At-Risk Youth Visit Consulate General and Learn of United States Government Role Overseas

August 26, 2010

Consul-General Passen presenting to the students

Over 40 at-risk students from Brooklyn, New York, visited the U.S. Consulate General in Johannesburg as part of their volunteerism program supported by the Angel Rock Project.  The group, known as “Journey for Change”, has been engaged in a number of community service activities throughout South Africa over the past weeks and is dedicated to “empowering youth through global service.”  The group has visited needy communities in Diepsloot and Soweto and engaged in activities including working with orphaned and vulnerable children as well as families affected by HIV/AIDS.

Consul General Andrew Passen began the presentation with the kids and spoke about the need for service and the United States’ role in humanitarian and developmental realms.  Three other officers from the Consulate General presented on their portfolios and engaged in a lively Q & A session on varying topics, including careers in the Foreign Service at the Department of State.  The group then toured the Consulate General and was briefed on some of the incredible pieces of art that adorn its walls.