Global Ties Detroit is proud to welcome a delegation from the Kyrgyz Republic participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) project, Combating Transnational Crime, sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by Meridian International Center. From June 16–20, 2026, legal and law enforcement professionals will engage with U.S. counterparts to discuss strategies for addressing transnational crime, strengthening international cooperation, and examining the American criminal justice system.

Launched in 2015, the U.S. Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) empowers emerging business and social entrepreneurs from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States, to realize the full economic potential of the region’s citizens. Global Ties Detroit is excited to welcome fourteen fellows from Argentina, Bahamas, Brazil, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Paraguay, and Trinidad and Tobago in the 2026 cohort. While here, they will participate in a four-week fellowship program with local business and organizations, home hospitality dinners, site visits to local businesses and organizations, and cultural outings. The unique opportunities the YLAI program provides for the creation of cross-cultural partnerships, networking, and cultural exchange will enrich not only the lives and businesses of the fellows and their home communities, but metro Detroit as well. 

The Professional Fellows Program for the Middle East and North Africa is a two way exchange program that is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. This program is 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. This year Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming eleven (11) fellows from Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia. These 11 fellows will be participating in a four-week fellowship program where they will be placed at different organizations and businesses across metro Detroit.

GTD will host eight professionals participating in the IVLP program, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development. While in Detroit, delegates will explore topics such as financing opportunities, e-commerce, and strategies to encourage small business growth, while examining the economic, political, and social factors that shape entrepreneurship in the United States. The program will also highlight the impact of small businesses on various economies and the role of partnerships, institutions, and emerging trends in supporting innovation, management, and sustainable growth.

GTD will host eight professionals participating in the IVLP program, U.S. Energy Policy – Security, Independence, and Innovation. During their visit, participants will explore how the United States leverages diverse energy sources to promote global stability, economic growth, and resilience. They will also engage with experts to examine key policies, emerging technologies, and innovative strategies shaping the future of energy.

GTD will host 21 educators and administrators participating in the IVLP program, The American Language: English Language Education – A Multi-Regional Project, from April 20th to April 24th. Representing countries including Algeria, Bangladesh, Benin, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Ecuador, France, Georgia, Hungary, Iraq, Mexico, Nicaragua, Peru, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Türkiye, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam, participants will engage with American counterparts to explore instructional curricula, emerging trends, and the cultural richness of the United States. Throughout the program, they will discuss shared challenges, observe K–12 classrooms, exchange ideas on pedagogy and policy, and deepen their understanding of the U.S. as a context for English-language education.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be welcoming a cohort of fellows this September on the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP), a Department of State program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance Fellows’ leadership and professional skills, and build lasting and sustainable partnerships between emerging leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. In Metro Detroit, fivce YSEALI fellows from Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam will have month-long fellowships at local businesses and organizations, learn about US professional culture, network with their local counterparts, and have the opportunity to explore SE Michigan.

From April 1st - 7th, Global Ties Detroit will welcome an IVLP of twelve (12) academic professionals and digital technology experts from the Dominican Republic, Micronesia, Spain, Thailand, and various other countries, plus two liaisons. Following a project theme of "Education in the Digital Age," the educators will visit local higher learning institutions, grade schools, and technology-based learning centers to explore new K-12 learning initiatives, strategies for retooling community colleges, and expanding access to new technologies.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting five (5) professionals participating in thr International Visitor Leadership Program Combating Drug Trafficking. These delegates will be exploring strategies to combat drug trafficking by addressing drug demand reduction, pharmaceutical supply chain security, and drug related crimes during their stay. They also will be examining U.S. methodologies, techniques, and research in combating drug trafficking and addressing the opioid epidemic. 

Thirty-five (35) English-speaking professionals from government, business, and nonprofit organizations have been selected as Young Southeast Asian Leadership Initiative (YSEALI) Fellows, a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by American Councils for International Education. The Fellows, representing Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Laos, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam, are focused on advancing innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment in their home countries. During their three day Program Orientation in metro Detroit, the Fellows will visit key institutions and community sites that showcase the region’s economic development, entrepreneurial ecosystem, and its role in shaping American industry and innovation. 

The Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program is a Fulbright exchange that brings accomplished mid-career professionals from developing countries to the United States for a year of academic study, professional development, and networking. Established in 1978 by President Jimmy Carter, the program honors the legacy of Senator and Vice President Hubert H. Humphrey and his lifelong commitment to human rights and international cooperation. Since its inception, more than 6,600 professionals from over 163 countries have participated, with approximately 150 fellowships awarded annually. This coming March, Global Ties Detroit is excited to host approximately 30 Humphrey Fellows from across the country to Detroit and Ann Arbor for a four-day Program Enhancement Workshop on Emerging Technologies and Digital Policy. Fellows will engage with experts through interactive discussions and hands-on learning across sectors such as artificial intelligence, energy, entrepreneurship, mobility, and digital innovation, and will collaborate with local experts to develop actionable strategies and concrete solutions for challenges in their home communities.

From February 26th - March 4th, Global Ties Detroit will welcome 12 anti-trafficking experts from various countries including Bangladesh, Cambodia, Canada, Iraq, Lebanon, Malta, Pakistan, Republic of North Macedonia, South Africa, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom participating in a International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The 12 visitors work in law enforcement, immigration, and community-based organizations to combat human and labor trafficking and aid survivors of it. Observing a project theme of "Trafficking in Persons: Prevention and Mitigation I," the delegates will meet with governmental entities, federal law enforcement agencies, and nonprofit resources to understand best practices in local enforcement mechanisms at international borders and managing the health and well-being of survivors.

The Open World Program is a nonpartisan, U.S. Congress–funded initiative sponsored by COIL that connects emerging international leaders with U.S. counterparts through professional and cultural exchange. Delegates participate in meetings and stay with volunteer host families in Metro Detroit to experience American life firsthand. From February 20–28, Global Ties Detroit will host six English-speaking emerging leaders from Hungary for an exchange focused on economic development, including public-private partnerships, entrepreneurship, foreign investment, and innovation, while engaging with leaders across Metro Detroit.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming a delegation of eight (8) experts in economic trade and investment and private sector stakeholders from Bangladesh. These experts will engage with U.S. businesses, and meet with various trade and export-focused organizations and businesses at the governmental and private levels. This project aims to help deepen U.S.–Bangladesh trade and investment ties, highlight how U.S. institutions promote investment, and foster global economic reforms to expand opportunities for American companies.  

From December 9th - 14th, GTD will welcome a delegation of eight (8) leaders in economic trade and security management from South Korea and Japan. While in Detroit, the visitors will meet with business and government leaders in international trade and economic development from across Southeast Michigan to observe best practices in attracting and managing foreign investment, public-private collaboration to support economic growth and innovation, and advanced manufacturing and technology as drivers of competitiveness.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to host our 2025 Holiday Party and Networking Event presented by TechTown and Wayne State University on December 4th, 2025 at TechTown Detroit from 5:30-7:30pm. We will be celebrating the season, connecting with local and global professionals, and supporting the work of Global Ties in fostering a more connected, peaceful, and prosperous world. This event is free to attend, but if you would like to support us through a donation or sponsorship, any contributions are greatly appreciated. The event will feature networking opportunities, drinks and hors d'oeuvres, trivia, prizes, and, of course, great company. We hope you will join us for this special celebration. 

If you are interested in attending please RSVP by December 2nd at brianna@globaltiesdetroit.org

This fall Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming twelve (12) delegates from Benin, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, and Zimbabwe participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Building Pathways to Leadership. The objective of this program is to empower participants to develop or strengthen women’s mentoring and leadership initiatives in their professional fields. These fellows will be examining trends in leadership training, academic programs, public-private partnerships, corporate initiatives, and other mechanisms through which women are encouraged to pursue leadership roles. 

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming 10 delegates from Austria, Belgium, Finland, Germany, Greece, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Strategies to Counter Terrorism. The objective of this program is for delegates to be introduced to U.S. programs that counter terrorism and violent extremism, including those that exemplify the relationship between federal, state, and local entities. During their stay these fellows will be exploring the underlying conditions that fuel terrorism, extremism, and the emerging trends that creatively address them. They also will be examining community-based efforts designed to build strong community resistance to terrorism, including community policing and prison rehabilitation programs, while also discussing how different sectors of American society work together to resist extremism that leads to violence.

Global Ties Detroit will host 12 innovative leaders from Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia for four-week fellowships across Detroit’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. Fellows will be placed in incubators, accelerators, and other organizations supporting economic empowerment. The program will focus on sharing best practices, building cross-cultural networks, and strengthening innovation capacity in their home countries. In addition to their placements, fellows will enjoy a home hospitality meal, volunteer with a local nonprofit, and participate in professional and cultural programming.

This prestigious initiative connects emerging leaders from Southeast Asia and the United States to foster mutual understanding, professional growth, and long-term partnerships. This fall, six fellows from Brunei, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Timor-Leste will engage in month-long fellowships at businesses and organizations throughout Metro Detroit. Their experience will include learning about U.S. professional culture, building networks with local counterparts, and exploring Southeast Michigan.

Join us for Global Ties Detroit’s Annual Dinner, our biggest celebration of the year, on Thursday, October 23rd from 6–9 PM at the stunning and historical Guardian Building.  ️

Enjoy an elegant evening of drinks, dinner, a silent auction, and meaningful connections with local and international changemakers. 

 ️Tickets are $175 | Sponsorships start at $500 | Purchase now linked here!
This unforgettable night will sell out — secure your spot today!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you.  

This Professional Fellows Program for Eurasia empowers business and social entrepreneurs from Eurasia to improve governance and civic life in their home communities. Global Ties Detroit will welcome four fellows from countries including Azerbaijan, Serbia, and Ukraine for month-long fellowships with local organizations. These emerging leaders will explore strategies for increasing accountability, transparency, and efficiency, drawing on lessons learned from Detroit’s innovative approaches to community and government services. They will also explore and connect with the culture and communities of Metro Detroit.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming ten (10) professionals from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Ecuador, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Paraguay participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) U.S. Society and Economic Prosperity. The objective of this program is to equip participants with a thorough understanding of the U.S. political system, including federalism, the separation of powers, and decision-making processes at national, state, and local levels. They also will be examining emerging trends in leadership development, public-private partnerships, and innovative mechanisms for addressing community priorities through collaborative governance.

The Art Musuem and Gallery Curation in the United States program administered by the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) will include five (5) art professionals visiting Detroit this fall. These program participants will be examining the U.S. best practices and latest trends in art curation, collection promotion, and art museum direction. They also will be exploring the different departments and functions within U.S. museums while also networking with leaders and experts in American art communities and exploring possibilities to collaborate on future projects.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to host six (6) musicians from Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Nepal, South Africa and Uganda participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program American Music and the Economy. This program was created for participants to examine how the American music industry drives economic growth, tourism, and job creation. They also will be exploring trends in music financing, distribution, management, operations, promotion, and marketing while also understanding the role that intellectual property rights (IPR) and licensing agreements play in creating a healthy business environment for musicians and investors.

As the U.S. Department of State’s flagship program for emerging European entrepreneurs, YTILI promotes innovation, transatlantic cooperation, and sustainable business growth. This September, Global Ties Detroit will host six fellows from Azerbaijan, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, and Montenegro. Over four weeks, fellows will work with local businesses and organizations, participate in a home hospitality dinner, go on site visits and networking events, and meet with leaders from Detroit’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

This September six (6) delegates from Kosovo will be visiting Detroit in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Strategic Communications for Law Enforcement. The objective of this program is for participants to learn the effects of fostering positive interactions and relationships between police, civil society, and the community, to help build trust and confidence in public institutions. During their stay these professionals will be visiting selected police departments, civil society organizations, educational institutions, and community groups. During these visits they will be examining U.S. best practices in enhancing accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies and government institutions. They also willbe exploring the city of Detroit through cultural tours and home hospitality dinners.

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with IIE to welcome five (5) delegates from Israel participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Bridging Communities Through the Arts. The objective of this program is to examine how innovative arts programming can be instrumental in managing divisions, developing conflict resolution skills, and promoting cross-cultural understanding. During their stay these delegates will be exploring American arts, economic growth, and cultural preservation highlighting how musical, visual, and performing arts creates space for dialogue and self expression. This group will also be participating in site visits, meetings with local artists, and community service activities.  

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming a delegation of 9 visitors from across Africa (including the Central African Republic Morocco, Nigeria, and more countries) who work as lead faculty and lecturers at a variety of universities and higher learning institutions. Following a program theme of "Strengthening University Partnerships," the delegates will visit numerous higher education institutions and think tanks in Metro Detroit to observe best practices for developing public-private partnerships, academic & research collaborations, and STEM education for universities. 

From July 31st - August 6th, Global Ties Detroit will welcome a Multi Regional Project (MRP) International Visitor Leadership Program of ten (10) faith leaders, government officials, and educators from various countries including Albania, Austria, Bahrain, Bolivia, Estonia, Finland, Saudi Arabia, Solomon Islands, Thailand, and Uzbekistan. With a project theme of Promoting Religious Freedom, the delegates will meet with local faith-based, community, and governmental resources to understand best strategies for combatting religious discrimination at the state and local level, and practices for building and organizing interfaith coalitions.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming nine (9) delegates from Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, the Palestinian Territories, and Somalia participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) CRDF Global program Community Strategies to Counter Terrorism. This delegation will be exploring the underlying conditions that fuel extremism such as political grievances, communal conflicts, social structures, and economic disparity. They also will be examining outreach efforts used in the U.S. designed to build strong community resistance to violent extremism and to promote tolerance. 

This summer Global Ties Detroit will be partnering once again with Legacy International to host US Department of State-sponsored TechGirls! Global Ties Detroit is welcoming young women (ages 15-17) from  Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Suriname, and the U.S.! TechGirls is a program that empowers young women from all around the world (including the U.S.!) to pursue careers in science and technology. The program provides opportunities and support that allows these students to advance their skills as well as pursue their dreams. 

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is a program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). The Fellows, between the ages of 25 and 35, have established records of promoting innovation and positive impact in their communities and countries. Since its establishment in 2014, the YALI Fellowship has brought over 7,000 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for academic and leadership training.  The Mandela Washington Fellowship will help strengthen connections between the United States and Africa. In turn, this will establish long term relationships between Fellows, those who house them, local communities, and private businesses. We look forward to having more involvement and fellowship in our communities.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be welcoming fifteen (15) youth and workforce development experts in nonprofit, governmental, entrepreneurship, and education sectors from Angola, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Cote d'lvoire, Djibouti, Eswatini, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Senegal, South Africa, Uganda, and Zimbabwe . These delegates will be participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) American Councils for International Education program Empowering Youth through Workforce Development. During their stay they will be examining the role vocational education plays in providing Americans with training and skills tailored to fit targeted employment needs.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting 3 fellows participating in the Ukrainian Business Leaders Promoting Innovation and Entrepreneurship (UBL PIE) program. This is a fellowship program designed to empower entrepreneurs, innovators, and businesspersons from across Ukraine with the skills to develop innovative economic, policy, and business solutions. These fellows will be placed with local business and organizations to be exposed to sound business practices, leadership skills, and networking opportunities that will position them as leaders to effect change in their businesses and communities.

Global Ties Detroit is pleased to welcome a 6- member delegation of professionals originally from Belarus—representing urban planning, education, and community organizations—to Southeast Michigan, sponsored by the Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL). During their visit, the young and mid-career professionals  will meet with local experts and counterparts in metro Detroit to explore best practices in governance, civic engagement, and urban development. They will also participate in cultural activities, community events, and stay with volunteer host families—offering a unique opportunity to experience daily life in the U.S. and build lasting cross-cultural connections.  

This May Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming eight (8) professionals from Africa participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program World Learning regional project Countering Violent Extremism – Community Strategies. This program was designed to explore the underlying conditions that fuel extremism – political grievances, communal conflicts, social structures, and economic disparity. During their stay this delegation will be examining community-based efforts designed to build strong community resistance to violent extremism in the U.S. They also will be exploring ways to promote tolerance, including community policing and prison rehabilitation programs and discussing how different sectors of American society work together to resist violent extremism, including government, academia, civil society, religious communities, and the private sector.

