US Embassy

http://nicosia.usembassy.gov/EmbatWork/BoldLeadersSep09.htm

Ambassador Urbancic Congratulates Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot Bold Leader Youth

September 25, 2009

Ambassador Urbancic hosted a reception at his residence for 40 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot teenagers who participated in the Bold Leaders Program in July 2009 in Denver, Colorado

On September 25, Ambassador Urbancic hosted a reception at his residence for 40 Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot teenagers who participated in the Bold Leaders Program in July 2009 in Denver, Colorado. Parents were also invited. The Chris Byars Jazz Quartet and the Bicommunal “Jazz Futures” group serenaded the reception, while the Ambassador and Embassy officers congratulated the students on having participated in this most challenging three-week program, where they were living and working with someone from the other community for the first time in their lives. Fulbright Commission counselors, who were also present, provided invaluable information about scholarship and study opportunities in the U.S.

For the past six years, Critical Mass Leadership Education has run a dynamic and engaged three-week camp for Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot youth. The program focuses on creating an empowered, related and committed community of “ambassadors” skilled in the areas of intercultural awareness and communication, conflict resolution and collaborative leadership. Upon their return to the U.S., participants remain engaged in bicommunal activities that include working with orphans, beach cleanings, tree plantings, and public concerts. The program is sponsored by the U.S. Embassy’s Bicommunal Support Program.