Somalwar Nikalas students represent India at International Festival of Youth 2026

NAGPUR: Narayani Junankar and Shlok Sangitrao, along with their mentor Teacher Chetna Thakre, represented India at the International Festival of Youth 2026 in Yekaterinburg, Russia.

The journey began with the school's participation in the International School Diplomacy Club Project, an initiative of the BRICS Youth Alliance and the Russian Federation. Somalwar School Nikalas was one of 12 schools in India selected to take part in the initiative, which promotes youth collaboration, cross-cultural understanding and children's diplomacy. Through year-round activities, including international pen-pal exchanges, online interactions, seminars, expert lectures and collaborative projects, students gained exposure to global perspectives and opportunities for international engagement. The school established its School Diplomacy Club with 12 students under the mentorship of Teacher Chetna Thakre.

The contingent was selected through a competitive application process involving an essay and video presentation, and was awarded full programme funding. The note states that 18 students from across India were selected for the Indian youth delegation.

The festival had approximately 10,000 young participants from 191 countries and all 89 regions of Russia. Through workshops, educational sessions, cultural programmes and interactions with international peers, participants gained exposure to diverse cultures, educational practices and global perspectives.

The school acknowledged the encouragement and support of Secretary Prakash Somalwar and Principal Damodar Thombre in making this opportunity possible.

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