The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program offers a transformative leadership development experience for civil society leaders aged 21-27. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by IREX, CEE equips participants with the expertise, skills, and resources to address critical 21st-century issues and build healthy, engaged communities.

Program Goals

The CEE Program aims to prepare the next generation of decision-makers and community activists. It empowers participants to assume greater leadership roles in their institutions and communities, creating a pipeline of global leaders.

The program focuses on building capacity for civil society leaders and organizations. Participants gain the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to be informed and active members of their communities.

CEE also strengthens participants' ability to lead collaboratively and ethically. This is achieved while addressing issues of public concern and fostering a global network of civil society leaders.

Program Components

The program includes a three-month practicum in the United States. IREX matches CEE fellows with civil society organizations, providing hands-on experience and support.

Fellows participate in a Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy. This involves interactive curriculum, service learning, mentorship, and professional coaching.

Participants design and plan a Community Engagement Project (CEP) to implement in their home communities after the U.S. portion. Select U.S. hosts and CEE specialists may also travel to support project implementation.

Financial Support

The program covers most expenses, including J-1 visa support and round-trip travel from the participant's home city to the U.S.

A monthly allowance is provided to cover housing, meals, and other living expenses while in the U.S. Participants also receive accident and sickness health benefits.

This comprehensive financial support ensures that participants can focus on their professional development and community engagement projects without financial burden.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must be between 21 and 27 years old and a citizen of an eligible country. They must also be currently living and working in their home country at the time of application.

• Have a minimum of two years of professional or volunteer experience in community or civil society issues.

• Be working on a community engagement initiative in their home country.

• Be able to begin the CEE Program in the United States in 2026 and receive a U.S. J-1 Visa.

Special consideration is given to individuals with refugee status working on behalf of their home community. The competition is merit-based, seeking emerging leaders with a demonstrated commitment to civil society.

Geographic Focus

The program is open to applicants from various regions, including Africa, East Asia and the Pacific, Europe and Eurasia, the Middle East and North Africa, South and Central Asia, and the Western Hemisphere.

Specific eligible countries include Cameroon, Kenya, Vietnam, Czech Republic, Egypt, India, Bolivia, and many others. A full list of eligible countries is available in the official program guidelines.

This broad geographic focus ensures a diverse cohort of participants, fostering cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.

Important Dates

The deadline for applications is May 22, 2025. Interested applicants should prepare their applications well in advance of this date.

The program is scheduled to begin in the United States in 2026. Successful applicants must be available to participate for the duration of the program.

Ensure all eligibility criteria are met and all required documents are submitted by the deadline to be considered for this opportunity.