and/or received counseling for mental/psychological issues within the past year. If this applies to you, please get in touch with an AFS Study Abroad Specialist early so that we can determine the right experience for you.

Youth Talk – Japan_Application

Application Process

The application is completed online and gathers general information, and requires the completion of several essay questions. Applicants and their parents should review the application together, keeping in mind important due dates and required documentation.

Step 1: Complete the first half of the application by the given due dates (all sections marked with a due date up to and including October 15 must be completed to be eligible and for your application to be considered for an interview). These sections include:

  • Welcome Application
  • Program Commitment Form
  • Complete Your Profile
  • Health Information
  • Introduce Yourself
  • Parent and Guardian Statement
  • Youth Talk Essays
  • Financial Statement

Step 2: If the above sections are complete and comply with application requirements, you and your parents will be contacted via email to schedule an online interview.

Step 3: Acceptance is determined based on meeting the eligibility requirements, completion of the full application (including essays and required documentation), and online interview participation and review. Accepted applicants and their parents will be notified via email.

Youth Talk – Japan_Itinerary

Program Itinerary*

  • Pre-Departure Orientation (prior to travel)
  • Japan Arrival Orientation
  • School Visits
  • Sightseeing in Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree
  • Tea ceremony club activity
  • Ikebukuro Disaster Prevention Center
  • Calligraphy activity
  • Time with your host family

*Program itinerary is subject to change.

Youth Talk – Japan_Accommodations 2

Your Accommodations

When you enter your host family’s house, you can expect to take off your shoes and change into slippers. Japanese homes tend to be well-kept. With cleanliness as a priority, be ready to help your host family with daily chores. Being on time is also an important part of Japanese manners!

In most Japanese families, traditional food is important, and meals are communal. Get ready to enjoy some delicious green tea, rice, and noodles!

Japan_Food

Foods You’ll Encounter in Japan

If you like your meals deep-fried, you’ll love the variety of Japanese tempura. Otherwise, food in Japan usually consists of rice and noodles mixed with fresh vegetables, fruits, and light meats like pork and chicken. Seafood, either raw or grilled, is also very popular. For dessert, you can try traditional wagashi, which includes delicious treats like mochi (a kind of rice cake) flavored with sweet red bean paste. Sushi actually isn’t that common, though you might get to enjoy it on special occasions.