Professional Fellows Program for Young Economic Empowerment Leaders

The program is made possible through a partnership between the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA), Young Pacific Leaders, and East-West Center who are now accepting applications for the Professional Fellows Program for Young Economic Empowerment Leaders. 

Starting in early 2023, this program will bring three cohorts of young professionals from the Pacific Islands to the United States for a five-week U.S.-based exchange which includes an orientation in Honolulu, Hawaii, Fellowship placements at U.S. organizations which align with the Fellows’ interests, and closing activities in Washington DC. 

Who makes a good Professional Fellow?  Professional Fellows (aged 25-40) are those with demonstrated commitment to improving their communities through innovative economic development approaches. Individuals with social entrepreneurial talents geared towards helping their communities emerge from the global COVID-19 pandemic and building resilience to future economic shocks. The eligible countries include: Australia, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, French Polynesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna. 

Applications for cohort 1 are due by June 30, 2022 at 11:59 pm (Hawaii Time GMT+12) and can be completed online. 

They encourage any interested eligible applicant to APPLY HERE and to share this opportunity with your networks throughout the Pacific Region.  

For any questions about the Professional Fellows Program, please contact pfp@EastWestCenter.org