Cultural Affairs Attaché of the U.S. Embassy, Ryan G. Bradeen, welcomed 22 returning participants of the Kennedy-Lugar Youth Exchange and Study (YES) program scholars on June 14 2012. The high school students successfully completed a year-long exchange program in the United States. 

As participants of the YES program, students completed an academic year in an American high school, lived with American host families, participated in community and volunteer activities, learned about American culture, and served as 'Youth Ambassadors' teaching others of their own country and religion. 

In his opening remarks, Bradeen encouraged students to leverage their exchange experience and contribute to the betterment of society by engaging in community service activities. Additionally, the Alumni Outreach Coordinator of the American Center, Quazi Sabir Amanullah advised new alumni members to actively engage in the State Alumni network, a global community of more than 65,000 current and past participants of U.S. government-sponsored programs.

YES scholars were awarded Certificates of Completion.  YES alumni who participated in Global Youth Service Day were also awarded for their exceptional contribution to communities.

In attendance were representatives from the US Embassy, iEARN-BD Chairperson  Rubina Khan, iEARN-BD staff, and members of the community.