Entries Open for the IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

Applications are currently being accepted for the 2025 IREX Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program. The CEE Program is a dynamic global network of innovators who are dedicated to addressing critical 21st Century issues in communities around the world. With over 100 countries involved, CEE provides dedicated visionaries with the necessary expertise, skills, and resources to develop innovative approaches and foster healthy and engaged communities.

Program details: IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

1. The CEE Program is a transformative leadership development experience that spans a year.
2. It is specifically designed for civil society leaders between the ages of 21 and 27, aiming to empower them to utilize the power of networks, relationships, and information for the betterment of society.
3. The program focuses on various issues such as civic dialogue and peacebuilding, open and participatory government, women and gender, environmental sustainability, and youth engagement.

Components: IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

1. The fellowship components of the CEE Program include a three-month practicum in the United States, where fellows are matched with civil society organizations.
2. During this period, fellows receive support from designated supervisors and peers, gaining hands-on professional experience. Additionally, the program includes a Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy, where fellows explore the program themes through interactive curriculum, service learning, face-to-face trainings, mentorship, professional coaching, and the opportunity to join a global network.
3. Furthermore, CEE fellows, with the assistance of their U.S. host organization and mentors, design and plan a community engagement project (CEP) to be implemented upon their return home.
4. Once they depart the U.S., fellows put their projects into action in their respective communities.
5. Additionally, there is a CEP Exchange, where select U.S. hosts and CEE specialists travel to a CEE alumnus’ country to collaborate and support the implementation of their project.
6. The knowledge gained from this exchange is then used to strengthen communities in the United States or the alumnus’ home country.

Eligibility: IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

To be eligible for the CEE Program, applicants must be emerging civil society and community leaders who meet the merit-based criteria.

1. Age range: 21-27 years old;
2. Must be a citizen of one of the eligible countries listed below;
3. Currently residing and working in their home country during the application process;
4. Individuals living in another country with refugee status and actively working for their home community may receive special consideration.
5. Must have a minimum of two years of professional or volunteer experience in community or civil society issues at the time of application;
6. Engaged in a community initiative in their home country, either professionally or as a volunteer, with a clear intention and vision to pursue a career supporting civil society or working within the civil society sector;
7. Able to start the CEE Program in the United States in 2025;
8. Eligible to obtain a U.S. J-1 Visa;
9. Committed to returning to their home country after completing the program and implementing a community-based project;
10. Proficient in spoken and written English at the time of application.
11. Semifinalists will be required to take a Duolingo English language test.
12. Finalists should have the ability to effectively communicate, even on unfamiliar topics. They should be able to comprehend the main ideas of both concrete and abstract writing and interact comfortably with proficient speakers.

Eligible countries by region: IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

Africa: Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Financial Support: IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

1. The program covers the majority of expenses related to:
2. – J-1 visa support
3. – Round-trip travel from the participant’s home city to the U.S.
4. – Monthly allowance to cover housing, meals, and other living expenses while in the U.S.
5. – Accident and sickness health benefits.

Application: IREX Community Engagement Exchange Program

1. Deadline July 2, 2024.
2. Direct all questions to CEE Program Frequently Asked Questions document or email [email protected].
3. To apply Visit the Official Webpage of the IREX Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program