Young Pacific Leaders Professional Fellows Program (YPL PFP)

The Young Pacific Leaders Professional Fellows Program (YPL PFP) is an international exchange program for selected individuals in the Pacific, intended to build and reinforce professional connections between the Pacific Islands and the United States. The theme 'Empowering Oceania' focuses on economic empowerment across the Pacific by exploring how systems can support innovation and sustainable economic development. Participants will have the opportunity to build their capacities in growing regional entrepreneurship, business leadership, and workforce development. Selected Fellows from the Pacific will complete virtual and in-person programming with Cultural Vistas before embarking on a tailored four-week professional fellowship placement at a host organization in the United States. Following their placement experience, Fellows will gather in person with Cultural Vistas in Washington, D.C. for reflection and further collaboration with their YPL PFP Cohort. At the conclusion of the exchange, program alumni will be eligible for seed funding to support them in completing a follow-on activity within their home communities to advance their professional goals. Additionally, alumni will also have the opportunity to host an American Fellow for an 11-day reciprocal exchange to support their follow-on activity. All program travel costs and accommodations will be covered by the program and coordinated by Cultural Vistas. The program is sponsored by the United States Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs with funding provided by the U.S. Government and administered by Cultural Vistas.