About Us
Military Youth Ambassadors of Utah is a cultural exchange program that provides an opportunity for children of service members from the Utah National Guard and from the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco to come together and forge friendships, strengthen diplomatic relations, deepen foreign collaboration and trust, develop leadership skills, and represent Utah and the United States as official guests in each other’s nations. This is a two week program for two consecutive years.
Mission: Our mission is to facilitate relationships between military youth from Utah and Morocco. In doing so we will cultivate an appreciation for diversity, promote service and leadership, expand state and international partnerships, and foster personal connections. This exchange will benefit our youth, families, communities, state and country; now and for generations to come.
Vision: To be known and recognized as an exceptional cultural engagement program; developing life-long ambassadors for respect and diversity through an annual exchange with Utah and Moroccan youth.
Military Youth Ambassador program is an affiliate of the Utah National Guard. This is a non-profit organization. Donations can be accepted through their website.
The Program
The MYA Program spans two consecutive years and encompasses two-weeks each summer--these are designated "Hosting Year" and "Traveling Year". Utah participants begin the program by hosting a Moroccan youth, followed by travel to Morocco the following year. Participants will typically stay with the host family of the Moroccan youth that stayed with them the previous year.
Military Youth Ambassadors represent, Utah, the National Guard, and the United States. Participants are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is commensurate with the gravity of this responsibility at all times during the exchange.
In preparation for and during each year of the program, participants and their parent(s)/guardian(s) are expected to participate in various scheduled events, fundraisers and classes.
To apply, download our application PDF.
Adobe is required to complete this application electronically.
For application PDF technical issues, please reach out to us for assistance.
Once completed, email the completed application to: [email protected]
2025-2026 Dates
Phase 1 - Hosting Year
Hosting dates Utah 2025: July 15 - 29, 2025
In Utah, the schedule will be divided into "group" days and "family" day. On group days, participants will have the opportunity to visit sites of cultural and historical significance. For example, we might visit the state capital, Army and Air Guard facilities, and participate in team building activities. Other rotating activities and excursions vary from year to year.
Family days provide an opportunity for each host family to share their individual interests and hobbies; no formal group activities will be scheduled on those days.
Phase 2 - Traveling Year
Traveling dates Morocco 2026: 14 days to-be-determined, between early July to early August
(Dates will be published as soon as they are confirmed with Morocco.)
In Morocco, the youth will spend time at a Moroccan military resort hotel, cultural sites and other group activities, as well as time with their host family. While in Morocco, Utah youth are considered guests of the King. Therefore, security and the welfare of our youth are his main priority.
Chaperones are provided in each country to help supervise participants and address any issues that may arise.