Youth Leadership Foundations
Ambassador Program
For 11th Grade Leaders in the Triangle: Ready to have fun, make new friends, and build the skills to lead, influence, and inspire your community.
More Than a Volunteer Role.
A Professional Incubator.
The Youth Leadership Foundation (YLF) Ambassador Program is an exclusive, one-year leadership track designed for high-achieving 11th and 12th graders in the Triangle area.
This is a professional development incubator where Ambassadors serve as the “face” of the RDU cohort. By bridging the gap between adult staff and middle school participants, you will build the high-level influence, communication, and management skills required for college and career success.
Build Your Legacy
As a Tier 1 or Tier 2 leader, you aren’t just attending a program—you are helping to build a legacy. You will lead, influence, and inspire the next generation while growing your own personal power within the RDU community.
Junior Staff Experience
Real-world organizational leadership
Peer Mentorship
Direct support for Middle School Programs
Influence & Inspire
The elite tier of the Triangle RDU cohort
Modeling Excellence in the Triangle.
Our Ambassadors are more than just participants; they are the standard-bearers for our community. By demonstrating maturity and a genuine desire to uplift others, these student leaders play a vital role in strengthening the RDU leadership landscape. They serve as a living example of what is possible when young people lead with purpose.
“This service-driven tier empowers students to practice high-level responsibility while contributing to the expansion of the YLF mission across the Raleigh-Durham area.”
🏅 Ambassador Leadership Tiers
A two-tier structure designed for RDU students to grow in responsibility at a supportive and appropriate pace.
Tier 1: Leadership Ambassador
Grade 11 — Peer Mentor & Triangle Support
Focuses on confidence, communication, and foundational leadership practice while completing the RDU YLF curriculum.
Key Responsibilities
- Support Middle School Programs
- Mentor younger participants
- Model YLF leadership expectations
- Assist with materials & setup
- Support session flow
- Recruit 2+ new Triangle youth per year
Tier 2: Senior Leadership Ambassador
Grade 12 — Program Support Lead
Strengthens leadership identity, initiative, and responsibility for returning RDU leaders ready for expanded impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Guide Tier 1 Ambassadors
- Assist with logistical operations
- Coordinate quarterly RDU service projects
- Represent YLF during Triangle outreach
- Lead regional recruitment efforts
- Recruit 3+ new Triangle youth per year
⭐ Eligibility & Requirements
🎓 Grade Level & Age
Applicants must be entering 11th grade (16 years old) for Tier 1 or 12th grade (17 years old) for Tier 2 for the 2026–2027 school year
📘 Program Participation
Must be enrolled in the RDU Youth Leadership Foundations program.
📊 Academic Standing
Minimum cumulative GPA at your NC High School: 2.50 for Tier 1 (Grade 11) and 2.75 for Tier 2 (Grade 12).
📜 Verification
Completed School Verification Form (signed by a school official for GPA proof) and 2 Letters of Recommendation.⚖️ Conduct
Must be in good standing at school (no suspensions or major actions).
📣 Recruitment
Actively support growth by recruiting two new Triangle youth each year.
🌱 Ambassador Benefits
Meaningful leadership development for RDU academic and career pathways.
$500 RDU Foundations Leadership Scholarship
Selected Ambassadors receive a $500 scholarship applied directly to their program costs, waiving 100% of tuition for the academic year. This award recognizes your commitment to serving the RDU
Professional Leadership Portfolio
A comprehensive digital and physical folder containing your Certified Service Hours, Skill Certifications, and Letters of Recommendation for college applications.
Digital Leadership Badge (LinkedIn Ready)
A Verified Digital Leadership Badge specifically designed for LinkedIn and social media profiles, identifying you as a vetted Camp S.W.A.G. Ambassador.
Official Gear
- Ambassador Polo Shirt
- Ambassador Hoodie
- Ambassador Photo Badge
Ambassador Advisory Seat
Join quarterly strategy sessions with the leadership team to provide feedback on program growth and influence the future of Camp S.W.A.G. curriculum.
Graduation Honors & Recognition
All Ambassadors will be formally acknowledged and receive a Leadership Service Certificate at the Youth Leadership Foundations Graduation. The top performer will be honored with the Camp S.W.A.G. Excellence Award—an engraved trophy for exceptional leadership and commitment.
📝 Application Process
1. Online Application
Submit digital app with personal statement, a copy of transcript or current report card, and 2 letters of recommendation. A $100 non-refundable application fee is due at the time of submission.
Start Your Triangle Application →2. Application Review
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis by the Camp S.W.A.G. Leadership Staff until all positions are filled.
3. Virtual Interview
Selected Triangle candidates meet with Camp S.W.A.G. Leadership Staff and Advisory Board for a final assessment.
4. Final Selection
Final cohort selections announced by June 30. An additional $100 fee to cover the cost of Ambassador uniform and onboarding fee is required upon acceptance to secure your position.
Training and tools will be provided to all selected RDU ambassadors.