This spring, through our International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), female leaders will explore women's roles in politics, conflict resolution, peacemaking, and comparing mediation techniques and challenges. This program, administered by the Institute of International Education Program, looks to highlight their impact in civil society, government, business, and education in fostering stability. This program will also showcase female leadership mentorship and examine legal frameworks protecting women through constitutional, judicial, and legislative processes. This regional project for the Near East and North Africa welcomes international women leaders to Detroit from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iraq, Libya, and Algeria.

This May Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming six (6) Arab Israeli's examining the underlying conditions that lead to criminal activity and emerging solutions and initiatives designed to address them. During their visit in Detroit these delegates will be meeting with local Detroit organizations aiming to eradicate violence in urban areas, participate in discussions with law enforcement to understand ways that they gain community trust and youth engagement, and explore approaches to advance rights and advocate for reforms. They also will have a chance to learn more about the culture of metro-Detroit.

Through the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), the Economic Prosperity: Women and Small Business Entrepreneurship initiative is a multi-regional project that aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the entrepreneurial landscape in the United States, with a particular focus on women-led enterprises. Administered by the American Councils for International Education Program, this multi-regional project welcomes leaders from Angola, Azerbaijan, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Burma, Kosovo, Kyrgyz Republic, Morocco, Republic of Korea, Republic of North Macedonia, Rwanda, Samoa, Serbia, and Turkiye. By engaging with a diverse network of business leaders, policymakers, and advocacy groups, participants will gain the knowledge and resources necessary to enhance economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs in their respective countries, reflecting IVLP’s commitment to fostering global economic collaboration and strengthening the role of women in business, ultimately contributing to greater economic prosperity worldwide.

Through the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), this spring this multi-regional project will aim to assess U.S. strategies against international trafficking, particularly crimes against women and children, by reviewing policy formulation, enforcement, and administration. It examines government, law enforcement, courts, and organizations in prevention and prosecution while exploring victim support programs and international law enforcement collaboration in trafficking cases. The Human Trafficking Prevention and Mitigation program is being administered by the Institute of International Education Program. This multi-regional project welcomes leaders within their communities to Detroit, representing Argentina, Bangladesh, Barbados, Bulgaria, Fiji, Finland, Germany, India, Israel, Jamaica, Liberia, Lithuania, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal, Philippines, Poland, Republic of North Macedonia, Slovenia, United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.

The Open World Program is a unique, nonpartisan initiative administered by the Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL) and American Council for International Education that builds mutual understanding between the emerging global leaders and their U.S. counterparts.  It also exposes delegates to ideas and practices they can adapt for use in their own work.  The programming is focused on group meetings, seminars and round-table discussions.  Delegates participate in a range of social and cultural activities and stay in the homes of volunteer hosts in Metro Detroit, enhancing their understanding of life and culture in the United States. The 6-member delegation from Ukraine will explore best practices for veteran integration, including topics in health, housing, education, and employment.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting 3 head faculty members from the University of Nouakchott Al Aasriya in Mauritania participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program International Partnerships in Higher Education. During their stay these participants will be exploring the scope and role of university international program offices, specifically programs that encourage innovation and foster international academic collaboration. They also will be meeting with faculty of various universities in Southeast Michigan and higher education development resources to observe best practices for establishing university partnerships, learning how international partnerships can enhance global academic presence.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming twelve (12) climate change professionals participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program Digital Innovation in Climate Resilience. This program was designed for participants to examine how AI and digital technologies are being used to address climate change in the United States. They also will be strengthening digital cooperation skills to effectively leverage international partnerships and resources in the pursuit of climate resilience and mitigation goals, promoting a collaborative approach to global environmental challenges. 

Global Ties Detroit is excited to host our 2024 Holiday Party and Networking Event presented by TechTown Detroit on December 9th, 2024 at TechTown Detroit from 5-7pm. We will be celebrating the season, connecting with local and global professionals, and supporting the work of Global Ties in fostering a more connected, peaceful, and prosperous world. This event is free to attend, but if you would like to support us through a donation or sponsorship, any contributions are greatly appreciated. The event will feature networking opportunities, drinks and hors d'oeuvres, trivia, prizes, and, of course, great company -- including an international delegation from 12 countries. We hope you will join us for this special celebration. 

If you are interested in attending please RSVP by December 2nd at brianna@globaltiesdetroit.org

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with the International Visitor Leadership Program and FHI 360 to host seven (7) religious figures exploring religious and cultural pluralism and the experiences of Muslims in the United States. During their stay this delegation will be attending meetings with Islamic leaders to discuss religion in their communities, religious education in the United States, interreligious dialogue, curriculum and curriculum development for religious studies, civic engagement, governance and human rights issues. They also will be discussing issues of importance for Muslim-Americans in the national election. The main objective of this program is to engage with religious and community leaders to share approaches to interreligious and interfaith dialogue and cultivate understanding, tolerance, and community.

This November Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming twelve (12) young entrepreneurs from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) World Learning program Youth Entrepreneurship. This project will explore how business growth can be facilitated by all levels of government as well as non-profit and business communities in the United States.  The young aspiring entrepreneurs will be exposed to a wide array of programs that target young entrepreneurs. The objective of this program is to highlight the economic, political, and social factors that influence and encourage the development of small businesses, entrepreneurship, and innovation in the United States. They also will be demonstrating and examining the impact of youth on U.S. entrepreneurship and U.S. small businesses at the local, regional, national, and international levels. 

Ten (10) youth ambassadors will be visiting SE Detroit participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) American Councils for International Education program Honoring 75 Years of U.S.-Indonesia Relations. In celebration of 75 years of bi-lateral relations between the U.S. and Indonesia these participants will be examining American government, society, and culture. The objective of this program is to highlight the political, social, and economic partnership (CSP) between the U.S. and Indonesia. During their stay they will be meeting with political youth groups, civil society, young elected officials from diverse backgrounds, and members of the Senate Foreign Relations and House Foreign Affairs sub-committees focused on Asia. They also will be visiting various universities, meeting with student groups (including Indonesian student associations), and attend lectures.

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and American Councils for International Education to host a multiregional project Media Responsibility in an Age of Disinformation. Twentyfour (24) news media professionals and journalist will be participating in this program to study ways to combat disinformation in journalism. The objective of this program is to examine efforts at the federal, state, and local levels to counter the dissemination of disinformation and misleading reporting and introduce and provide broad exposure to the serious impact of the current threat posed by disinformation and deceptive news. During their stay in metro-Detroit these professionals will also be visiting various fact checking organizations, attend briefings with experts on the best methods for discerning misinformation and fostering reliable sources of information, and visit universities. 

Global Ties Detroit is honored to be welcoming five (5) professional leaders from Vietnam participating in the International Visitor Leadership program (IVLP) Institute of International Education program Freedom of Religion and Belief in Vietnam. This program aims to improve the protection of religious practitioners in Vietnam and promote a legal framework aligned with global norms for freedom of religion. One of the objective of this program is to support Vietnam’s implementation for decrees of its Law of Religion and beliefs that help improve protections for religious practitioners across Vietnam, especially in ethnic-minority populations. During their stay they will be meeting with U.S. government agencies, academic institutions, and faith-based groups to connect with experts in the fields of law, policy, practice, and religion.

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with The Congressional Office of International Programs Open World to host 5 media professionals and journalist participating in the Regional Journalism and Fighting Disinformation program. The Open World program is a unique, nonpartisan initiative of and funded by the United States Congress that builds mutual understanding between the emerging leaders of participating countries and their U.S. counterparts. The objective of this program aims to develop a network of leaders in journalism and media who are equipped to combat disinformation and enhance audience engagement through improved online platforms. Specifically targeting Lithuanian media professionals, the program seeks to strengthen their efforts against propaganda and support regional news. By exposing regional media leaders—such as editors, executives, and journalists—to U.S. media outlets, the program will emphasize the use of modern digital tools to effectively engage citizens and address the challenges faced by Lithuanian media in a disinformation-laden environment.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting eleven (11) higher education administrators participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) MCID Washington program Higher Education Partnerships. The objective of this program is education advocacy, financial governance, and the modernization of public institutions. During their stay they will be meeting with higher education accredited agencies, attend site visits to different colleges and universities, participate in policy discussions with U.S. Department of State and Education representatives.

This fall, Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) members of the Albanian State Police (ASP) participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) program designed to explore ways to promote safety and integrity in customs and border protection. They also will be examining the role of U.S. law enforcement and immigration agencies to ensure border safety, maintaining an orderly and transparent immigration system, and promoting security. The objectives of this program is to illustrate the roles of the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, examine techniques to combat trafficking in persons and to prevent illegal entry, as well as discuss the role of stakeholders at the international, federal, state, and local levels, including challenges related to asylum-seeking procedures and immigrant assistance programs.

The Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative(YTILI) is the U.S. Department of State's flagship program for emerging entrepreneurs from Europe. This two-way exchange program is designed to strengthen transatlantic relationships, develop sustainable partnerships between U.S. and European entrepreneurs and innovators, promote regional integration and cooperation in Europe, and encourage European businesses, governments and civil society to develop their innovation ecosystems. This September, Global Ties Detroit will welcome four YTILI fellows from the countries of Georgia, Italy, N. Macedonia, and Spain. The Metro Detroit program will include a four-week fellowship with a local business or organization, a home hospitality dinner, site visits to local businesses and organizations, networking opportunities, and meetings with members of the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. 

It's that time again to celebrate Diplomacy in Detroit. Global Ties Detroit is preparing for our biggest event of the year -- our Annual Dinner! This year we will be holding our Annual Dinner at the beautiful Edsel and Eleanor Ford House on Thursday, October 17th from 6-9 pm. 
Join us for drinks, dinner, silent auction, and networking. Engage with emerging leaders from around the world and Metro Detroit. Individual tickets are $150 and sponsorships start at $500. This event will sell out, so be sure to save your place now. We can't wait to see you there!

Tickets are now available for purchase here.

This fall seven (7) delegates from the Pacific Islands participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program Meridian International Center program Innovative Leadership in Higher Education and Workforce Development will be visiting Detroit! This program was designed for educators, school administrators, industry workforce recruiters, and government officials working on education issues from the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. This program allows them to explore the U.S. educational system and examine the role of educational institutions in promoting economic prosperity through workforce development. During their stay they will be visitng universities, schools, government and private sector stakeholders, and nonprofits. 

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be welcoming a cohort of fellows this September on the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP), a Department of State program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance Fellows’ leadership and professional skills, and build lasting and sustainable partnerships between emerging leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. In Metro Detroit, four YSEALI fellows from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam will have month-long fellowships at local businesses and organizations, learn about US professional culture, network with their local counterparts, and have the opportunity to explore SE Michigan.

This fall Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming eight (8) government officials participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program U.S. Elections to help Emerging Australian Political Leaders. During their stay they will be exploring campaign infrastructure, strategies, and techniques, such as media influence, countering false narratives, and outreach to minority communities. They also will be observing and analyzing the lead up to the 2024 U.S. elections to provide insights into U.S. governance, the electoral system, and consitutional framework. An objective of this program is to strengthen historic ties between Australia and the United States to highlight how the parties and their prospective platforms could shape U.S. policy moving forward.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming International Visitor Leadership Program Cultural Vistas delegation of seven (7) teachers from Switzerland. During their stay they will be exploring U.S. approaches and practices to provide primary and secondary school students from immigrant backgrounds with equal access to educational opportunities to develop intellectually and socially. This program consists of participants learning about the U.S. education system, research, and best practices for facilitating student success and access to educational curriculum in K-12 schools. They also will be discussing efforts to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in education to dismantle systemic discrimination.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be hosting the Career Connections Seminar this fall where we will be bringing together U.S. ExchangeAlumni and leaders in business, government, and other diverse fields to leverage their skills and networks. This program is a part of the U.S. Exchange Alumni Network and Capacity Building Program, which is implemented in partnership with the Office of Alumni Affairs in the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs at the U.S. Department of State. Whether U.S. alumni are changing careers, looking to advance, or just starting out, these professional development sessions provide invaluable opportunities to forge new connections, build on their international exchange experiences, and elevate their role as community leaders locally, nationally, and globally.

Registration is now available, for more information and to register click here .

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting 12 delegates participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program Cultural Vistas program Promoting Social Change Through Music. These delegates will be visiting from Belarus, Belgium, Bolivia, Cuba, Estonia, Latvia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Qatar, Sierra Leone, The People's Republic of China, and Uganda. This is a MultiRegional Project designed to allow delegates to learn about strategies for promoting inclusivity in music education as well as the economic impacts of musical preservation. During their stay they will be attending professional meetings, attending a home hospitality dinner, and connecting with their metro-Detroit counterparts.

This fall Global Ties Detroit will be hosting five (5) digital influencers from Malaysia to explore digital media and communications networks participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program Digital Diplomacy for Influencers. This program was designed to enhance participants understanding of U.S. digital media efforts in non profits, adopt new trends and best practices in digital content creation, and ways to combat disinformation. During their stay these delegates will be engaging with their U.S. counterparts to learn about the latest trends in digital media, exploring the impact of storytelling in content creation, and fostering cross-cultural collaboration and networking between U.S and Malaysian digital influencers, encouraging the exchange of ideas and promoting mutual understanding. 

This September Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming professionals from Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam in the YSEALI PFP Study Tour sponsored by the US Department of State and administered by the American Councils of International Education. These participants are participating in a two-way exchange program designed to strengthen leadership development, networking, and build lasting and sustainable relationships between leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. During this exchange program they will be attending cultural and social activities as well as leadership and professional development discussions.

This September Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) delegates from Kyrgyz Republic participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) World Learning program Human and Civil Rights for Marginalized Communities. This program is designed to explore the strategies of human and civil rights practitioners who advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, focusing on how they present their concerns to government and social influencers. During their stay participants will explore creative approaches to celebrating diversity, promoting inclusive public attitudes, addressing sensitive issues by working across institutional lines, and expanding valuable collaborative networks. They also will be participating in workshops focused on grassroots organizational strategies, advocacy, coalition-building, public outreach, and fundraising for human rights initiatives attending meetings at diverse human rights organizations that focus on vulnerable populations and utilize social media in their advocacy efforts, as well as attending meetings with representatives of minority communities impacted by the civil rights movement in the U.S.

This August we will be hosting eight (8) visitors from Indonesia participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Cultural Vistas program Maintaining Religious Tolerance. This program was designed to empower religious minority activists/CSOs and organizations that monitor and address rights violations, provide legal aid, and foster trust in public institutions. This delegation develops strategies for improving laws and norms supporting tolerance, diversity, and religious freedom to establish common values and organizational structures that ensure tolerance, diversity, religious freedom and minority groups rights. 

This August we will be welcoming nine (9) visitors from Ukraine participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program Mississippi Consortium for International Development program Cultural Management and Arts Entrepreneurship. This delegation is visiting metro-Detroit to explore innovative approaches to arts administration and foster dialogue between Ukrainian and American arts organizations. The participants will learn strategies to facilitate collaboration between artists from different cultural backgrounds and promote crosscultural exchanges in the arts. The participants will also learn how to link artists and broad societal innovation, particularly with regard to economic and job growth. During their stay they will engage with American museums, galleries, and arts organizations to gain insights into managing and promoting art events, exhibitions, and cultural projects. The focus will be on developing strategies that can be implemented in Ukraine to enhance the art ecosystem and support the growth of the arts community. 

Global Ties Detroit is partnering once again with Legacy International to host US Department of State-sponsored TechGirls!  Global Ties Detroit is welcoming young women (ages 15-17) from  Brazil, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, Suriname, and the U.S.! TechGirls is a program that empowers young women from all around the world (including the U.S.!) to pursue careers in science and technology. The program provides opportunities and support that allows these students to advance their skills as well as pursue their dreams. 

