To increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries by means of educational and cultural exchange that assist in the development of peaceful relations.
The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Professional Fellows Program aims to bring at least 320 emerging leaders, aged 25-35, from Southeast Asia to the U.S. for leadership and professional development activities. The program focuses on Civic Engagement; Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Economic Empowerment; Society and Governance; and Sustainability and the Environment. Participants will undergo a five to six-week U.S.-based exchange including Professional Fellowship Institutes for practical experience in U.S. organizations and a concluding YSEALI Fellows Forum in Washington, DC. Additionally, at least 80 American participants will travel to Southeast Asia for reciprocal exchanges to support the implementation of action plans by the Southeast Asian Fellows in their local communities. The program includes follow-on alumni engagement activities. The award recipient is responsible for program planning, implementation, oversight of eight Institutes under the YSEALI themes, and collaboration with ECA on broader YSEALI activities/events.