Applications Open Now!
YEP, a program led by experienced Swamins and Brahmacharins of Chinmaya Mission, is intentionally designed for CHYKs. Its objectives encompass gaining a profound understanding of Vedanta and basic Sanskrit, fostering devotion and spirituality, participating in dynamic workshops and team-building activities, and dedicating time to deep reflection, facilitating a transformative journey towards spiritual growth. Today’s youth worldwide wield the power to enact change with vision, skills, and compassion, serving as a vital workforce, especially in nations with significant youth populations. The YEP program’s 15-year success highlights its enduring value and global significance, transforming young individuals.
DATES: June 14th – July 19th, 2026
ELIGIBILITY: Ages 18 – 28
LOCATION: Chinmaya Mangalam (Barry, TX)
CONDUCTED BY: Swamins & Brahmacharins of Chinmaya Mission
COST: $2000
SECOND ROUND DEADLINE: March 15, 2026
CONTACT: yepamerica7@gmail.com
Vision of YEP
The Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) germinated from the glorious vision of Pujya Gurudev, Swami Chinmayananda. Gurudev believed that youth had innate dynamism, energy, enthusiasm and a sense of adventure. However, these qualities were often misunderstood, not channeled properly, or underutilized. An oft-quoted saying of Gurudev’s is “Youth are not useless, they are used less.”
In accordance with this vision, YEP is a youth leadership program based on values and service. The youth are our nation’s greatest source of “renewable energy.” They have the power to bring about much needed change especially when equipped with the right vision, essential life skills, and a sense of compassion.
YEP Schedule
The YEP program builds self-discipline through an intensive and well-balanced routine. There will be a combination of rigorous study, interactive & experiential learning activities, project work, and self-reflection.
YEP 2024 Schedule (for reference)
YEP Curriculum
The YEP syllabus is carefully designed to provide a foundation in core concepts of Vedantic philosophy as as well as to teach practices that CHYKs can use to cultivate a strong, devotional, and beautiful mind. Texts and chanting that are taught include:
Life After YEP
Following the YEP program, each Yuvaveer (YEP graduate) will take up a seva project that may be carried out virtually or in person, depending on their location and availability. We work to match each individual with a project that aligns with their unique strengths—such as design, leadership, teaching, or organizational skills—as well as their stage of life, whether working, studying, or transitioning between roles. Guided by a Swami or teacher of Chinmaya Mission, and supported by fellow Yuvaveers, they will contribute through initiatives such as youth classes, personal development workshops, retreats, or other creative offerings. This allows Yuvaveers to continue serving meaningfully while applying the skills they’ve gained, alongside their careers or studies.
Some examples of how Yuvaveers can serve:
CHYK West | Youth wing of Chinmaya Mission centers of North America 