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) created to empower young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa through academic coursework, leadership training, mentoring, networking, professional opportunities, and local community engagement. This cohort of fellows is hosted in collaboration with Wayne State University and funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). This cohort of fellows will be hosted at 28 different educational institutions across the United States. Wayne State University along with other institutes will be helping to strengthen connections between the United States and Africa, establishing enduring partnerships between fellows, local communities, and private businesses.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming eight (8) professionals from the European Union, Georgia, Netherlands, Poland, Republic of North Macedonia, Republic of Türkiye, Spain, and United Kingdom participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program FHI 360 program The Contemporary U.S. Economy: Trade, Economic Development, and Financial Markets. During their stay this delegation will be examining the U.S. financial markets in their domestic and global contexts, learn U.S. perspectives on international economic and monetary issues, and gain opportunities to exchange views on the U.S.-Europe and the Republic of China's economic relationship. They also will be reviewing the U.S.'s efforts to strengthen its economy and the international economic system, including stimulating growth and employment, reforming financial institutions, and creating initiatives to assist the recovery of the financial sector domestically and internationally.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming four (4) professionals from Japan participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program Meridian International Center program Enhancing Japan's Academic Research Integrity through Export Controls and Visa Screening. This program was designed to highlight how universities and research institutes implement research integrity practices and engage the federal government to protect critical technology. During their stay this delegation will be meeting with university professors and researchers to understand how they implement research practices to engage the federal government to protect critical technologies. They also will be meeting with U.S. government officials and law enforcement to learn about the visa screening mechanisms for foreign researchers and students. 

Global Ties Detroit was featured on Fox 2 news! During this segment Global Ties Detroit President Marian Reich had the opportunity to speak about Global Ties Detroit's mission to forge lasting relationships with emerging international leaders. She also spoke about our upcoming TechGirls program that we are hosting in collaboration with Legacy International.

Tune into the segment here: https://www.fox2detroit.com/video/1484999

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be welcoming four (4) delegates participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) FHI 360 program Environmental Engagement and the Economies of Central Asia. This delegation includes participants from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, these delegates will be examining government policies that businesses take into consideration as they strive to ensure profitability and growth while being environmentally responsible. The objective of this program is to concentrate on cooperation in the environmental and energy sectors, with some focus on water and border issues. This delegation will also be observing relationships and alliances among all levels of government with citizen groups and private organizations to address the effects of global environmental challenges and ensure environmental protection.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) delegates from Israel participating in the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Ecosystems International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) administered by the Institute of International Education. This program was designed for delegates to examine the rise of technology entrepreneurship in the U.S. and how innovation in this sphere can drive social and economic change. During their stay they will be meeting with organizations that support the development of entrepreneurs such as incubators, academic institutions, and financial institutions. They also will be attending site-visits to start-ups as well as participating in discussions with federal, state, and local entities that support business growth and entrepreneurship.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Cultural Vistas delegation of six (6) media specialist from India participating in the Call to Climate Action: Building Public Awareness through Media Advocacy program. During their stay they will be examining media approaches to generate public awareness and influence policy makers to address climate crisis here in the U.S. They also will be observing how environmental policy-making and media campaigns can be linked with solutions to improve human and ecosystem health and assure adequate food and water supplies, while simultaneously developing media strategies to promote public engagement in environmental conservation to limit global warming.

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with American Councils for International Education and International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) to host ten (10) delegates participating in the Empowering Organizations Working with Refugees and Migrants in Poland program. During their stay they will be examining federal, state, and local government policies and programs to resettle and integrate refugees that arrive through U.S. Refugee Resettlement Programs as well as through other channels. They also will be learning about private sector efforts to combat discrimination and integrate immigrant and minority communities, as well as gaining insight on public-private partnerships to address the needs of refugees and immigrants. 

Sponsored by the Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL), Global Ties Detroit will welcome a delegation of six (6) government and community leaders from Latvia to focus on an ESCO model toward the topic of “Green Solutions.  These leaders will explore best practices in helping local communities and their leaders find ways to improve their energy efficiency through energy conservation measures and energy-saving opportunities. Program activities will focus not only on conserving energy and combating heat loss, which is a major issue in older buildings,  but also a focus on the financial tools and incentives that American communities, local governments and/or municipalities employ to encourage energy conservation.

The Professional Fellows Program for Eurasia (PFP EUR) is the U.S. Department of State's flagship program for emerging entrepreneurs from across Eurasia. It aims to empower Eurasian business and social entrepreneurs to build linkages with their counterparts in the United States, strengthen their entrepreneurial and leadership skills, and create a transatlantic network of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators. This spring Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming one fellow from Turkiye and two fellows from Ukraine for a four-week fellowship program with local organizations and government offices in SE Michigan.

The Professional Fellows Program for the Middle East and North Africa is a two way exchange program that is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. This program is 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. This year Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming ten (10) fellows from Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia. These 10 fellows will be participating in a four-week fellowship program where they will be placed at different organizations and businesses across metro Detroit.

The Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative (YTILI) is the U.S. Department of State's flagship program for emerging entrepreneurs from Europe. This year, Global Ties Detroit welcomes 7 fellows from Germany, Ireland, Montenegro, Netherlands, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain. This two-way exchange program is designed to strengthen transatlantic relationships, develop sustainable partnerships between U.S. and European entrepreneurs and innovators, promote regional integration and cooperation in Europe, and encourage European businesses, governments and civil society to develop their innovation ecosystems. The Detroit program includes a four-week fellowship with a local business or organization, home hospitality dinners, site visits to local businesses and organizations, and cultural outings

The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP) is a fully-funded exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. Two (2) emerging leaders from Cambodia and the Philippines will come to Detroit for a 4 week fellowship program where they will be placed at organizations and businesses across Southeast Michigan. The program is designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance Fellows’ leadership and professional skills, and build lasting and sustainable partnerships between emerging leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting five (5) delegates participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) CRDF Global program from South Korea! These participants are political staffers who work as policy advisors to advise members of the National Assembly. The objective of this program is to deepen understanding of the U.S. government's approach to supply chain diversification and policy coordination. During their stay they will be exploring U.S. supply chain diversification goals and policy coordination across the government. They also will be examining various national issues that influence policies affecting the U.S. supply chain.

This May Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming seven (7) mid career professionals from Canada working in fields consisting of business, government, and academia. This program is designed to strengthen cross border cooperation among small and medium sized enterprises, especially owned by people of diverse backgrounds. The objective of this program is to train Canadians working within and for services associated with minority-and-Indigenous-owned Small-and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs). These participants will also be fostering connections between SMEs from underrepresented communities to increase their participation in U.S.-Canadian trade.

Global Ties Detroit is inviting you to our Global Get-Together Networking and World Trivia Event! We are excited to be hosting over 20 entrepreneurs from over 16 different countries! This event is open to the public and we will be providing light refreshments and appetizers. Registration is required. 
Join us Thursday, May 16th from 5:30-7pm for a fun night of networking and world trivia (with prizes)! We can't wait to see you there - get your tickets today! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/global-get-together-tickets-890562284767?aff=oddtdtcreator

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming 12 teachers and educational professionals from Cambodia, Cameroon, Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Russia, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan participating in the TESOL exchange program. During their stay this group will be exploring ways to teach social emotional learning skills to youth, staff, and families to benefit the well-being of the community while ensuring that mental health is a top priority. They will have the opportunity to visit elementary schools, high schools, colleges, and organizations,. They also will attend and participate in cultural outings. 

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming eight (8) law enforcement officials from Algeria, Lebanon, Oman, and Tunisia participating in the IVLP Meridian International Center project  Cooperative Efforts in Combating Transnational Crime for the Indo-Pacific and SCA. During their stay this delegation will be exploring the role of law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities at the federal, state, and local levels to detect, investigate, and prosecute various transnational crimes, such as financial and organized crimes, the trafficking and smuggling of people and goods, and terrorism. They also will be exploring initiatives that identify and address root causes of crime, through participating in meetings as well as attending site visits. 

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) and FHI 360 to host a delegation of law officials to improve understanding about how social developments, economic opportunities, education, entrepreneurship, political participation, and leadership, can serve as tools for combating violence. During their stay this delegation will be examining education and outreach initiatives which focus on women’s legal rights, the responsibility of men and boys to avoid perpetuating gender-based violence, and combating trafficking in persons. They also will be discussing techniques to identify forms of gender-based abuse, report abuse, prosecute abusers, and provide assistance and techniques to protect victims of gender-based violence.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) educators participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program from Oman Higher Education Partnerships. This program is designed to build and reinforce the efforts to strengthen the connections  between the U.S. and Middle East and North African universities. These delegates will participate in attending meetings, site visits, and activities focused on the accreditation process, expansion of Fulbright program opportunities, and recruitment strategies for American students to attend MENA institutions, receive potential university partnerships, and obtain intellectual freedom and critical thinking. During their stay these participants will be examining higher education administrations at public, private, and land grant universities as well as examine U.S. strategies that promote intellectual freedom and innovation.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting eleven (11) delegates from Croatia, Czech Republic, Georgia, Germany, Lithuania, Moldova, Poland, Republic of Türkiye, Spain, and Ukraine participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program Promoting Human and Civil Rights of Minorities. The objective of this program is to introduce different political and social perspectives on ethnic, cultural, gender, racial, and religious minority community rights and review the legislative framework that protects equal rights for all communities. During their stay this delegation will be examining U.S. and international initiatives to promote and protect the human rights of minority, immigrant, and refugee communities. They also will be exploring equal access to educational, economic, and healthcare opportunities for members of minority, immigrant, and refugee communities.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting ten (10) delegates participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program Promoting Religious Freedom as a Constitutional Right. This program was designed for participants representing different religious and secular communities in South India to engage with counterparts in the United States on advocating for religious freedom in the context of constitutional rights and building bridges between religious groups. During their stay this delegation will be examining the legal and practical challenges of promoting religious freedom and diversity in public and political life in the United States.

Launched in 2015, the U.S. Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) empowers emerging business and social entrepreneurs from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States, to realize the full economic potential of the region’s citizens. Global Ties Detroit is excited to welcome thirteen fellows from the Bahamas, Costa Rica, Cuba, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, Suriname, and Venezuela in 2024. While here, they will participate in a four-week fellowship program with local business and organizations, home hospitality dinners, site visits to local businesses and organizations, and cultural outings. The unique opportunities the YLAI program provides for the creation of cross-cultural partnerships, networking, and cultural exchange will enrich not only the lives and businesses of the fellows and their home communities, but metro Detroit as well. 

This April Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming four (4) delegates from France participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program Promoting Education and Empowerment of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. This program will explore U.S. efforts to provide equal access to education and to remove barriers to full participation in social, economic, and political life for people who are deaf and hard of hearing in the United States. The objective of this program is to introduce the Americans with Disabilities Act and its application in U.S. education and society with a focus on people who are deaf or hard of hearing to participants.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting 21 delegates from Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Burma, Burundi, Fiji, Georgia, Germany, Hong Kong S.A.R., Iraq, Ireland, Israel, Jamaica, Kenya, Latvia, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Morocco, Poland,  Republic of Macedonia, and Ukraine participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) World Learning Youth and Civic Engagement program. The objective of this program is to examine leadership strategies and communication skills used to manage political and social challenges while balancing divergent social demands and interests. During their stay these delegates will be participating in workshops on fostering alliances and leadership development. They also will be sitting in on meetings and sessions highlighting the use and benefits of news and social media.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming nine (9) media specialist and journalist participating in the American Councils for International Education International Visitor Leadership Program delegation from Estonia! This delegation will be visiting the metro-Detroit area examining how media outlets in the United States improve reporting to multi-lingual local communities. Participants will also be examining current trends and challenges in the U.S. media outlets used to reach out to local communities.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be hosting our Global Gathering networking event sponsored by Visit Detroit. We will be joining together with 36 international visitors from over 33 different countries at the beautiful Belle Isle Aquarium! These countries include Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Burma, Burundi, Costa Rica, Cuba, Fiji, Georgia, Germany, Guatemala, Haiti, Hong Kong S.A.R., Honduras, India, Iraq, Ireland, Kenya, Latvia, Lebanon, Libya, Mexico, Moldova, Morocco, Panama, Poland, Republic of North Macedonia, Suriname, Ukraine, and Venezuela. This event is open to the public and we will be providing light refreshments and appetizers. Join us March 14th to get to know some of our amazing delegations and fellows, and celebrate diversity and global exchange!

All are welcome! Tickets are $20, visit https://shorturl.at/amyA7 to purchase tickets.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting ten (10) English-speaking educators participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) American Councils for International Education program American Language and Multicultural Diversity. These nine (9) educators are visiting from Armenia, Bangladesh, Curacao, Egypt, Hungary, Kuwait, Nepal, Republic of Türkiye, and Sri Lanka to enhance their understanding of American culture and history as context for English-language education. During their stay this delegation will be observing U.S. classrooms, from kindergarten to 12th grade and discuss on how technology is being used to further reading and language learning. They also will be interacting with teachers and students in primary and secondary schools, including English as a Second Language (ESL) and other foreign-language classrooms to see how new immigrants and Americans learn other languages.

Once again Global Ties Detroit is partnering with Freedom IT Schools in Belarus to host the Virtual Exchange Program (VEP) that is administered by World Learning and funded by USAID. This youth leadership program is designed to help high school students studying IT in Belarus develop soft skills, practice project management, learn about career development opportunities, and gain emotional intelligence skills. This program includes six (6) sessions with twenty (20) students. A total of 140 participants will be involved in this program and eager to learn and connect with Americans. The virtual multisession program will be held for a period of three (3) weeks.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) young leaders from India participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program Social Media Strategies for Building Community Resilience. This program is designed to expose these young leaders to U.S. models of social campaigns designed to build strong community resilience. During their stay this delegation will be discussing best practices in promoting diversity, tolerance, and inclusion in educational institutions, interfaith groups, and community policing programs. They also will be exploring how U.S. Government agencies (Federal, State, and Local) engage with local communities in areas such as civic engagement, education, religion, law enforcement, and job training.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Cultural Vistas program Investigating and Prosecuting Human Rights Violations from Kazakhstan. We will be hosting four (4) government officials visiting to connect with their counterparts as well as examine the federal laws and monitoring of civil rights. During their stay these delegates will be meeting with local law enforcement to learn about local rules for maintaining citizens’ civil rights, examining cooperation between police and prosecutors as it relates to investigations, and meeting with local law enforcement to discuss training efforts and police protocols for arrest and detention.

This February we will be welcoming six (6) emerging women leaders participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Mississippi Consortium for International Development (MCID) sponsored Women in Business program from Egypt. The goal of this program is to increase the participation of women in Egyptian and global economy and observe the effectiveness of new startups, innovator hobs, and incubators in creating jobs and access to capital and leadership development. During their stay these women will be examining factors in the U.S. used to encourage women to become entrepreneurs and leaders in their communities. They also will discover strategies for leadership development, marketing, education, and innovation.

Global Ties Detroit will be working with IVLP and Meridian International Center to host ten (10) delegates from Azerbaijan, Barbados, Cambodia, Nigeria, Poland, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Zimbabwe. During their stay these delegates will be examining the role of arts education in encouraging young people to be responsible and engaged members of society. They will also be participating in discussions about the involvement of the private sector in the arts, art associations, unions, cooperatives, and corporate and foundational support for the arts.

We will be partnering with IVLP and World Learning to host 18 delegates from Albania, Argentina, Brazil, Croatia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Nepal, Nigeria, Poland, Republic of Turkiye, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tunisia, and Uganda participating in the Global Economic Cooperation program. This group of delegates include economists, financial policy makers, entrepreneurs, business leaders, and business journalists. The objective of this program is to examine international economic cooperation in the context of the growth and integration of emerging markets into the global economy. They will also be exploring how the global economy affects local businesses and communities. During their stay they will have the opportunity to meet with think tanks and federal agencies to examine the structure of U.S. financial institutions and participate in discussions on local and national strategies to boost the U.S. economy.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming five (5) delegates participating in the IVLP Meridian International Center delegation from Tajikistan. This delegation is made up of government officials working in fields consisting of security and border controls. During their stay these government officials will be examining U.S. border and security models and concerns at national, state, and local levels. They will also learn about new technology to control border entry as well as meet with different resources from different agencies to discuss recruitment, manpower, retention, and training. One of their objectives for this program is to examine how their counterparts detect and dismantle international crime stemming from border insecurity, whether human trafficking, drug trafficking, money laundering, or terrorism.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to welcome a delegation of government officials, religious leaders, and business leaders taking part in the IVLP Meridian International Center program from Pakistan. This program is designed for delegates to generate ideas for developing and promoting religious tourism in Pakistan. During their stay this delegation will participate in meetings and discussions focused on the economic benefits of tourism and how to help inform leaders of tourists’ needs and expectations. They will also focus on administrative factors, including visa categories, infrastructure, transportation, and security. 

