During December special event stations around the world will take part in celebratinig the first worldwide Youngsters on the Air (YOTA) activity. Stations using YOTA-suffix call signs will be active from all three International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) regions. Although most YOTA stations will be in Region 1, one YOTA station will be on the air from St Lucia in the Caribbean (Region 2), and another will be active from the Philippines (Region 3). IARU Region 1 Youth Working Group Chair Lisa Leenders, PA2LS, said YOTA Month is an opportunity to give individuals aged 25 and younger a chance to make contact via Amateur Radio in all available modes.

“With this event we are trying to get more youth activity on the air,” Leenders told ARRL. “In addition to licensed younger radio amateurs, unlicensed young people will be able to get behind the mic together with a [control operator] to experience a possible new hobby. YOTA month is not a contest but a friendly way of making radio contacts.”

She suggested that participants exchange names and signal reports as well as other information, including age, location, and additional interests. A Youngsters On The Air Award will be available. The International YOTA organization is offering three award levels — Bronze, Silver, and Gold — for working YOTA stations.

YOTA stations will be on all bands and modes, and some of the YOTA-suffix stations plan to be active during December contests. A special QSL card will be sent to all who work a YOTA station.

Additional information is available in the most recent YOTA Month bulletin. YOTA also has a Facebook page and will be active on Twitter. E-mail for additional details.