Youth Empowerment Seminar

The biggest event in YFU returns on 22–26 June 2026

What is the YES?

The Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES) is a yearly event hosted by Youth For Understanding, gathering more than 100 volunteers and 400 students who get the chance to learn about active citizenship and topics of global interest, but also to talk about their exchange experience with the volunteers and the other students.

The YES aims to empower participants to expand upon the learnings gained through exchange programmes or other intercultural experiences, while connecting with the global YFU community, and thus become proactive and globally-oriented agents of change.

Watch the official After Movie of YES 2024!

YES 2026

An event you won’t forget!

Get ready for a very special edition of the Youth Empowerment Seminar (YES)! In 2026, Youth For Understanding (YFU) celebrates its 75th anniversary — marking 75 years of intercultural exchange, friendship, and global understanding.

Born from the hope of a world recovering from war, YFU has always believed that peace starts with people — with curiosity, kindness, and the courage to connect across cultures. As we celebrate this incredible milestone, YES 2026 will explore how young people like you can continue shaping a more peaceful and connected world.

The core team is currently working on the full concept, but you can expect thought-provoking debates, inspiring workshops, and unforgettable moments with friends from all over the world.

This year’s YES will also be part of the “Empower to Participate” initiative, supported by the European Youth Foundation of the Council of Europe — bringing a special focus on tackling discrimination, civic engagement, and youth participation.

Since 2005, the YES has been held each year (bar 2020 and 2021) at EjB Werbellinsee, in Germany. The camp is spread over 105 hectares and offers access to sleep and eat to hundreds of people, as well as an opening to the beach and Werbellinsee lake.

The venue

Whether you’re looking for a place to socialise with other exchange students and volunteers or you’re more interested in the topic we prepare each year, the YES has a bit of everything for everyone.

Your days will be spent between learning sessions, socialising during our Spirit Activities or at the lounge, or reflect with well-prepared volunteers about your exchange experience.

The YES is the most special event in the YFU world, and an opportunity for hundreds of students to mingle with each other, to learn, and to get an insight into the fantastic world of YFU volunteers.