The YLAI Fellowship Program in the USA for the 2024-25 cohort offers a tailored opportunity for emerging entrepreneurial talent seeking to lead developmental initiatives in their nations. Eligible applicants, aged 25 to 35 and residing in participating countries, undergo a rigorous selection process free from discrimination based on age, gender, race, religion, or any other factors. Selected fellows receive comprehensive support, including housing, meal stipends, health benefits, application fee waivers, and round-trip travel between their home country and the USA.
Since its launch in 2015, the YLAI Fellowship has been instrumental in nurturing leadership capabilities and fostering professional growth across the United States. Through a customized leadership curriculum and personalized placements, participants develop actionable strategies for implementation upon their return home. The fully-funded fellowship aims to cultivate professional networks, establish enduring partnerships with investors, and garner significant support for entrepreneurial ventures. Structured around a blend of online and in-person coursework, the YLAI leadership curriculum provides technical training and fosters professional development to realize entrepreneurial ambitions. A four-day welcome workshop sets the stage for fellows, acquainting them with program guidelines, community protocols, and networking opportunities among peers. Upon program completion, participants gain access to ongoing collaboration with US partners, continued professional development initiatives, participation in alumni activities, and mentorship opportunities, furthering the program’s goal of fostering lasting impact and sustainable change. Additionally, through the Outbound Exchange Program, fellows may host US counterparts in their home countries, facilitating knowledge exchange and empowering local communities to harness their economic potential.
YLAI Fellowship Program in the USA 2024-25:
Host Country:
- United States of America
Host Organizations:
- YLAI (Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative).
Benefits of the YLAI Fellowship Program in USA 2024-25:
- No application fees.
- J-1 visa support.
- Round trip travel from home country to US and vice versa.
- 4 weeks of professional placement with the host organization.
- Health benefit support.
- Housing stipend.
- Meal stipend.
Eligibility Criteria of the YLAI Fellowship Program in USA:
- Should be between 25 to 35 years old by Jan 1, 2025.
- Should be a resident or citizen of the eligible participating countries.
- Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Maarten, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Uruguay, Venezuela.
- Should be eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa.
- Successful record of business or social venture for at least two years.
- Should not be a U.S. Government employee.
- Should not be a U.S. resident or citizen.
- Should be proficient in reading, speaking, and writing English.
- Applicants with a disability are highly encouraged to apply.
- No discrimination concerning age, sex, religion, nationality, etc.
How to Apply for the YLAI Fellowship Program in the USA 2023-24:
- Students have to apply through the 2024 Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative Application
- Answer all questions in English.
- Review your application form carefully before submission.
Selection Criteria for the YLAI Leadership Program in USA:
- Professional experience and knowledge.
- Commitment to a positive contribution to your country.
- Commitment to business development.
- Compatibility of your goals with program objectives.
- Leadership capabilities.
YLAI Fellowship Application Deadline:
- The application deadline for the fellowship is June 5, 2024, at 11:59 pm ET.