The Professional Fellows Program (PFP) for the Middle East and North Africa, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, aims to foster mutual understanding and enhance leadership skills among mid-level emerging leaders. The program focuses on community leadership, entrepreneurship, and workforce development.
Participants begin with a week of team building and professional training in Washington, D.C., followed by a four-week fellowship placement in either Washington, D.C., Detroit, or Pittsburgh. This experience provides participants with real-world exposure and helps build a professional network that transcends borders. Non-U.S. fellows engage in a five- to six-week exchange program in the United States, including a tailored fellowship placement within various U.S. organizations such as private sector businesses, academic institutions, non-profit organizations, and government offices.
The program emphasizes creating strong networks among like-minded individuals working towards common goals. Participants gain a deeper understanding of both U.S. and MENA cultures while expanding their global citizenship and professional skills.
Eligibility criteria include being aged 25-40 at the start of the program, holding citizenship and residency in Algeria throughout the application process until final placement, fluency in English with the ability to work full-time at a U.S. worksite, current employment with at least two years of relevant experience, interest in participating in a reciprocal program for Americans visiting their country, demonstrated leadership and community engagement abilities, and preference for those who have not participated in a U.S. government-funded program within the last three years.
Applications can be submitted through www.legacyintl.org/pfp for this fall's five- to six-week program duration.