Henko wrote a blog the other day entitled "Where do I (& you) fit in?" that inspired me to write this blog.  In it, he explained that YEPs are all so different, yet we all share something in common: our passion for adventure and the environment.  People often forget the point of the YEP community.  It is so much more than just a place where we can apply to go on an incredible expedition. The YEP community is a place where we, passionate youths, can meet like-minded people.  Through this community, we are given the opportunity to meet people from all around the world.  We are able to learn from each other by reading the blogs and watching the videos that are posted on the site.

Something that is hard to grasp is the fact that we, the youth, are the leaders of tomorrow.  I would bet money that somebody on this community will one day lead a nation; somebody else will discover a new specie of animal; somebody else will invent an incredible new technology that will greatly help global warming.  And the cool thing is we can now do it together.  We are fortunate enough to meet people from around the world who can help us spread our projects, our ideas, our opinions, and our concerns. We share an amazing bond.  For a real life example, I have never met Young Explorer Lauren Morrell, but the other day we were texting about going to Switzerland together, about me staying in her home, and about me helping her get sponsorship for her project.  I automatically feel like I am friends with everybody on this website because I know that we all think alike and share the same passion, something that I do not experience with that many people in my community.

If you really grasp this concept, you can use this community so much to your advantage; it really can change your life.  Who knows, maybe next year you'll be traveling through South Africa and will end up staying with somebody on this website.  Maybe in the future, you'll have a really good idea for a project, but will need a person from Germany's opinion.  This community that Mike and his team created really is quite the resource; we are all so lucky to have found it.

In other news GOOD LUCK TO THOSE OF YOU WHO APPLIED FOR CANADA! I spoke with Mike and Cathy not to long ago, and they expressed that the selection is always very difficult.  You are all amazing candidates, and if the funding was there, I am sure that Mike would love to invite you into the YEP family!

Each of you YEPs are so special; you each bring something incredible to this community.  Stay active; it's worth it!