The American Leadership Experience (ALEX) program is a U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs sponsored program. The ALEX program is a three week program that focuses on civic education, leadership, project development, community service, and diversity and inclusion and fosters topics of mutual understanding, respect, and civic engagement. We will be hosting ten (10) young leaders between the ages of 18-20 years old from Ukraine staying in Detroit for one week. During their week in SE Michigan, the ALEX group will meet with government officials, community leaders, faculty and college students, and more. They will also take part in home hospitality dinners, volunteer at community organizations, and engage in cultural activities and sports events for an active and well-rounded program. 

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting eight (8) women professionals from Turkiye participating in the IVLP Meridian International Center program Women in Law Enforcement! These women participating in this program are representatives from Turkish law enforcement agencies and will be examining policies and strategies to advance and support women in law enforcement leadership. During their stay they will be visiting law enforcement entities, which will include local police as well as federal border patrol agents, learning how women contribute to the field and practice of law enforcement. The objective of this program is to study topics including leadership, mentoring, professional development, career planning, and women’s roles in law enforcement.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting twelve (12) government officials, politicians, NGO leaders, and journalists participating in the Foreign Policy project delegation. These twelve (12) delegates are from Austria, the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Republic of North Macedonia, Republic of Turkiye, Romania, Serbia, Slovak Republic, United Kingdom, and USNATO. This project is sponsored by IVLP and administered by Meridian International Center designed to allow participants to explore U.S. economic, political, and security goals while exposing them to the U.S. foreign policy decision making process. During their stay these delegates will be meeting with key players in the U.S. foreign policy decision making process, have discussions with national security professionals, as well as meet and talk to university professors and students about world affairs topics.

The Women in Manufacturing program is a IVLP sponsored Meridian International Center administered program designed to showcase best practices used in the United  women manufacturing sector in hiring, retention, and workforce development. Global Ties Detroit will be hosting a delegation of ten (10) human resource officers, trade school students, and women working in manufacturing. The objective of this program is to allow participants to learn and network with women in the manufacturing workplace to examine ways to recruit, develop, and retain women in this field. These delegates will have the opportunity to meet with women owned businesses and organizations, have discussions with their counterparts in manufacturing, and go on cultural activities.

The U.S. Jordan Leadership Exchange Program (UJLEP) is designed to support emerging Jordanian leaders who help to develop growth in their economy while strengthening ties between the U.S. and Jordan. The goal of this program is to build a network of emerging Jordanian leaders to evolve in their designated career paths and interests. This is a two-way exchange program where fellows will spend 4 weeks immersed in Detroit communities and culture through visits to organizations and businesses, participate in volunteer work, and attend cultural and social activities to advance their leadership and technical skills. They will also be participating in a four week fellowship program where they have the opportunity to work at businesses and organizations relevant to their professional experiences and interests.

This October thirteen (13) professionals from nine (9) countries across the Near East and North Africa are participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program sponsored Institute of International Education administered Science and Technology Entrepreneurship program. This delegation will be visiting Detroit exploring models of technology commercialization in the United States and ways to successfully transfer scientific discoveries and technology breakthroughs. These professionals will also be examining legal framework and regulatory management and marketing strategies to access and develop innovations in many sectors through discussions with investors and visits to institutions, universities, and research labs.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting five (5) educators,ncivil servants, and government officials participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program Meridian International Center delegation from Indonesia. These delegates will be visiting Detroit to explore accommodations made under the Americans with Disabilities Act as a potential model for a more inclusive society economy in Indonesia. The objective of this program is to promote data driven policy-making related to disability rights and inclusion. They will also be examining strategies and best practices for fully including students/participants with disabilities in academic and vocational training programs and careers.

The Professional Fellows Program for Eurasia (PFP EUR) is the U.S. Department of State's flagship program for emerging entrepreneurs from across Eurasia. It aims to empower Eurasian business and social entrepreneurs to build linkages with their counterparts in the United States, strengthen their entrepreneurial and leadership skills, and create a transatlantic network of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators. This September will be welcoming one fellow from Turkiye and two fellows from Ukraine for a four-week fellowship program with local organizations and government offices in SE Michigan. 

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming three (3) fellows participating in the U.S. Department of State sponsored Young SouthEast Asian Leadership Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP). These three fellows are mid-level professionals (between the ages of 25-35) from Malaysia and Myanmar who were chosen through a highly competitive merit-based selection process. YSEALI PFP is a dual exchange program that promotes mutual understanding, enhances leadership and professional skills, and builds lasting and sustainable relationships between emerging leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. These fellows will be focusing on improving their skills in civic engagement, economic empowerment, governance and society, and sustainable development and the environment. 

The Professional Fellows Program MENA (PFP MENA) is a two-way exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and administered by Legacy International designed to promote economic empowerment in the Middle East and North Africa. Fellows participating in this program will be participating in intensive fellowships in local government offices, NGOs, businesses, and organizations. These fellowships are designed for each fellow to explore relationships between American civil society and government to help broaden the Fellow’s professional experience. The objective of this program is to help Fellow’s enhance their business and leadership skills while simultaneously building lasting partnerships between mid-level emerging leaders committed to strengthening their communities. 

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be hosting the U.S. Department of State sponsored Meridian International Center administered Virtual Entrepreneurship program from Syria! This program is a three week virtual program designed to examine the effectiveness of the business sector in alleviating poverty, examine the legal and regulatory systems, and discuss societal barriers facing entrepreneurs. During this program these 14 delegates will be looking over best practices in business management, advocacy, and social entrepreneurship. They will also be meeting with women’s organizations to examine the role of women’s leadership and mentorship in Detroit.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting five (5) women from Japan participating in the IVLP Institute of International Education program Empowering Women Managers in Manufacturing delegation. The objective of this program is to learn about women-owned businesses in the United States and explore how the automobile, tech, and manufacturing sectors support the advancement of women in business. These five women will be exploring the challenges that women business representatives experience in reaching leadership positions and gaining international experience specifically in the automobile and other manufacturing sectors. During their stay these delegates will be meeting with women owned businesses to discuss opportunities for women in business to work abroad. They will also be meeting with NGO's as well as U.S. automobile enterprises to address gender gaps in the workforce and in business. 

The Promoting Diversity in the Workplace program is an IVLP program designed to allow participants to develop understanding of how women succeed in business and in executive roles in the United States. Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) delegates working in human affairs from businesses based in Kyushu, Japan. These delegates will be exposed to case studies on how U.S. businesses and academia support women managers and executives. They will also examine the benefits and strategic opportunities enabled by diversity in workplaces and leadership. During their stay this delegation will have the opportunity to go on visits to companies with high ratios of women executives, meetings with businesses and organizations aimed at developing women leadership, as well as having discussions with U.S. businesses and academia that support diversity in leadership positions.

The Foreign Press Center is an on-the-record reporting tour that allows foreign journalists to report on policy-relevant topics. This project was designed to promote accurate and balanced reporting on the United States by foreign media outlets, by providing participants with direct access to American information sources. Global Ties Detroit will be hosting fifteen (15) journalists participating in this program nominated by the U.S. Embassies. While these journalists will be reporting based on tour content, this program also allows participants to publish quality reporting, and to expand their understanding of U.S. culture, society, and values.

In August six (6) Egyptian women judges, lawyers, prosecutors, and journalists will be visiting Detroit taking part in the IVLP American Councils for International Education program Promoting Gender Equality in the Egyptian Justice System. This project was designed to advance gender equality and the empowerment of women. These six women will participate in meetings, site visits, and activities that focus on women professional development programs, the history and evolution of women in legal professions, and associations that support women legal experts. The main objective of this program is to expose Egyptian female legal professionals to the history of women’s legal participation in the United States and familiarize them with U.S. legal principles in theory and practice. 

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting ten (10) delegates from North Macedonia participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Meridian International Center program Incorporating Youth in Addressing Historical Memory and Promoting a Just and Civil Society. This delegation is a group of professionals who work in academia, NGO staffers, and lawyers who have experience working on issues related to minority issues. The objective of this program is for delegates to examine model programs in the U.S. that aim to to engage youth and minority populations in a variety of contexts including economic growth, civic activities, and political affairs. During their stay they will be meeting with elected officials to discuss how they are incorporating policies aimed at reconciling grievances between communities on a local level. They will also be visiting academic institutions and having discussions with civil society organizations to examine ways to further create tolerant communities. 

Fostering Inclusion and Respect of Local Communities is a project where we will be hosting eight (8) educators from Poland. These educators promote tolerance among youth to further empower their efforts and influence in their own local communities. The objective of this program is for these educators to promote tolerance, understanding, and acceptance for all, regardless of race, age, gender, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation as a strategic goal for Poland. This program will focus on teaching these educators how to build up local organizations to promote the tolerance of all minorities. They will also be exploring creative approaches to promote diversity, foster inclusive public attitudes, and expand collaborative networks. A goal for this program is for these educators to build relationships with U.S. organizations and institutions that are committed to promoting dialogue and inclusion of marginalized groups. 

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) American Councils for International Education Achieving NDC Goals by Generation 2030 by Year 2030 is a program designed to monitor government efforts to achieve Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This delegation is a mix of social media influencers, NGO activists, journalists, and politicians from South Korea working on climate change and carbon neutral efforts. During their stay these delegates will be exploring carbon neutral programs and strategies at federal and state levels in the United States to move towards 2030 NGO goals. They also will participate in invigorating discussions about civil society trends and the role of young environmental activists and experts. 

The Innovation in the U.S. and Transportation Sectors is a project designed to allow delegates to examine innovative energy technologies, the state of e-mobility and charging infrastructures, and the testing of automated vehicles in the United States. We will be hosting eight (8) professionals from Germany.  During their stay these professionals will be able to meet with U.S. companies that are interested in entering the European market to explore business opportunities. They will also have the chance to explore economic opportunities provided by the transformation of energy and mobility. Some of the businesses that they will have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with are the Departments of Energy (DOE), The National Institute of Standards and Technology, non-profit organizations, and state and local governments.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) delegates from Kyrgyzstan as part of The Public Private Partnerships for Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Development program. These delegates are from the Bishkek City Development and Investment Promotion Agency (BCDIPA) visiting to meet with their Michigan counterparts to understand how U.S. city governments attract economic investments in sustainable urban infrastructure. This program is designed to examine how American governments raise capital to finance climate friendly infrastructure projects through public-private partnerships. During their stay these delegates will be meeting with local environmental organizations to understand their influence on infrastructure, city transportation agencies to explore how they encourage and finance public transit projects, and city housing and social services agencies to learn about how they partner with private organizations to provide services for low income communities.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting eleven (11) social entrepreneurs to examine the rise of social entrepreneurship in the United States and how innovation in the U.S. can improve social, economic, and environmental change. The objective of this program is to explore best practices in the United States to promote social advancement and economic empowerment progress. They also will be connecting with social entrepreneurs from disadvantaged groups who have used their organizations to advance a cause and give a voice to their communities. These social entrepreneurs will be participating in community service activities, home hospitality dinners, university visits, and meetings with their U.S. counterparts specifically in creative industries with the potential to evolve into U.S. partnerships and collaborations.

Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming ten (10) English-speaking professionals from the African Union Commission taking part in the International Visitor Leadership program sponsored Meridian International administered program Best Practices to Improve Food Security. These ten delegates are visiting from Ethiopia and South Africa developing strategies to increase domestic financing for food security and nutrition programs. The objective of this program is to secure greater political commitment and investment in nutrition to address ongoing challenges. This program offers the opportunity for the United States to both support the African Union in their thematic year endeavor while addressing mutual strategic goals, such as promoting growth, trade, and investment; enhancing global health security; and promoting opportunity, development, and climate change counter measures

In collaboration with Meridian International Center, the U.S. Department of State is sponsoring a building tour for Russian journalists who are living in exile outside of Russia. This program is designed to allow these journalists to explore resources and build connections to establish independent media operations outside of Russia. They also will be working to maintain safe and fact-based reporting on the war in Ukraine. During their time in the U.S. these journalists will be discussing topics including countering disinformation, war reporting, online safety training, and reporting under the threat of authoritarianism. 

The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) World Learning Women’s Entrepreneurship project will examine the promotion and support that women entrepreneurs in the United States receive. The objective of this project is to assist participants in creating a network of women entrepreneurs and leaders across Kazakhstan and creating networking connections across the United States while simultaneously examining ways to overcome gender bias. During their visit in Detroit they will be interacting with women business owners by discussing the similar and different experiences and challenges that they may come across in their career. They also will be discussing effective policies to support entrepreneurship and public and private sector methods to facilitate market access.

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) created to empower young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa through academic coursework, leadership training, mentoring, networking, professional opportunities, and local community engagement. This cohort of fellows is hosted in collaboration with Wayne State University and funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA). This cohort of fellows will be hosted at 28 different educational institutions across the United States. This six-week program is designed to support the development of these fellows leadership skills through academic study, skill-building workshops, and collaboration with Americans. Wayne State University along with other institutes will be helping to strengthen connections between the United States and Africa, establishing enduring partnerships between fellows, local communities, and private businesses.

The 21st Century Changemakers: Countering Disinformation among Older Adults project is a U.S. Department of State sponsored Mississippi Consortium for International Development administered program. This program is designed to offer English-speaking teachers and adult education administrators with the opportunity to observe current and new English language curriculum trends and developments. One of the objectives to this program is to introduce and grant exposure to the threat that disinformation causes and to explore strategies on how to teach senior citizens ways to use social media, learn about privacy concerns, and on-line ethics to help counter disinformation. We will be hosting these  11 educators for 5 days. During their stay here they will be attending sessions on programs that help teach older adults media literacy, workshops that give an overview of new multi-media educational products used in teaching older adults, and get the change to interact with teachers and students in English as a second language and foreign language classrooms. 

Global Ties Detroit is partnering once again with Legacy International to host US Department of State-sponsored TechGirls!  Global Ties Detroit is welcoming young women (ages 15-17) from Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Honduras and Suriname! TechGirls is a program that empowers young women from all around the world (including the U.S.!) to pursue careers in science and technology. The program provides opportunities and support that allows these students to advance their skills as well as pursue their dreams. 

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting 6 delegates from the United Kingdom participating in the IVLP American Councils for International Education Performance, Arts, and Activism program. These delegates are made up of activists and performance artists who work in diverse backgrounds like freelance, acting, producing, writing, and directing. This project is designed to allow participants to explore and deepen connections between people from different communities to foster increased cooperation in their outreach and work. They will also be connecting with innovators, artists, and social activists in the metro-Detroit area to learn about practices that are underrepresented in the United Kingdom’s theater scene. 

NGO Management is an International Visitors Leadership Program sponsored, FHI 360 administered program hosting non-governmental organization professionals from Thailand. This program is designed to give participants the opportunity to examine the role of NGO management in the United States in fields including health, education, human rights, the environment, at-risk youth, and the arts to further develop and publicize NGO’s and their works. We will be hosting 5 participants that will be attending meetings with non-profit organizations, professional associations, federal agencies, foundations, and public service organizations. During their time here they will be examining innovative non-profit management practices, strategic planning, use of social media and new technologies, fundraising, and board development.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting the IVLP MCID Preventing Domestic and Gender Based Violence delegation from Kazakhstan focused on advancing human and civil rights and examining cutting edge techniques for working with both the victim and the abuser to address ongoing, and difficult problems within domestic violence. This delegation is made up of seven (7) human rights advocates, psychologists, and court representatives that are survivors of gender based violence aiming to work with victims of domestic and gender based violence cases as well as abusers. They will also be reviewing best practices to prevent gender-based violence through programs that educate abusers and raise consciousness about abuse. Some of the initiatives that they will be exploring will focus on women’s legal rights, the responsibility of men and boys to avoid perpetuating gender-based violence, as well as combating trafficking.

