Calling All Hosts: What does IYELP stand for?

IYLEP refers to Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program, a high school and undergraduate student program sponsored and funded by the US Embassy, Baghdad and US Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Students are selected by the US Embassy through a competitive application process.
During the program, students ages 16-17 develop leadership skills, learn about US history and culture, and build a network of emerging leaders. FIUTS fulfills a 2-week portion of the 3-week program through a contract with World Learning.

The goals of the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program are: 
1. To develop a cohort of young adults who have a strong sense of civic responsibility, a commitment to community development, an awareness of current and global issues, and strong interpersonal leadership skills.
2. To foster relationships among youth from different ethnic, religious, and national groups; and 
3. To promote mutual understanding, respect, and collaboration between the US and counterparts across Iraq.

Community Members: Please Help Us Host these Students!

We invite members of the Puget Sound community to host one or more IYLEP participants: The first opportunity is day hosting only, between July 17-July 30; the second is a 10-day homestay from July 26-August 6. Homestay is an important opportunity for participants to learn about American culture and connect with local people. On the final evening, all hosts are invited to join us for dinner to celebrate the program and enjoy the interesting cultural presentations that students prepare at FIUTS. Please contact Claire@fiuts.org for information about hosting a IYLEP participant.