Thank you for your interest in a Leaders Lead On-Demand (LLOD) U.S Exchange Program, funded by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and implemented by World Learning. Please see below for information on the program and application.

 

The Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF), established by the United States and 13 partner countries in May 2022, aims to establish high-standard commitments across four pillars: Connected Economy, Resilient Economy, Clean Economy, and Fair Economy. In alignment with these objectives, the Leaders Lead On-Demand exchange program seeks to foster entrepreneurship, ensure inclusivity in economic benefits, strengthen anti-corruption efforts, and cultivate a cadre of dynamic entrepreneurs.

 

The program's primary focus is the creation, development, and sustainability of the IPEF network, which aims to promote collaboration, innovation, and economic prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region. Scheduled from September 15 to 28, 2024, the U.S. segment of the exchange will bring together participants from India, Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Brunei. This diverse group will provide a range of perspectives on the pillars of the IPEF.

 

During the U.S. segment, participants will embark on a comprehensive journey that includes visits to Washington, D.C., as well as several other communities across the country. Following their time in the nation's capital, participants will divide into subgroups, each subgroup traveling to a different city for discussions with the local business community and site visits to vibrant entrepreneurial hubs. This immersive experience will offer participants firsthand exposure to a variety of policy frameworks, regulatory environments, and key initiatives that drive economic growth and innovation in the United States. Through interactive sessions and meetings with policymakers, experts, and industry leaders, participants will gain valuable insights into the strategic importance of the IPEF initiative and its potential impact on regional economic dynamics. Moreover, participants will have unique opportunities to engage directly with leading tech companies, venture capitalists, and startup accelerators. These interactions will provide insights into cutting-edge innovation, investment trends, and disruptive technologies shaping the economic landscape.

Subsequent segments in the Leaders Lead On-Demand model are adaptable drafts, subject to adjustment based on evolving needs and deliverables. The primary deliverable is the establishment of the entrepreneurship network envisioned by the IPEF initiative.

Beyond the U.S. segment, the program will continue to evolve, with subsequent segments in the Indo Pacific region, focusing on consolidating learnings, identifying common goals, and establishing collaborative frameworks.

Moving forward, the IPEF network aims to become a self-sustaining independent initiative, collaborating with the State Department and other stakeholders to pursue its goals. Additionally, partnerships with initiatives such as the Digital Communication Network regional hub will facilitate the creation of digital platforms and communication tools necessary for the network's sustainability, enabling ongoing collaboration, knowledge sharing, and resource mobilization among its members.

Participants in the U.S. exchange program will: 

• Be from India, Fiji, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Brunei
• Be proficient in conversational English 
• Have interest or expertise in Technology and Innovation, Renewable Energy and Sustainability, Entrepreneurship and Startups, Trade and Commerce, and Healthcare and Biotechnology.

We also seek candidates with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, demonstrated leadership potential, strong analytical and critical thinking skills, and a commitment to the program and follow-on activities. Those selected will come from diverse backgrounds, ethnicities, organizations, and political orientations. We also aim for gender balance.

World Learning will arrange and cover FAA-compliant economy-class flights, all program-related transportation, medical insurance during the program, hotel accommodations, per diem, and social activities during the event. World Learning will also make visa arrangements for all participants in coordination with various U.S. embassies.

The application form for the U.S. segment is now open. The deadline for submitting the application is July 24, 2024. The application must be completed in English. Please note that due to the volume of applications, we will only contact semi- finalists following the closing of the application. No phone calls or emails please.

We appreciate your interest in this program and look forward to working with you.