The International Visitors Leadership Program Cultural Vistas delegation of Pakistani IT professionals are visiting Detroit to learn how large organizations in the US promote cyber-threat awareness and the minimum requirements and best practices for information access control. The objective of this program is to reduce the risk of financial crime and safely increase access to financial services of the large unbanked populations. We will be hosting 4 delegates from Pakistan who will be meeting with cyber security consultants and bank regulators to learn about required cyber-security protections. These participants will learn how to strengthen cyber protections in Pakistan to attract investments as well as private sector lead economic growth.

Global Ties Detroit will be hosting recently elected women political leaders from Tamil Nadu India. The objective of this program is to examine the U.S. political system and the participation of women leaders at the local, state, and national levels. They also will be demonstrating how women can work with counterparts across party lines to advocate for legislation and policy reforms on issues particularly affecting women and children. These women will be studying how U.S. stakeholders strengthen women’s rights, address barriers, and will be able to access resources that empower women to participate in the political process. They also will be participating in workshops focused on women’s leadership, networking, and coalition and alliance building. 

This June Global Ties Detroit will be welcoming 34 professionals from Brunei, Burma, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam in the YSEALI PFP Study Tour sponsored by the US Department of State and administered by the American Councils of International Education. These participants are participating in a two-way exchange program designed to strengthen leadership development, networking, and build lasting and sustainable relationships between leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. During this exchange program they will be attending cultural and social activities as well as leadership and professional development discussions.

Launched in 2015, the U.S. Department of State’s Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) empowers emerging business and social entrepreneurs from across Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and the United States, to realize the full economic potential of the region’s citizens. YLAI fosters prosperity, inclusive development, and democratic values, and equips young people, especially women, to transform their societies. Global Ties Detroit is excited to welcome fourteen entrepreneurs from Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, and Mexico to the Detroit area in 2023. While here, they will participate in four-week fellowships with local business and organizations, home hospitality dinners, site visits to local businesses and organizations, and cultural outings. The unique opportunities the YLAI program provides for the creation of cross-cultural partnerships, networking, and cultural exchange will enrich not only the lives and businesses of the fellows and their home communities, but metro Detroit as well. 

The Environmental Engagement and Economy program is an International Visitor Leadership program sponsored, Mississippi Consortium for International Development administered program that will be focusing on exploring the efforts of government, civil society, and private sector factors to promote economic growth while protecting the environment. Global Ties Detroit will be hosting nine (9) English speaking participants from the Indo-Pacific and Central Asia that will be examining the factors that government policies and businesses take into consideration as they strive to ensure profitability and growth while being environmentally responsible. These participants will participate in discussions centered on U.S. efforts to promote improved understanding, assessment, prediction, and response to natural and human-induced disasters. They will also be visiting national and state park reserves to explore ecotourism development and conservation problems, as well as meeting with industry representatives to discuss environmental stewardship.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be partnering with the Department of State and American Councils International Education sponsored program, Professional Fellows Program (PFP). This program for Europe and Eurasia is a two-way, global exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership and professional skills, as well as build lasting, sustainable partnerships between mid-level emerging leaders. This is a month long program where these fellows will be working four days a week and participating in a one day professional development. We are welcoming two emerging leaders in government from Moldova and Turkey.  These young professionals are working to improve the quality of life in their respective countries, as well as promote accountability, transparency, and efficiency in government services.

The Professional Fellows Program MENA (PFP) is a CRDF Global, Legacy International sponsored program. Global Ties Detroit will be working with them once again to host four (4) fellows from Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia. This program is a two-way exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership and professional skills, and to build sustainable relationships between mid-level emerging leaders. Their goal is to strengthen their communities through social entrepreneurship and workforce development.

Back for another year, we welcome the Exchange for Pakistani Secondary Educators/Administrators (EPSEA). Sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan, Global Ties Detroit is working with Oakland University to provide an educational opportunity for secondary teachers in Pakistan to develop skills in identifying and providing support services to students who may have a learning disability or a condition that can impede learning. Global Ties Detroit is working with Oakland University to facilitate cultural activities, dinner hospitality and excursions to fully immerse the teachers into Detroit's history and community. This program reinforces the themes of education for students with disabilities, access and equity in education for all, as well as in U.S. public diplomacy goals.

Global Public Health Challenges is a International Visitors Leadership Program sponsored, Meridian International Center administered program hosting public health officials from the Western Hemisphere. This project supports the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA), which is a network of countries, international and non-governmental organizations, and private sector companies that are working to minimize the emergence and spread of infectious diseases. These delegates will be examining key practices to manage wide spread diseases, combating disinformation and misinformation, medical response preparedness, and strategies for working with international partners during a pandemic. This project includes site visits to local health health facilities, discussions, meetings with national associations, and meetings with community-based organizations responding to certain health concerns.

The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP) is a U.S. Department of State sponsored two-way exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance leadership and professional skills, and build lasting and sustainable partnerships between emerging leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. We will be hosting two (2) fellows from Malaysia and the Philippines. These fellows will be participating in leadership and professional development activities under the themes of civic engagement, economic empowerment, governance and society, and sustainable development and the environment. They also will take part in a month-long fellowship program where they will work at businesses and organizations relevant to their professional experience and interests. 

Advancing Influence of Women in Public Policymaking is a FHI 360 administered program designed to provide young Bengali women with the opportunity to learn more about policy and advocacy strategies seeking to elevate women at federal, state, and local levels of government. We are excited to be hosting 6 (six) Bangladeshi women legislators and staffers to impart insights on advancement in the U.S. of women in policymaking and policy implementation roles. The objective of this program is to bring awareness to these participants and show them the representation of women in government and political parties in the U.S. Women in Bangladesh are underrepresented in government and political parties and this program will allow these women to learn how U.S. branches of government work together to promote women's rights and gender equality. They will also meet with women politicians serving in city councils, state legislatures, and the U.S. Congress. 

Eight (8) political party leaders from Indonesia will be visiting Detroit, participating in the International Visitor Leadership sponsored program Strengthening Democracy Through Political Party Engagement and Grassroots Activism. This is a 3 day exchange program designed to offer a view of American democracy by allowing U.S. experts to share examples of grassroots political activism and introduce participants to transparency and reporting rules for fundraising for U.S. elections. The objective of this program is to learn about U.S. political party organizations and structures at the state, local, and federal levels. They also will be working to develop partnerships and cooperative relationships between Indonesian political parties and U.S. counterparts, as well as with democratic governance-focused NGOs and USG officials.

The Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative (YTILI) is the U.S. Department of State's flagship program for emerging entrepreneurs from Europe. This year, Global Ties Detroit welcomes 7 fellows from Bosnia & Herzegovina, Finland, Hungary, Montenegro, Poland and Slovenia. This two-way exchange program is designed to strengthen transatlantic relationships, develop sustainable partnerships between U.S. and European entrepreneurs and innovators, promote regional integration and cooperation in Europe, and encourage European businesses, governments and civil society to develop their innovation ecosystems. The Detroit program includes a four-week fellowship with a local business or organization, home hospitality dinners, site visits to local businesses and organizations, and cultural outings.

Global Ties Detroit is a project that focuses on building trust between the media, government, and citizens. This project demonstrates the seriousness of disinformation campaigns to domestic publics and highlights fact-checking, investigative journalism, and specialized polling to counter misleading information. The program will also be examining the rights and responsibilities of a free press in democracy and the principles and laws governing the press in the United States. In May 2023, we will be welcoming six (6) government officials and community leaders assessing ways in which collaboration across government, public, and private sectors works to address the disinformation threat. During their stay they will be meeting with USG officials at the Department of State, including the Global Engagement Center, DHS, NSC, and other agencies involved in combating disinformation and conflict resolution. They also will be participating in an interactive workshop on the latest theories and practices in conflict transformation and leadership and community mobilization.

The Uzbek Bloggers is an International Visitors Leadership program administered by the Meridian International Center. This program focuses on the themes of Communications and Information. The objective of this program is to introduce Uzbekistani bloggers to a range of U.S. media entities to provide opportunities to view alternative styles, as well as provide introductions for continued cooperation on knowledge and content sharing. We will be welcoming four (4) professionals that will be examining how social media and social networking, and blogging, develop new avenues for promoting positive civic engagement and disseminating verified and true information. They will also be exploring the economics of blogging, examining how youth interact with social media platforms, learn about disinformation, and meet with bloggers of all stripes. 

Five (5) Canadian senior and mid-level law enforcement officials will be visiting Detroit, participating in the U.S. Department of State sponsored, Meridian International administered program, Countering Violent Crime through Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. This program is designed to share successful operational and strategic level methods to counter violent crime. These law enforcement officials will examine cross border cooperation and information sharing on transnational crime through case studies that include efforts combating gun and gang related violence. This program includes site visits to local, state, and federal law and customs enforcement offices, meeting with law officials, as well as non-profit organizations.

The Russian Business Leaders (RBL) professional exchange program is a U.S. Embassy sponsored program designed to connect Russian and American entrepreneurs. This program is strengthening professional ties between Russian and American business communities and professionals, to exchange best business practices, and to expand professional networks. Global Ties Detroit will be hosting three (3) English-speaking business professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovative leaders. These fellows will be participating in a fellowship program where they shadow and learn from businesses and organizations for three (3) weeks.

MichPakVersity seeks to strengthen the research culture and capacity of institutions in Pakistan and to enhance the academic, research, and knowledge exchange environment for faculty in Pakistani universities with Universities in Michigan. The program will also promote understanding of American history and culture through exposure to the success of U.S. institutes of higher education in addressing the needs of minority students. The program began as a virtual program in 2022 with over 50 Pakistani professors and administrators meeting with professors and administrators from universities such as Wayne State University, Michigan State University, Oakland University, and the University of Michigan. In April 2023, fourteen (14) Pakistani administrators and faculty members are invited to take part in an 8-day in-person exchange in Southeast Michigan to meet with their American counterparts, participate in workshops and other programming, and work on joint research proposals. Pakistani and Michigan-based alumni of the program will be encouraged to take advantage of ongoing virtual networking events and to continue to develop joint research proposals after the program concludes.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be hosting (IVLP) sponsored, Cultural Vistas administered program Cooperative Efforts in Combating Transnational Crime focusing on promoting global cooperation and fighting transnational crime. This program helps provide these government officials and entrepreneurs with a greater understanding of the American criminal justice system and the legal framework for combating a range of transnational crimes. These fellows will be meeting with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies as well as policy makers to explore international efforts to combat cross-border criminal activity and assist victims of transnational crimes. 

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, six (6) women law officials from India will visit Detroit to engage with senior U.S. female law enforcement counterparts to discuss the leadership challenges for women in law enforcement, exchange practices, and develop strategies to address current and emerging criminal issues. These women will be exploring ways to help develop a cohort of mid- to-senior-level women leaders in Indian law enforcement, who are equipped with the leadership, management tools, and network to sustain their success. They will have opportunities to meet with women working in law enforcement, attend meetings to discuss strategies to attract more women in law enforcement, and meet with representatives to share and learn ways to reduce the current and emerging criminal issues that are affecting women and children.

Global Ties Detroit will be partnering with Meridian International Center to welcome the Business Entrepreneurship and Trade delegation from Peru. This project examines the role of small businesses to drive sustained economic growth and prosperity and hone skills to encourage entrepreneurship. This program will include participants exploring business models that support small business growth and economic development that will help benefit their local communities. They will also learn how to best trademark their product and receive government start-up assistance. This program will allow delegates to participate in discussions as well as site visits that highlight the social, economic, legal, and political factors that encourage the development of private enterprise, including innovation, managerial skills, government incentives, the removal of barriers to growth, access to credit and venture capital, business incubators, and public-private partnerships.

Global Ties Detroit is partnering with Freedom IT Schools in Belarus to host the Virtual Exchange Program (VEP) that is administered by World Learning and funded by USAID. This youth leadership program is designed to help high school students studying IT in Belarus develop soft skills, practice project management, learn about career development opportunities, and gain emotional intelligence skills. This program includes seven (7) sessions with twenty (20) students. A total of 140 participants will be involved in this program and eager to learn and connect with Americans. The virtual multisession program will be held for a period of three (3) weeks.

The Innovative and Effective Ways for Teaching program is a International Visitors Leadership Program sponsored, Cultural Vistas administered program. Global Ties Detroit is thrilled to be hosting educators from Tunisia, identifying new instructional trends and ways to train English language teachers and to teach English as a second language. This program allows these educators to exchange views and methods for developing students skills in leadership, critical thinking, as well as problem solving. During this program they will also have the chance to interact with English language teachers and students in K-12 classrooms. The objective of this program is to provide these educators with innovative and pedagogical methods that are used in American educational systems.

Open World is a Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL) sponsored, FHI 360 administered program. Global Ties Detroit is excited to welcome six (6) community leaders and advocates from Latvia. These participants will be visiting from March 10th-18th, focusing on the themes of Inclusivity and Tolerance. These themes include how people can show diversity through LGBTQ+ issues, religion, culture, ability etc. This programming will incorporate group meetings, seminars and round table discussions. To enhance their knowledge of life and culture in the United States these fellows will be staying with homestay hosts in metro-Detroit, as well as participating in different social and cultural activities. 

Global Ties Detroit is hosting IVLP administered program Advancing Minority Rights, A Project for Europe. Eleven (11) English-speaking professionals made up of journalist, project managers and foundation directors will be participating in this program examining U.S. and international initiatives to promote and protect the human rights of minority communities. They will also be reviewing how organizations monitor and advocate for human and civil rights policy at local, state, national, and international levels. The goal of this program is to raise awareness and acceptance of human and civil rights for ethnic, cultural, gender, racial, and religious minority communities.

The Custom Reform and Modernization program is an International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), administered by MCID that supports the economic development professionals and international trade professionals in augmenting Iraqi customs with international customs. This program focuses on economic security and trade, customs enforcement, economics and industry, business, and international trade and investment. These fellows will examine practices in international relations and better create a welcoming business environment. This program will include site visits at ports of entry and foreign-trade zones, and highlight the role of private companies in driving economic growth and innovation.

Global Ties Detroit is excited to work with The International Visitor Leadership Program on hosting The Future of Indian Democracy Program. This program will be focusing on exploring concepts of democracy, government, and citizenship. We will be hosting a group of four (4) elected leaders and political party officials. These leaders and officials will observe programs promoting civic awareness and youth empowerment including schools, civic groups, and inter-faith settings. They also will be identifying skills to foster leadership, which includes policy formulation and decision-making strategies, as well as the use of social media in political and advocacy campaigns.  

Promoting Social Change Through the Arts, A Project for Belarus is a program through The International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP). This project’s goal is to promote the freedom of artistic expression, examining the link between cultural engagement and community well-being by focusing on the arts as a vehicle for promoting social change. Three (3) visitors from Belarus will participate in this program, examining the role of art education while encouraging young people to be responsible and engaged members of society. These participants will visit art centers, local governmental and non-governmental organizations supporting arts as well as community-supported arts programs to examine the various ways in which the arts can convey identity, creativity, belief systems and tolerance inclusion within American society.

Seven (7) educators and community leaders from Czech Republic, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Montenegro, Poland and Tajikistan, participating in the 21st Century Changemakers exchange through the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) will be engaging in five days of site visits, meetings and Thanksgiving home hospitality in metro Detroit . The exchange participants will be examining model programs and social campaigns that promote youth civic engagement and leadership. The international educators will visit educational institutions, local grassroots organizations, youth clubs, sports programs, arts programs, interfaith initiatives and more.

ALEX is a program of the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and fosters mutual understanding, respect, and civic engagement for the 2020-21 FLEX and YES finalists who were not able to come to the United States for an in-person academic year program due to the Covid-19 pandemic.  The program consists of a one-week civic education workshop (DC Study Tour) in Washington, DC  and a one-week Leadership Program in a U.S. host community focused on themes including  service learning, volunteerism, equity and inclusion, entrepreneurship, and environmentalism.  

As part of the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), six (6) medical healthcare professionals from India are visiting Detroit and other communities throughout Michigan. During their exchange,  the participants are observing how U.S. health systems are responding to COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. These professionals will review and discuss ways to establish cross-sectoral communication and strengthen collaboration between governments and local health officials to prevent, detect and respond to disease outbreaks.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State and administered by CRDF Global, the Middle East North Africa Professional Fellows Program (MENA PFP) is an exchange program designed to promote mutual understanding, and enhance leadership and professional skills between the countries of Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and the United States. For the month of October, participants will work in non-profit organizations, businesses, and government offices across the United States to develop their professional experience within social entrepreneurship, business administration, economic development, and emerging technologies among other topics.

