What is the Professional Fellows Program?
The Professional Fellows Program (PFP) for economic empowerment in the Middle East and North Africa is a two-way exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership and professional skills, and build lasting, sustainable partnerships between mid-level emerging leaders committed to strengthening their communities through social entrepreneurship and workforce development. Our program base is Washington D.C. with Fellowship placements in either Austin Texas, Detroit Michigan or Washington DC. The Fall 2022 program concluded in November. The Spring 2023 program will happen from May 1 to June 9, 2023.
Future PFP programs are being scheduled for: September 4–October 13, 2023 and May 6–June 14, 2024. These dates are subject to adjustment.
Covid Contingencies: In response to the ongoing global pandemic, PFP may be offered as a hybrid program with virtual activities leading up to a U.S.-based exchange. Please note: the in-person, U.S.-based exchange is contingent upon favorable travel conditions. In the event there are travel restrictions, or others factors which could adversely impact the health, safety and welfare of program participants, host organizations, and local communities, PFP may postpone or pivot the planned in-person U.S.-based exchange to virtual programming. PFP will follow available national and local public health guidance when making decisions related to program activities.
"I think there is a universal desire for peace, a desire for understanding, for community, for sustainability of our earth, and just the power of discovery, of learning about cultures that are different from ours."
Steve Coleman, Executive Director at Washington Parks & People and Professional Fellows Host during his interview with the Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Podcast 22.33!
Alumni by the Numbers
Have participated in Legacy International's Professional Fellows Program
That our fellows call home: Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Libya, Kuwait, Oman, Morocco and Tunisia
Since Legacy began implementing the Professional Fellows Program in 2010
About the Fellows
PFP Fellows are placed in intensive fellowships in non-profit organizations, private sector businesses, and government offices for an individually tailored professional development experience. They build a broad network with American and other program participant colleagues as they develop a deeper understanding of U.S. society and enhance their professional skills. American participants who have hosted foreign fellows travel overseas for participant-driven reciprocal programs.
