International Meetings 12 Tips for the Nigerian Youth on Active Participation in International Meetings ‘Gbenga Sesan Program Manager / Team Leader Lagos Digital Village / Paradigm Initiative Nigeria | International Youth Forum Youngstars Foundation, Jos, Nigeria. June 22-24, 2005

1. Know your area of intervention, don't do everything

2. Don't make international travel an end in itself, its a means

3. Get an international passport, now. Opportunity knocks

4. International is international, don't ignore days of small beginnings

5. Identify organisations that do what you do – and are going where you want to go

6. There's no jumping the gong - personal development  nation building  regional cooperation  global participation

7. Volunteer, its the fastest way to express your passion and carve a niche for you

8. Online tools -- , mailing lists, web referrals, etc -- are your quick link to international events

9. Apply early -- be sure its an event you should participate in, understand your role, register for the event early, make travel arrangements early (visa, travel expenses, country information)

10. Arrive the event ahead of the first session, and don't miss the "opening ceremony" or briefing session

11. Participate actively, and shop only when necessary. Meet your fellowship obligations, take notes and pictures, get contact details of resource persons and potential contacts. If you're making any presentation, prepare well

12. Stay in touch with event organisers and participants -- especially those who do what you do, or wish to be involved in

International Meetings 12 Tips for the Nigerian Youth on Active Participation in International Meetings ‘Gbenga Sesan Program Manager / Team Leader Lagos Digital Village / Paradigm Initiative Nigeria | International Youth Forum Youngstars Foundation, Jos, Nigeria. June 22-24, 2005 THANK YOU