For the 2022 Middle East North Africa Professional Fellows Program, Professional Fellows will have the opportunity to kick off their program here in Detroit, Michigan and travel around the country to stay with an American family for a one-week homestay. Four (4) fellows in Detroit will be placed at TechTown, Bamboo Royal Oak, and The Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation for the duration of their program.

As part of the Europe-Eurasia Professional Fellows Program sponsored by the US Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by American Councils, two (2) professional fellows, one from Belarus and one from Ukraine, will be staying in Detroit for the month of October. This program allows participants from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, Turkey, and Ukraine to gain practical experience in, and exposure to, US government, entrepreneurship, higher education, and other topics. While staying with homestay families, the fellows will work with the Department of History and Gender Studies at the University of Michigan - Dearborn, and the Wayne State University Center for Peace and Conflict Studies. 

PFP participants are placed in intensive month-long fellowships in non-profit organizations, private sector businesses, and government offices across the United States. American participants who have hosted PFP fellows later travel overseas as part of the exchange programs.

On behalf of the U.S. Embassy in London and the U.S. Department of State, four (4) policy advisors and directors from the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom will be meeting with foreign affairs resources in Detroit to explore the themes of border security and economic activity, and cross-border cooperation on trade and environment.

The goals of the exchange program include: familiarizing the participants with Biden Administration priorities relating to the United Kingdom and Ireland; exploring the roles of Congress and civil society in U.S. foreign policy formation; studying the U.S.-Canada border as an example of balancing border security with the free flow of people and trade; and discussing cross-border collaboration at the local level on issues such as economic activity and environmental protection.

This September, Detroit was designated as the opening city for the Fall 2022 Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Professional Fellows Program (YSEALI PFP). An exchange program to develop young emerging leaders who are invested in civic engagement, economic empowerment, sustainability, and the environment from across Southeast Asia. For one month, young leaders, 25–35 years old, from around Southeast Asia will work directly with their American counterparts in work placements across the country in public and private sector organizations. Global Ties Detroit hosted the fellows for their program orientation and our two fellows, Felix from Singapore and Dennis from the Philippines, are currently working at Velocity Incubator in Sterling Heights and International Strategic Management Inc. in Troy.

Sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires, ten (10) labor union leaders from Argentina will visit Detroit to connect with labor union resources found in federal, state, and local government, academia, unions, community organizations, and other relevant organizations. In their meetings, participants will gain an understanding of labor issues in the U.S. through the lens of women’s empowerment. They will also have opportunities to engage with a diverse array of Americans in cultural events and home hospitality visits. Before arriving in Detroit the delegation will have orientation and labor meetings in Washington, D.C., then they will meet with more labor union connections in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Ten (10) Belgian visitors from the Ras El Hanout Theatre Initiative, including the founder of the program, actors, and stage and project managers, will visit Detroit to participate in think tanks to discuss the reallocation of police funding, strengthening law enforcement-civilian relationships, and how U.S. Islamic scholars look at Islam and being Muslim in the West. 

The Ras El Hanout NGO that runs the theatre initiative, is located in the heart of the Molenbeek suburb of Brussels, and has been quite active in this space for over ten years. The Ras El Hanout Theatre Initiative focuses on theater as a catalyst for positive societal change; and how it can prevent and combat racism and discrimination while empowering at-risk communities. The organization wishes to leverage its experience to further professionalize its approach, not only in collaboration with Belgian academic institutions but by adopting best practices found abroad in this area.

Through a program led by the Institute of International Education and sponsored by the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP), five (5) journalists and media professionals from Belarus will meet with their journalist counterparts in Detroit to discuss media, public accountability, online privacy, surveillance, and the protection of civil liberties.

The program will have participants examine the rights and responsibilities of a free press in a democracy and the principles and laws governing the press in the United States. Participants will recognize how investigative journalists in the U.S. raise awareness of social concerns and report on abusive actions of government, politicians, criminals or corporations. Ultimately, they will understand the importance of investigative journalism, fact-checking, myth-busting, and specialized polling in countering misleading information and demonstrating the seriousness of disinformation campaigns to domestic publics.

This in-person project for Lebanon will examine private sector and local, state, and federal government strategies for encouraging trade and stimulating economic growth.  Participants will meet with representatives of a range of start-up and established businesses, banks, chambers of commerce, community groups, NGOs, government agencies, think tanks, and universities to discuss trade, investments, incentives, taxation, and fiscal policy.  participants will also take a comprehensive look at ongoing efforts to reinvigorate the U.S. economy and to enhance the overall stability and strength of the international economic system.

Nine (9) Saudi Arabian education and labor ministry officials, educators, and non-governmental organization representatives will meet with their professional counterparts in Metro Detroit to discuss public-private partnerships, economic empowerment, community service initiatives and innovation in entrepreneurship. While in the United States, the participants will learn the role of technical education, with a heavy emphasis on supporting and integrating women and young people into the workforce.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 development program, Workforce Development for Women and Youth is intended to emphasize a high skill labor force and the growth of self-made entrepreneurs. The project strives to support women and youth by expanding their networks and capabilities and to strengthen Saudi public and private entities to better address emerging economic challenges. The project focuses on deepening U.S-Saudi commercial ties and to promote robust, non-petroleum economic growth in Saudi Arabia

Twenty-three (23) participants from around the world will engage in the Science and Technology Entrepreneurship program to meet  with their professional counterparts in Detroit to discuss diversity and community within entrepreneurial ecosystems. Focusing specifically on digital literacy and justice, venture capital, and entrepreneurial resilience. 

Detroit, Michigan is an emerging startup friendly, tech-hub of the Midwest. With its heavy focus on innovation in manufacturing and software technology, Detroit will provide participants with a greater insight into the roles of governmental and non-governmental organizations in fostering entrepreneurship and innovation. Local resources will demonstrate how technological innovations are adopted in a wide variety of industries, how to support and recognize startups, and discuss the role of higher education in advancing technologies and empowering young people in tech related fields.

Sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and implemented by Meridian International Center, PAYLP brings together over 150 anglophone and francophone high school students and adult mentors from across Africa for training centered around practical leadership and technical skills. From July 22nd to August 19th, Global Ties Detroit  will be working together virtually with 20 francophone high school students and adult mentors from the Central African Republic, Chad, Guinea, and Togo. Along the way, they’ll connect with fellow American youths, hear from Detroit’s local leaders, and take part in cross cultural exchange with American host families. 

PAYLP is part of a variety of Department of State programs, both virtual and in-person, that bring the world to Detroit. Providing Americans with invaluable experiences and insights from the diverse regions of Africa all the while promoting mutual understanding between the people of the U.S. and African nations. PAYLP alumni have gone on to become leaders in their local communities and cite their experience with the program as being a part of their drive to make a difference.

Eleven (11) Saudi university students, recent graduates, and U.S Cultural Ambassadors participating in SYLEP will engage in three weeks of international exchange with the goal of growing and learning together through hands-on experience. While participating in SYLEP, participants will build leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional skills, civic responsibility, and appreciation for cultural diversity. Participants will also practice community engagement through themes such as entrepreneurship, innovation, science and technology, community health, job readiness, youth engagement, and other issue areas. 

The overarching goals of the program are to promote mutual understandings between the people of the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to prepare young leaders to become responsible citizens and contributing members of their communities, and to develop leadership skills among Saudi and U.S youth within the emerging COVID era.

Each year, the U.S. Department of State's Edward R. Murrow Program for Journalists brings more than 100 emerging international journalists from around the world to explore journalistic practices in the United States while gaining insights into American social, economic, and political structures. The Murrow program is an innovative public-private partnership between the Department of State, the Poynter Institute for Media Studies, and several leading U.S. schools of journalism. 

While in Detroit, eleven (11) international journalists, editors, radio hosts, and CEOs from North Africa will meet with their professional counterparts to examine high-quality, transparently-financed infrastructure project case studies, learn about the Freedom of Information Act, and explore the role of journalists in a democracy. Meetings and site visits to small and medium-sized newsrooms will highlight the editorial process, effective use of social media, and strategies for soliciting advertising.

Seventeen (17) members of international NGOs will explore Detroit-based non-profit management strategies, relationships, and future aspirations that have been vital to rebuilding the city. This program will demonstrate to participants how non-profits have been a vehicle for economic development and how similar methods can be deployed in their home countries. Local resources will provide insight on how non-profit organizations have been a key aspect to Detroit’s redevelopment and recovery throughout the last decade by offering services and charitable contributions, while anchoring communities during times of need. The program will also focus on NGOs involved in Muslim-American community and ethnic diversity and how these organizations improve the lives of their community and beyond.

Sixteen (16) recent Patchwork Foundation alumni from the United Kingdom will meet with Detroit-based thought leaders on youth empowerment, particularly on the topics of diversifying economic and civic opportunities, alongside encouraging political engagement.  Discussions will focus on new and innovative approaches to ensuring young persons from disadvantaged backgrounds are empowered to be active members of society. This project hopes to strengthen and reinforce cultural ties between the U.S and U.K, provide outreach to young leaders, and to promote credible voices by working with Mission Colleagues to identify key emerging leaders.

Eleven (11) Saudi university students, recent graduates, and U.S Cultural Ambassadors participating in SYLEP will engage in three weeks of international exchange with the goal of growing and learning together through hands-on experience. While participating in SYLEP, participants will build leadership, entrepreneurship, and professional skills, civic responsibility, and appreciation for cultural diversity. Participants will also practice community engagement through themes such as entrepreneurship, innovation, science and technology, community health, job readiness, youth engagement, and other issue areas. 

The overarching goals of the program are to promote mutual understandings between the people of the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to prepare young leaders to become responsible citizens and contributing members of their communities, and to develop leadership skills among Saudi and U.S youth within the emerging COVID era. 

While in Michigan, nine (9) public health officials, nonprofit leaders and government officials will visit Detroit and Kalamazoo to interact with staff of NGOs, faith-based organizations, legal service providers, and government agencies to explore how these institutions function and how they collaborate to protect women and children, educate men and boys about their responsibilities, and educate victims about their rights. This program explores strategies to prevent and confront domestic abuse and violence in the United States, efforts to sensitize government and law enforcement officials to the needs of the abused, and strategies to support and protect survivors of abuse. The project examines civil society efforts to support victims  as well as legal efforts to prosecute perpetrators. Participants will examine what U.S. organizations are doing abroad to support programs that address the specific gender-based violence issues in their home countries.

A group of delegates from nations across Europe will connect with local leaders to learn about the U.S. security and defense-making process, as well as examine specific security issues such as regional conflicts, weapons proliferation, energy security, homeland security, international terrorism, and the use of preventative diplomacy to address these challenges. The group will also share information on the European security architecture, including the revolving roles of NATO, the EU, the UN, and other international organizations in dealing with global crises. This program will explore the benefits of U.S.-European cooperation on security policy worldwide. 

A group of ten (10) government officials from Singapore are coming to Detroit to connect with their counterparts, explore best practices from U.S. civil society for the inclusion of minority religious and ethnic groups, and build connections between U.S. civil society organizations and the younger generation of Singapore's MMO to better understand their role as prominent interlocutors in the formation of Singapore domestic policy. As most participants haven’t been to the United States, this will provide a positive first experience with and better understanding of the United States, the state of Michigan, and city of Detroit. 

Global Ties Detroit is thrilled to present another Multi-Regional exchange with participants from Armenia, Egypt, Greece, Malaysia, and many others. This exchange will focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and will be composed of participants from across the world, who are all working to make the world a more inclusive and accepting place. While a part of the program participants will be able to learn about modern civil rights groups in the United States, discuss ideas like privilege, and define and reflect on the value of diversity and multiculturalism globally. This exchange will also provide insight into the various communities that the United States has, allowing participants to draw parallels to their own communities. 

Global Ties Detroit is excited to host a virtual exchange program for participants with backgrounds in education, libraries, and children from the Near East and North Africa! Through this virtual exchange program, participants will be able to learn about the roles of community centers, libraries, and youth programs in the United States and the importance of community-based partnerships for promoting volunteering. By engaging in these discussions and activities, participants will be able to help inspire youth in a multitude of ways, starting with community programs and library services & technologies, bridging the digital divide that remains in certain populations. 

Global Ties Detroit is thrilled once again to partner with the American Councils for International Education to host Russian Business Leaders (RBL)! This U.S. Department of State initiative is a virtual professional development exchange program for emerging business professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators, from Russia who are committed to driving economic development through leadership and sound business practices. This program also provides metro Detroit business leaders the opportunity to develop their international networks and expand their businesses globally.  

The YSEALI PFP is a fully-funded exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. A group of five (5) emerging leaders from Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, and Malaysia will virtually come to Detroit and be placed in fellowships at organizations across Southeast Michigan. The program is designed to promote mutual understanding, enhance Fellows’ leadership and professional skills, and build lasting and sustainable partnerships between emerging leaders in Southeast Asia and the United States. 

Global Ties Detroit is honored to present a virtual exchange opportunity arranged by the Institute of International Education for participants from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Eritrea, the Republic of Korea, and many more! This program will provide participants from all around the world the ability to examine the role that individuals, organizations, and governments have in humanitarian emergencies, conflicts, political issues, and peacemaking efforts. Participants will also have the opportunity to engage in fruitful discussion after examining case studies and various communities. Additionally, participants will explore and discuss the importance of the community in conflict resolution and the promotion of accountability and transparency to obtain a peaceful environment.

A delegation of civic leaders from the Western Hemisphere will meet virtually with their Detroit counterparts to discuss strategies to increase community participation in the political process; explore the roles of education, religion and culture in a pluralistic society, and examine ways to engage youth, especially minorities and underserved youth, in political affairs and civic society. 

Detroit-based journalists and media organizations will meet with their counterparts from India to share their expertise, build relationships, and promote citizen diplomacy with the following objectives: 

- Highlight the importance of investigative journalism and fact-checking in countering misleading information;

- Explore the contradictory role of social media and new technologies in fostering and/or hindering national, regional, local, and individual security;

- Discuss innovative approaches to build trust between the media, law enforcement, and citizens. 

Participants from South and Central Asia will meet with professionals from Detroit to learn about managing digital assets, Fintech, and Blockchain, especially for underrepresented and minority communities. The project sessions will also explore the economic opportunities and challenges of cryptocurrencies, virtual assets, online banking, and digital currencies.  

Global Ties Detroit is proud to present a virtual programming event on behalf of the IVLP for several Pakistani participants! This virtual exchange will provide participants with the insight and understanding of various law enforcement agencies in the United States, border security technology, coordination between different agencies, and much more. Throughout the duration of the exchange, participants will engage in informative and beneficial experiences that will provide them with the knowledge to implement similar practices in their communities at home in order to combat human trafficking, drug trafficking, and other organized crime. 

The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) will temporarily pause all ECA-funded programs that involve travel to and from countries with heightened U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Alert Level 2 (Practice Enhanced Precautions) and Warning Level 3 (Avoid Nonessential Travel) or heightened State Department COVID-19 related Travel Advisory Levels 3 (Reconsider Travel) and 4 (Do Not Travel).

• ECA-funded programs will be paused for CDC Alert Level 2 (Practice Enhanced Precautions) and Warning Level 3 (Avoid Nonessential Travel) countries due to COVID-19.  Details of the travel notices issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for all locations are available at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices.
• ECA will pause ECA-funded programs in countries with COVID-19 related State Department Travel Advisory Levels 3 (Reconsider Travel) and 4 (Do Not Travel).  Details on travel advisories for all locations are available at state.gov.
• In addition, ECA will also temporarily postpone or cancel large ECA-sponsored gatherings worldwide, if these gatherings include people who have traveled internationally in the past 14 days.
• ECA constantly reviews safety and operational constraints on its programs, and additional postponements or cancellations are possible on this basis.
• ECA views the health, safety, and well-being of program participants as its highest priority.  In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, ECA will pause programs for 60 days and review this decision every 30 days thereafter.
• ECA will continue to directly communicate information about the management and status of current and future programs and gatherings to relevant participants and stakeholders.
• ECA has already evacuated or offered voluntary departure for U.S. citizen exchange participants from countries or regions where there are elevated Centers for Disease Control Warning Levels or State Department Travel Advisories (Azerbaijan, China, Italy, Mongolia, Republic of Korea).

