The Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program 2026 is a prestigious initiative designed to enhance cooperation and promote peace among nations by supporting civil society leaders in building healthy and participatory communities. The program, organized by the International Research and Exchanges Board (IREX), provides young leaders with transformational experiences and opportunities to network, engage in leadership training, and execute community engagement projects across various sectors.
- 🌍 Community Engagement Exchange Program 2026 Overview Keywords: cooperation, peace, civil society, participatory communities, global leaders, cultural exchange
- 🤝 Program Support and Implementation Keywords: IREX, non-profit organization, educational exchanges, democratic reforms, leadership development
- 🇺🇸 U.S.-Based Opportunities Keywords: leadership development, decision-makers, global networking, democratic norms, transformational experience
- 💼 Program Activities Keywords: practicum, Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy, community projects, networking, thematic focus areas
- 💸 Program Benefits Keywords: J-1 support, stipend, travel grant, medical insurance, living expenses
- 🌐 Eligibility Criteria Keywords: citizenship, age requirement, professional experience, English proficiency, commitment to community service
- 📅 Application Process Keywords: online application, required documents, application deadline, eligibility verification
Designation
Fellow
Research Area
- Community Development
- Civil Society Leadership
- Civic Engagement
Location
United States of America
Eligibility/Qualification
- Candidates must be citizens of eligible countries (listed below).
- Aged between 21-27 years at the time of application.
- Minimum of two years of professional or volunteer experience.
- Proficient in English.
- Must stay in the U.S. for three months.
- Committed to returning to their communities for at least two years after the program.
- Applicants with refugee status are welcomed to apply.
- Must not have participated in a U.S.-funded exchange program without fulfilling a two-year home residency requirement.
- Must not be a permanent U.S. resident in the past three years.
- Cannot be employed by IREX or have immediate family members who work there.
Eligible Countries by Region:
- Africa: Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Sierra Leone, Uganda, Zimbabwe.
- East Asia and the Pacific: Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam.
- Europe and Eurasia: Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia.
- Middle East and North Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestinian Territories, Tunisia.
- South and Central Asia: Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan.
- Western Hemisphere: Bolivia, Cuba, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Peru, Venezuela.
Job Description
The CEE Program provides participants with a year-long cultural exchange experience, including:
- A three-month U.S.-based practicum.
- Participation in Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy.
- Execution of community engagement projects.
- Access to continuous global and local networking focused on key themes like climate change, community-based agriculture, and inclusive development models.
How to Apply
- Applications must be submitted through the Community Engagement Exchange Online Application portal.
- All required documents and details should be provided accurately.
- Ensure that you submit the application before the closing date.
Last Date to Apply
May 22, 2025
This is a unique opportunity designed for those committed to leadership and community engagement, encouraging participants to create impactful work in their home communities.
