The International Committee of the Mediterranean Games (ICMG) proudly announces the launch of the Mediterranean Young Ambassadors (MYA) Programme, a visionary initiative aimed at empowering youth leaders from across the Mediterranean Basin to champion peace, unity, and the values of Olympism through sport.

The MYA Programme serves as a platform for young individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, passion for sport, and commitment to intercultural dialogue to become active promoters of the Olympic spirit in their communities and during ICMG events.

 Pilot Programme in Africa

As part of its commitment to inclusion and youth development, ICMG is launching the pilot edition of the MYA Programme in five African member countries: Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, and Libya. This strategic step marks the beginning of a long-term plan to establish a unified, youth-driven movement across all ICMG nations.

Each of the five National Olympic Committees is invited to nominate up to three candidates, with a requirement to ensure gender balance by including at least one participant of a different gender. The selected ambassadors will begin their journey with online training and mentorship and will lead in the build-up to the Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026.

Who can apply?

The MYA Programme is open to candidates who meet the following criteria:

• Aged 18 to 26 at the time of application
• Fluent in English (French is an advantage)
• Actively involved in sport (as athletes, coaches, volunteers, or advocates)
• Demonstrating leadership, initiative, and a commitment to ICMG values
• Connected with their National Olympic Committee or sporting community in their country

Applicants must apply via the APPLICATION FORM and submit a CV and a Motivation Letter expressing their vision, experience, and reasons for wanting to serve as Mediterranean Young Ambassadors to [email protected].

Roles and responsibilities of a Mediterranean Young Ambassador

Mediterranean Young Ambassadors will:

• Represent ICMG at national and international events
• Inspire and engage young athletes through educational and promotional activities
• Support Olympic values and the Mediterranean spirit of solidarity, dialogue, and peace
• Build and maintain communication through social media and youth outreach
• Participate in capacity-building through mentorship and training sessions

This is not a logistical or administrative role within the NOC delegation. MYAs are not interpreters, photographers, or assistants. They are recognised as official ICMG ambassadors with an advocacy and leadership mission.

Timeline and next steps

All the candidates should submit the application form and required documents by June 20, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interviews led by representatives of their NOC and the ICMG Solidarity, Culture, and Education Commission. In the months leading to Taranto 2026, successful applicants will join a training and mentorship programme.

Each NOC will coordinate travel to the Games, while ICMG will cover accommodation for MYAs during the Games. MYAs will be officially accredited and integrated into the Mediterranean Village, where they will lead activities and support youth engagement initiatives.

Vision for the future

This pilot edition marks only the beginning. ICMG envisions a permanent programme expanding to all member nations, reinforcing the spirit of unity among Europe, Africa, and Asia youth. Through the MYA initiative, ICMG continues to invest in the next generation of leaders who will carry forward the legacy of the Mediterranean Games with courage, empathy, and purpose.

For more information on how to apply, please contact your National Olympic Committee or the ICMG Solidarity, Culture, and Education Commission at [email protected].