For further information about ECA programs, please contact ECA-Press@state.gov.  For questions about State Department Travel Advisories, please contact CAPressRequests@state.gov.  For additional information on COVID-19, please visit the CDC’s dedicated website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Please join us and Gulf Coast Diplomacy on Tuesday, September 28th, from 1-2PM Eastern to explore The Value of Breast Health for Sustainable Cities, a discussion to be led by Nicole Joseph-Chin, a 2011 and 2021 U.S. Department of State International Visitor Leadership Program participant and the founder of social enterprise Ms. Brafit. 

Joseph-Chin’s work has become synonymous with servant-leadership, women and girl’s empowerment, breast esteem advocacy, and education development. She uses a social impact model to empower women diagnosed with breast cancer, women in leadership, medical professionals, academic organizations, and adolescent girls during their body development.

As a multiple award winner, Joseph-Chin is a Vital Voices VV100 Woman of the Vital Voices Global Partnership, a recipient of a Government of India Fellowship, and a 2018 awardee of the Association of Female Executives of Trinidad & Tobago (AFETT) Social Entrepreneur of the year. In 2017 she was part of a coalition of civil society organizations that worked to change the legislation to ending child marriage in Trinidad and Tobago.

As a social impact strategist, Joseph-Chin dedicates her efforts to coaching entrepreneurs and start-ups on how to include effective and sustainable social impact into their business models that can lead to global impact and change agency. This became an active part of a MOOCS program she led for the U.S. Embassy in Port of Spain in 2014.

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwtdumvpzMsH90kX6MLrvMw7lPsCVYgFufs 

International leaders meet to examine the local, state, and federal park and protected area management systems; trends in biodiversity conservation and wildlife management; and sustainable tourism standards and practices. They will illustrate the range of services, infrastructure, concessions, and tourist information in parks and at natural attractions and discuss how communities provide input for planning for tourism development. They will also explore collaboration among field experts and local communities on the roles of different levels of government and the private sector in biodiversity preservation, parks and protected areas management, and tourism facility development; and examine how cities, states, and the federal government protect and conserve biodiversity while roads, railways, office and apartment buildings, and other housing are planned and being built.

Pan-African Youth Leadership Program (PAYLP) brings together young leaders' civic engagement, leadership, and social entrepreneurship skills while fostering cross-cultural bonds with American citizens. Global Ties Detroit will lead weekly cultural programming for 15 young leaders from Central Africa Republic, Burundi, Guinea, and Niger, and four adult educators to strengthen the youth's leadership skills to help them solve issues in their communities.

Experts will examine and share best practices with U.S. institutions that have expertise in fundraising through creating museum memberships and affinity groups, working with trustees, cultivating new audiences; and other methods. They will explore funding models for revenue generation utilized by their U.S. counterparts; discover new ways that U.S. historic and cultural institutions generate income to sustain themselves in the era of COVID-19 and beyond; and examine museum operations including security, internal climate controls for document and artifact preservation, and health and safety measures for on-site staff during COVID-19.

Global Leaders will meet to discuss U.S. policy and regulatory efforts to promote an open and reliable digital commerce space for both businesses and consumers, gain insight into the U.S. commercial trends and the impacts of social shopping and community-led brands, examine strategies to develop profitable digital businesses, from start-up to branding, marketing, shipping, and networking, and review U.S. support programs for women in digital business and explore mentoring opportunities. They will also assess the efficacy of funding mechanisms and credit opportunities for women promoting digital start-ups; and discuss the role of digital assets in global payments.

Delegates from countries all over the world including Australia, Eswatini, India, Nigeria, Spain, and Zimbabwe are virtually visiting Detroit to connect with local tech entrepreneurs and innovators. The goal of the project is to dicuss strategies for empowering young people, women, and minorities in tech fields; and share experiences about addressing addressing technological and social challenges in non-traditional sectors or less economically vibrant regions.

Delegates from Canada will meet with Detroiters to examine the historical and legal framework for the U.S. civil rights movement; explore how the private sector, academic institutions, and government bodies can foster democratic equality and multiculturalism; and discuss media engagement as an effective means of increasing public awareness and support for civil rights.

A delegation of twenty (20) women entrepreneurs from across Africa will virtually meet with their counterparts in Detroit to discuss strategies for job creation, explore social, economic, and political factors that influence and encourage the development of private enterprise in the United States, and examine business models, support mechanisms, and innovations that bolster businesses such as micro-lending and mentoring programs.

Investigative journalists from Cambodia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Kazakhstan, Laos, Pakistan, and others will meet with counterparts in Detroit to examine the rights and responsibilities of a free press in a democracy, understand the role that investigative journalists play in U.S. society as they raise awareness of issues of social concern and report on illegal, irregular, or abusive actions on behalf of government, politicians, criminals or corporations, and discuss best practices in ensuring that reports are fact checked.

In collaboration with Gulf Coast Diplomacy, Jamal Benhamou will discuss the current issues the Amazigh people of North Africa are facing from a political perspective.Jamal was born in Morocco and came to the U.S. a little over 11 years ago to pursue higher education, obtained a BA in international relations from the University of West Florida, and is currently pursuing graduate education in linguistics at Florida State University. He provides language interpretation as a contractor for the immigration court of the U.S. Department of Justice and became a U.S. citizen in 2015.Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUodeGoqDIqHNSf9R9tlpC4UQkFQ0ehLJKk 

Global Ties Detroit is implementing a project for eighteen (18) professionals to meet with their Detroit counterparts and discuss U.S. foreign policy in the international economic system, including stimulating growth and employment. This exchange program is designed to examine international economic cooperation in the context of the integration of emerging markets into the world economy. The professionals will explore the variety of funding mechanisms available for national and local economic development with a focus on the nexus of business opportunities and development priorities.

A discussion on how the COVID-19 pandemic will shape the global labor market. 

Recording: https://youtu.be/WK5I9JScKuM

Fifteen (15) Hondurian professionals will meet with their Detroit counterparts for a virtual project to examine the role of civic education in a participative democracy. They will discuss strategies to engage young and first-time voters and explore how political leaders, civil society, and NGOs can promote a peaceful electoral process and mitigate electoral violence and the rhetoric that causes it.

From the United States, to Colombia, to Costa Rica - a discussion on global environmental protection efforts, climate change, and how local campaigns are successfully preserving the planet. 

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIkdeyuqzIvGNOCzNwL4zuDyas3dABO36Z9

Global Ties Detroit is implementing a virtual project for twenty-seven (27) professionals to review U.S. government strategies to combat international trafficking in persons. They will examine the roles that government, law enforcement, the courts, and local organizations play in detecting, preventing, and prosecuting crimes. This program will also explore initiatives to recognize, protect, and assist victims of abuse and trafficking, including victim recovery and reintegration programs.

Multiple professionals from around the globe will partake in a virtual exchange to promote economic ties between the United States and other countries. This program will provide networking opportunities to facilitate collaboration and cross-fertilization, while allowing alumni to promote their own businesses.

Global Ties Detroit is facilitating a virtual exchange with a group of seven (7) professionals to examine the underlying principles of the U.S. judicial and legal systems and their basis in the Constitution and the rule of law. Individuals will study the interaction of the legal system between law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and courts. This project will deepen the understanding of the federal and state judicial systems for both criminal and civil, while also exploring measures to protect victims.

Medical professionals from African countries will virtually visit Detroit to explore federal public health and infectious disease policy and programs. They will analyze the role of research and best practices to treat infectious diseases, and examine community-based clinics and outreach health centers. The professionals will also review the laws related to distributing vaccines and medicines and view the measures in place to control infectious diseases in hospitals.

Global Ties Detroit is facilitating a virtual exchange with a group of six (6) professionals to learn about management and marketing strategies to assess and develop innovations. Professionals will meet with investors and start-ups involved in recognizing, promoting, and developing innovative solutions to labor and human rights challenges. This project is designed to examine the best practices and challenges in developing technology for the social good and also understand how blockchain can be used to protect the rights of low-wage workers.

The current political situation in the Czech Republic, a small country in the very heart of Europe, historically considered the crossroads between the West and the East, is the reflection of the latest developments in the entire European Union, currently facing a serious crisis, caused by Brexit, a refugee crisis and the rise of populist tendencies. The lecture will address all these issues, with the further focus on the Czech Republic and other countries of Central Europe.

Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mZwN08SB76M  

Global Ties Detroit is implementing a project for MENA region professionals to meet with their Detroit counterparts and discuss leadership and communication skills used to manage political and social challenges. This virtual program will explore advocacy strategies that facilitate social empowerment and justice, and examine how public-private partnerships foster political and civic engagement within communities.

On Tuesday, March 16, 2021, from 1 - 2PM Eastern, you are invited to meet John Adams who will speak on “Integrating U.S. Government Representation Overseas: the U.S. Embassy Country Team.”

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vduyurjsrGdKGQDj-O0gHxsQu6nFZ81YS 

A team of thirteen (13) professionals will meet with their counterparts in Detroit to discuss the role of the United States in international trade agreements and its influence on the U.S. economy. This project is designed to examine current initiatives in international trade and export promotion and introduce innovative strategies for regional economic development and competitiveness in the global marketplace.

A discussion on effectively communicating across borders, cultures, and languages with Barbara Boldt - Principal, Communication Skills & Pitch Coach at Boldt Global, LLC, and Antoine Dubeauclard, President of Media Genesis and Global Ties Detroit Board Second Vice Chair. 

Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBqKlrmx1ag&feature=youtu.be 

On Thursday, February 11, 2021, from 1-2PM Eastern, you are invited to meet Fred Ketchem who will speak on “Managing Change in the International Realm.” Fred successfully completed a rewarding career with the U.S. Department of State.  He retired as a Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and Assistant Director of the Diplomatic Security Service.  As a senior executive of the Diplomatic Security Service, Fred managed overall operations and set strategic goals to ensure the safety and security of U.S. diplomatic facilities worldwide.

During his long career, Fred also served as the Counselor for Regional Security to the U.S. Mission in Afghanistan, the first DSS Special Agent-in-Charge for U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, the Senior Deputy Regional Security Officer to the U.S. Mission in Iraq, the Deputy Regional Director of Near Eastern Affairs and South Central Asia, the Senior Regional Security Officer to the U.S. Mission in Brazil and over 100 additional international postings.

He is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service and the recipient of numerous Department of State awards – including the Distinguished Honor Award, the Secretary’s Career Achievement Award, the State Department’s Award for Heroism and was the 2008 Diplomatic Security Employee of the Year. He was profiled in the book “The Secretary”, the National Geographic special “Inside the State Department” and the Discovery Channel’s “Secrets of Diplomatic Security.” Fred served honorably in the U.S. Navy.

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMpf-CrrTgoGNOk2v2EnkNy5ZEvsyvYmvFT

Global Ties Detroit is implementing a project for Sri Lankan and Maldivian government officials to meet with their Detroit counterparts to explore the role of citizens, traditional and new media, academia, and civil society in fostering transparency and accountability in government. This virtual program will highlight the mechanisms and underlying principles of ethical systems for accountability that enable citizens to foster good governance.

Michigan-based companies and professionals will showcase their innovative efforts in energy and technology with Ministry of Energy officials in Malta. This project will support long-term investments in energy solutions and promote mutually beneficial trade and technology exchanges. 

In partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Paris and World Learning, Global Ties Detroit is implementing a virtual, peer-to-peer roundtable discussion on the topic of countering violent extremism. Educators, school social workers, and school security specialists in French schools will engage with American counterparts to talk about responding to student concerns about safety, combating harassment of students or other hate crimes against students, and watching for/ responding to signs of violence in schools. 

Looking to satisfy your wanderlust again? Our first Virtual Talk Series session of the year with Gulf Coast Diplomacy has you covered: The Future of Travel!On Tuesday, January 19, 3 PM Eastern, Sanya Weston of Your Premier Travel Service and Young People Travel Global Edge will join Faris Alami of International Strategic Management, Inc. to discuss the importance of opening travel opportunities to youth and what international travelers can expect travel to look like in 2021 and beyond. Watch Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RO8BwlBYnXk

Quechua is an indigenous language family spoken by the Quechua peoples primarily living in the South American Andes. The Quechua Project champions the inter-generational survival of the Quechua language within the Bolivian diaspora community of the D.C. metro area. The organization envisions a future where younger generations have the spaces and encouragement to use Quechua. Language is a powerful factor in identity and people's survival and The Quechua Project hopes to reverse a centuries-long pattern of indigenous language loss and the international Native erasure across the Americas. 
In collaboration with Gulf Coast Diplomacy, The Quechua Project founders will further discuss the organization's mission and the need for the project. 

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0vfu6vrTMsGt2_IFNd-FI33JVL_oPdgs5M 

Ukrainian delegates will meet virtually with their professional counterparts in Detroit for a project centered around Foreign Investment Screening. Discussion between the Ukrainian delegates and Michigan-based companies will revolve around attracting foreign investment and ensuring that incoming foreign investments and transactions comply with financial regulations. 

A Ukrainian delegation, selected by U.S. Embassy Kyiv, will connect virtually with smart city innovators in the Detroit area. Detroit will showcase its excellence in mobility and smart technology while the Ukrainian delegates share information about their work in developing intelligent smart urban infrastructure in Ukraine. 

Global Ties Detroit is implementing virtual programming for IVLP Gold Star alumni, Serhii Letuchyi, from eastern Ukraine. A musician, human rights activist, and advocate for people with disabilities, Serhii resides in the city of Starobielsk in eastern Ukraine. Following his 2017 IVLP visit to the U.S., Mr. Letuchyi organized a review of accessibility at city buildings and shared the outcome with local officials, business leaders, and the public. His outreach led to the construction of five ramps that improved accessibility in his city. In 2020, in response to COVID-19, Mr. Letuchyi helped organize #caring_bridge, an international, online collaboration of Ukrainian musicians to bring people together during a time of isolation. 

Mr Letuchyi will meet with Detroit-based arts organizations to share and discuss initiatives to create space for and celebrate diverse youth through the arts and artistic expression. 

Watch Now: https://youtu.be/YWHInYK88j8

A Japanese Fellow in the State Department’s Global Government to Government Partnership (G3P) - part of the International Visitor leadership Program - is conducting a major research project on digital governance in the U.S. The Fellow has worked for Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications where he held multiple positions focused on digital governance, and began helping to plan the government’s information systems, rising to become the Section Chief of the Government’s Shared Platform Management. He will meet with greater Detroit-based university professors to discuss UX research and design, especially as it relates to the impact of COVID-19 on UX research and service design. 

On Thursday, 3 December 2020, from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST, you are invited to meet IVLP alumna Rabi Wilson who will discuss her work and research around women and girls. As a Senior Portfolio Management Office at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Rabi enables delivery of a portfolio of over 30 international projects while leading on Gender Policy, contract management, due diligence and learning and development. She is the Head of Policy, Culture and Evidence in her department’s staff network Women Empowered, where she focuses on empowering women in the workforce and including male allies in conversation around feminism. Her volunteer work includes experience leading community engagement initiatives in the health education sector in South Africa. She holds an MA in Anthropology International Development and Human Rights where she specialized in Violence Against Women & Girls. She hopes to further develop her leadership skills and learn how to better engage young people in discussion on harmful gender roles. In her spare time, Rabi runs a small business and loves to take up creative projects such as calligraphy. Register through this link.

December 3, 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM EST

Join us for an exciting lecture and information session featuring the history of World Expos, highlights of past events, and details of past US Pavilions and the role of Youth Ambassadors.
Mega events scholar Mark Wilson, professor of Urban Planning at Michigan State University, will explore the prestige and glamour of these mega events, their transformative impact on the host city, as well as the platform they represent for promoting national identity and showcasing new technology. Prof. Wilson has decades of experience with mega events, has attended almost every Expo since 1982, and was involved in planning and organizing processes for many of these!
This lecture is followed by a presentation and Q&A session about opportunities to get involved with Expo 2020 Dubai, featuring the U.S. Department of State Expo Unit, and Global Ties U.S. Don't miss it and register!
 

