Empowering Young Leaders for a Just and Sustainable World
The International Youth Training Centre (IYTC) offers a diverse range of academies, trainings, internships, and youth initiatives designed to empower young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become responsible leaders in their communities and beyond.
Each year, IYTC brings together students, young professionals, and youth leaders from across Asia and other regions. Through leadership academies, human rights education, pastoral formation, and youth dialogue programs, participants gain opportunities to learn, collaborate, and develop a deeper understanding of social, environmental, and global challenges.
Learning Through Experience and Dialogue
IYTC programs are designed to combine knowledge, practical learning, and intercultural exchange, creating a meaningful learning experience for participants from diverse backgrounds.
Interactive Learning Environment
Participants engage in workshops, dialogue sessions, and collaborative learning activities facilitated by experienced practitioners, educators, and community leaders. These sessions explore important themes such as leadership development, human rights, ecological responsibility, advocacy, and community engagement.
Community and Cultural Exposure
Many programs include exposure visits and interaction with local communities in Northern Thailand. These experiences allow participants to learn from grassroots initiatives and understand the realities faced by communities working toward sustainable and inclusive development.
Intercultural Exchange
IYTC provides a unique space where young people from different cultures, faith traditions, and social contexts can share perspectives, build friendships, and strengthen mutual understanding.
AYLA – Asian Youth Leadership Academy
The Asian Youth Leadership Academy (AYLA) is a regional leadership program developed by IYTC in collaboration with the North South Initiative (NSI).
The academy addresses key social challenges in Asia, including inequality, migration, labour rights, and environmental sustainability. It creates a learning space where young leaders can explore how youth leadership can contribute to more just and inclusive societies.
Tagline: Leading Change for Justice and Solidarity in Asia
Laudato Si’ Retreat (LSR 2026)
The Laudato Si’ Retreat (LSR 2026) is a contemplative spiritual retreat inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis, particularly through Laudato Si’ and Laudate Deum.
In response to today’s climate crisis, ecological degradation, and social inequalities, this retreat recognizes that the environmental crisis is also a spiritual and moral challenge. It invites participants to undergo an inner transformation that nurtures hope, responsibility, and meaningful ecological action.
Tagline: Hope • Water • Spirit (HWS)
IYALA – International Youth Advocacy & Leadership Academy
The International Youth Advocacy & Leadership Academy (IYALA) brings together young people from around the world to develop leadership and advocacy skills related to climate action, sustainable development, and global governance.
Participants learn how youth can engage in decision-making processes at local, national, and international levels.
Tagline: Youth Global Engagement for Climate Action and the SDGs
CAYLA – Catholic Youth Leadership Academy
The Catholic Youth Leadership Academy (CAYLA) is an international leadership formation program for Catholic youth leaders. It brings together students and young professionals to explore how faith, leadership, and social responsibility can shape positive change in society.
Inspired by the call of Pope Francis for young people to become agents of social transformation, the program encourages participants to connect their faith with action for justice, peace, and care for creation.
Tagline: Faith in Action for Youth Leadership and Social Transformation
AHRA – Asian Human Rights Academy
The Asian Human Rights Academy (AHRA) is an online program designed to strengthen youth engagement in human rights education, advocacy, and protection.
Through expert lectures, workshops, and discussions, participants explore human rights challenges affecting marginalized communities across Asia.
Tagline: Defending Dignity, Promoting Rights
YIPP – Youth Internship & Professional Placement Program
The Youth Internship & Professional Placement Program (YIPP) provides hands-on experience in youth development, advocacy, and social innovation.
Interns work on real projects at IYTC while learning how global frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can be applied in local communities.
Tagline: Learning by Doing for Global and Local Impact
PAYA – Pastoral Academy for Youth Accompaniment
The Pastoral Academy for Youth Accompaniment (PAYA) equips priests, religious leaders, chaplains, and youth ministers with the knowledge and skills needed to guide young people in faith, leadership, and social responsibility.
Tagline: Equipping Mentors for Effective Youth Formation
Children’s Nature & Creativity Camp
A joyful outdoor learning camp where children explore nature, creativity, and friendship through games, arts, storytelling, and cultural activities.
Tagline: Learn, Play, Create, and Explore
Teen Leadership & Adventure Camp
This camp combines leadership training, outdoor adventure, and environmental learning for teenagers.
Tagline: Discover Leadership, Nature, and Community
Apply Now
Ready to join one of our programs?
The International Youth Training Centre welcomes young leaders, students, educators, and community activists from around the world to participate in our leadership and learning programs.
Participants will gain:
- International learning experiences
- Leadership and advocacy skills
- Global networks and friendships
- Opportunities to contribute to social change