Global Ties Detroit is proud to announce its participation in #GivingTuesday this year! Giving Tuesday is a day when we as a community come together to support local nonprofits through donations towards their organization and mission. 

Global Ties Detroit works to promote citizen diplomacy and global exchange while empowering our Alumni around the world to be Change Agents in their Communities. The work we do would not be possible without our supporters, donors, volunteers, alumni and network. Leading up to Giving Tuesday, we will be expressing our thanks on social media for all those who make our work possible!

You can support Global Ties Detroit and our network of Citizen Diplomats by donating at https://tinyurl.com/GTD-donate. Any donation is welcomed and appreciated - thank you for your continued support! 

Our first round of Global Trivia two weeks ago was a success! Are you ready for another evening of testing your world knowledge?

Join us Wednesday 11/11 at 5:00pm EST for our 2nd round of Global Trivia!  You can attend by using this zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItf-uopzovGtz_iAYWuXg7Eqpcd5IpIIKg  

The person with the highest score from the first and second trivia rounds will go on to represent Detroit at the Global Ties US National global trivia event!

See you there! 

On behalf of our partner Gulf Coast Diplomacy, you are invited to participated in a Small World Cafe on Wednesday, November 4 from 11 AM - 1 PM Eastern. Journalists from 11 countries - Austria, Finland, France, Greece, Montenegro, Poland, Republic of North Macedonia, Slovenia, Spain, and the United Kingdom - will discuss the United States election, democracy in America, and their experience in the Edward R. Murrow International Visitor Leadership Program. Space is limited! To reserve your spot, email Gulf Coast Diplomacy at jena@gulfcoastdiplomact.org with your name and affiliation with Global Ties Detroit. Registration closes on November 2. 

Global Ties Detroit is hosting a trivia to test your global knowledge. This trivia will give you the chance to join in on some friendly competition. 

On October 29th starting 6:00 PM Eastern, we will bring you a new set of questions. The individual with the highest accumulative score after the session will go on to represent Detroit in a national competition. There is no cost to play, donations appreciated. This is the perfect opportunity to have fun and test your global knowledge!

This U.S. Department of State sponsored program is designed to explore environmental impact and regulation. It will expose Pakistani participants to U.S. waste-to-energy (WtE) technology and solutions and provide opportunities for participants to observe how the U.S. manages municipal solid waste and generates electricity.

This virtual program is designed for Lebanese professionals to explore the foundations and challenges of civil rights in the U.S. Through the Detroit portion of the program, delegates will learn about community-law enforcement partnerships, in particular how police, schools, and the community work together to tackle human rights issues within marginalized communities. The delegation will explore varied approaches to diversity awareness and the promotion of inclusive public attitudes. 

An hour-long event celebrating local and international leaders, diplomacy in Detroit, global engagement, and the power of international connections. 

This interactive virtual session will provide international relations students, interns, and foreign affairs professionals an in-depth understanding of the role of exchange programs in global power dynamics and strategic power and offer networking opportunities with foreign affairs related organizations.

READ MORE⤵️

https://eca.state.gov/ivlp/about-ivlp/building-strategic-power-through-exchanges

Global Ties Detroit will take part in a virtual U.S. Department of State project to provide opportunities for South African delegates to examine methods used to identify bottlenecks and to measure and determine delays and
transit times at commercial border posts in the U.S. and understand the role of nongovernmental organizations in promoting highway safety and enforcing safety regulations. Many of the U.S. companies that operate in South Africa and use the country as a springboard have complained to the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service about time delays and costs to export to the region due to inefficiencies at border crossings. This project is designed to help delegates accelerate regulatory changes that improve and streamline trade across borders in the region. 

A discussion on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), growing America's economy, and strengthening U.S. communities. Moderated by Oakland University Director of Corporate and Foundation Relations Irene Spanos and featuring Global Business Alliance President and CEO Nancy McLernon.

Global Ties Detroit is facilitating a virtual exchange between a delegation from Cote d'Ivoire and Detroit journalists, law enforcement, and political advocacy groups. Delegates from Cote d'Ivoire and Detroiters will discuss best practices in organizing fair and transparent elections, effective tools for countering political disinformation, and building successful political campaigns. 

We are continuing our partnership with Gulf Coast Diplomacy in the  Small World Café series to bring the world to your home through informal conversations with professionals from around the globe.

Global Ties Detroit is facilitating a virtual exchange between a South African delegation and Detroit-based arts organizations. Through meetings with the Detroit community, the South Africans will explore community-based arts programs that address STEAM education; learn about innovative music educations programs, especially those in under-served areas; and explore advanced community-based programs including incubators for digital creative skills. 

As part of the  International Visitor Leadership Program’s 80th anniversary, come join this discussion with one of the selected #FacesOfExchange to review his work as an environmental activist whose initiatives have local and international impact.

Presented by Global Ties Detroit & Gulf Coast Diplomacy

This summer, we are partnering with Gulf Coast Diplomacy Council in Pensacola, FL for a Summer Event Series to bring the world to your home through informal conversations with professionals from around the world. The fourth event of the Summer Event Series is Small World Cafe. 

This summer, we are partnering with Gulf Coast Diplomacy Council in Pensacola, FL for a Summer Event Series to bring the world to your home through informal conversations with professionals from around the world. The third event of the Summer Event Series is Small World Cafe. 

Quartz Water Source was founded in response to Flint’s Water Crisis. Today, Quartz is committed to expanding access to clean water around the world through Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) technology. Global Ties Detroit Board Treasurer and Quartz Water Source founder Jonathan Quarles will discuss how entrepreneurship can empower communities and improve human conditions locally and globally. The discussion will be from 2-2:30 EST. 

This summer, we are partnering with Gulf Coast Diplomacy Council in Pensacola, FL for a Summer Event Series to bring the world to your home through informal conversations with professionals from around the world. The first event of the Summer Event Series is Small World Cafe. 

In our first virtual exchange program, six government officials and law enforcement professionals from Brazil will meet with Equality Michigan - Michigan's statewide lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) anti-violence and political advocacy organization. Equality Michigan leaders will discuss how they work to increase self-determination, safety, and power for community members who have been discriminated against against and harmed.

Test your global knowledge and join us for our second week of Global Trivia. There will be new set of questions to test your knowledge this week.

With the surge in Internet use as people are staying at home, many businesses are leveraging digital to get more and new clients locally and globally. Learn from industry veteran Jim Glasgow’s 20 years of experience advising on Search Engine Optimization, digital outreach, online advertising such as Google, and leveraging tools to reach north American and international prospects and clients. The discussion will be from 2-2:30 PM. 

Global Ties Detroit is hosting two weeks of trivia to test your global knowledge. There will be two sessions of trivia where you will get the chance to win prizes and join in on some friendly competition. 

ACCESS is a nonprofit organization that empowers communities to improve their economic, social and cultural well-being. They provide comprehensive services in the areas of health and wellness, education, youth, and employment. When COVID-19 cases in Southeast Michigan began growing exponentially, ACCESS partnered with The Wayne State University Physician Group to provide free drive-through testing for symptomatic health care workers and first responders in Dearborn and Detroit. As the pandemic continues, ACCESS Deputy Director Madiha Tariq will discuss the importance of creating global health diplomacy through mediums like the ACCESS 9th Arab Health Summit. The discussion will be from 3:30 - 4 PM.

Ed Clemente has been to over 80 countries spanning across six continents. His recent travels in Eastern Europe, as part of a Global Ties Detroit delegation (Belarus) and on his own (Moldova and Ukraine), are home to friendly people, break-away republics, nuclear disaster zones, major Roman, Medieval, WWI & WWII monuments, echoes of the Soviet empire, UNESCO sites, palaces, churches, castles, and more. Join Ed as he shares his perspectives on the unique personalities, sights, and experiences from these fascinating places!

Global Ties Detroit Board Members Pranadhi Koradia and Alexandra Stan will discuss the state of the global supply chain and the logistics of getting supplies from point A to B. 

W.E. Da'Cruz and Naomi Cook are co-founders of The Virtual Global Consultant (VGC) Group, LLC. VGC develops and designs eCommerce systems that help generate revenue online for people, companies, and organizations. Da'Cruz and Cook will discuss how to stand out in the global marketplace while navigating digital strategies for customer engagement.

Saeed A. Khan is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Near East & Asian Studies and the Director of Global Studies at Wayne State University where he teaches Islamic and Middle East History, Politics, and Culture. Khan will discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on international relations and forecast how global policies will change after the crisis. Listeners are invited to participate in a brief Q&A after the discussion. 

Lou Fintor is a U.S. Department of State Foreign Service Officer currently serving as Diplomat in Residence for the North Central Region (MI, IN, OH, KY), based at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Ford School of Public Policy. Fintor will discuss State Department recruiting efforts in Metro Detroit and the importance of local global and local citizen initiatives, and the Department's Michigan programs including the International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) and its partnership with Global Ties Detroit.

During these uncertain times Global Ties Detroit has chosen to leverage our strong network of supporters to provide the Detroit community with information and connection through a Virtual Talk Series on crucial topics. 

A team of six professionals from Tunisia are coming to Detroit to exchange views and methods for developing students’ skills in leadership, critical thinking, and digital technology. They will also be identifying current instructional trends, such as community-based learning; project-based learning, and theme-based learning across subjects, as well as discussing solutions for keeping students motivated, engaged, and inspired while learning. 

A team of six professionals from Jordan are coming to Detroit to discuss techniques to identify forms of gender-based abuse, report abuse, prosecute abusers, and provide assistance and protection to victims of gender-based violence. They will also explore collaboration between law enforcement, government, and civil society to prevent and combat gender-based violence as well as examining the education and outreach initiatives which focus on avoiding perpetuating gender-based violence, and combating trafficking in persons. 

Global Ties Detroit is excited to be chosen to receive a visit from the IWOC awardee. The Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award (IWOC) annually recognizes women around the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment, often at great personal risk and sacrifice.  The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) partners annually with the Secretary’s Office of Global Women’s Issues (S/GWI) on IWOC to offer an International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) following the award ceremony. With a Detroit Free Press reporter who has covered FGM extensively, partnerships between local police and a community program to combat gender violence, and an extensive network for female leaders and entrepreneurs, Global Ties Detroit will provide a hard-hitting, comprehensive program for IWOC on Women’s Health and Economic Empowerment themes.  

A team of seven professionals from Russia will visit Detroit to explore U.S. public and private sector approaches to international educational marketing and test preparation and observe the positive connection between international education and career and economic development. The group will also focus on how U.S. community colleges and universities work with local industries to train students with 21st century skills. 

A delegation of eleven professionals from multiple countries in the Near East and North Africa will visit Detroit to examine the U.S. political and electoral process, as well as political activism. They will review political, social, and economic policy formulation processes, leadership strategies and skills, and communications techniques used to run an effective campaign. There will be a focus on the political priorities of the younger generation and the role of young Americans in shaping the future U.S. political landscape. 

The Open World Program is a unique, nonpartisan initiative of and funded by the United States Congress that builds mutual understanding between the emerging leaders of participating countries and their U.S. counterparts.  

The most significant external barriers in the course of implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs/activities in Ukraine are the volatile political situation in the country, an inadequate legal framework to encourage such activity, and tax pressure. Through the Open World program, a 6-person delegation from Ukraine will look at the impact of effective CSR efforts in the United States and work closely with CSR leaders in various companies and at the community level to learn best practices from another. The program will also include ways in which the government/tax code can promote CSR in the development of communities

A team of ten professionals from Pakistan will be visiting Detroit to experience American academic institutions that prioritize and facilitate the professional development of faculty. These professionals will observe the research methods that best lead to innovation. Participants will also have the opportunity for professional academic collaboration with American counterparts. 

A team of six professionals from Colombia will visit Detroit to observe how female leaders mentor the next generation in various specialties and areas of expertise in service to their communities. They will meet with women leaders in the Detroit area promoting economic development, environmentally sustainability, and political empowerment. This experience will familiarize participants with the constitutional, judicial, and legislative processes that promote gender equality and protect human rights that contribute to the overall goal of a peaceful society. 

Ten (10) professionals from El Salvador will meet with counterparts in the Detroit area to examine innovation in urban sustainability, public spaces for community use, social entrepreneurship and the role of the business sector in urban planning. Additionally, the delegation will explore the role of art in community revitalization in Detroit. 

Eight (8) firefighters from Iraq will meet with fire departments and emergency operations and training centers in the Detroit area to observe U.S. firefighting techniques, examine effective approaches to disaster management, and build relationships with professional counterparts that would allow for future exchanges. 

Ten (10) professionals from Portugal will meet with their counterparts in Detroit to discuss global best practices and experiences with respect to exploiting the connection between criminal activity and border security, and to observe cross border and international cooperation conducted by U.S. authorities as well as fusion center and multi-agency approaches to trafficking. 

Three (3) visitors from France will be in Detroit to examine local initiatives and action to counter extremism and study early detection programs, programs involving families and schools, and intervention efforts. 

Thirteen (13) emerging leaders will be visiting Detroit to meet with their professional counterparts. The objectives of this project include: examining ways to foster local business opportunities as well as how to take advantage of new technology to generate employment opportunities; exploring social enterprise as a model for business and social development; and discussing skillsets that qualify youth for the job market and efforts that demonstrate to businesses the benefits of hiring well trained youth.

Eleven (11) professionals from the United Kingdom will visit Detroit with the objective to build shared understanding of both countries’ border protection and law enforcement programs focused on preventing and combating serious crime including terrorism, human and drug trafficking.

Six (6) professionals from the People's Republic of China will meet with their counterparts in Detroit to learn about and experience the social, economic, legal, and political factors that encourage the development of private enterprise, including innovation, managerial skills, the removal of barriers to growth, access to credit, business incubators, and public-private partnerships. Through these meetings they will examine mentoring and other models to encourage entrepreneurs who launch small startup businesses. 

Eight (8) Albanian professionals will visit Detroit for a project to explore the media’s contributions to fighting corruption and organized crime, holding police and judicial bodies accountable as well as supporting those institutions in upholding the rule of law; analyze differences in journalistic techniques in the United States; and illustrate best practices from media outlets, non-profit organizations, and journalism associations supporting independent media work, as well as watchdog organizations and leading media outlets that exposed corruption and organized crime activity.

Eight (8) Macedonian professionals will meet with their counterparts in Detroit to learn about the institutions that protect and celebrate America’s religious diversity and the American value of religious freedom, at both the community level and on the international stage and interact with community religious leaders and learn how religious leaders in the United States participate in community and civic life through dialogue and activism.

Twelve (12) educators from Saudi Arabia will travel to Detroit explore the roles of government agencies, NGOs, and local community organizations in school governance and the incorporation of religion in public and private schools.

Eight (8) professionals from Colombia will meet with their counterparts in Detroit to learn best practices in building ecosystems that allow entrepreneurship and innovation to thrive, and to examine approaches to promoting inclusive economic growth and sustainable development as the country transitions to sustainable peace

Six (6) professionals from Uzbekistan will be in Detroit to learn about human rights as they apply to the prosecution of criminal court cases, examine intelligence sharing and cooperation among federal, local and international entities in the prosecution of counter-terrorism and other criminal cases, and learn about investigations and the relationships between prosecutors’ offices and law enforcement agencies, particularly local police forces.

The 10-member delegation of private sector professionals from business and non-governmental organizations will be exploring best cooperation models of civil society/community organizations and private business. They are interested to learn about platforms and infrastructure for supporting multi-sectoral collaboration, including government involvement. They are also seeking efficient strategies and tools for civil society/community organizations to engage with businesses, and case studies of private sector engagement in the projects that support reducing environmental pollution, and gender equality, civic activism and inclusive development.

Four (4) professionals from Thailand will meet with their professional counterparts in Detroit to learn from local, state, and government agencies, non-profits, and advocacy groups how to end trafficking, especially labor trafficking, both domestically and internationally. 

Ten (10) Lithuanian professionals and their program facilitators will visit Detroit and surrounding areas to learn from the best practices of municipal authorities and public administration institutions and incorporate the lessons learned into municipal governance.

Six (6) Indonesian professionals will meet with counterparts in Detroit to examine how U.S. borders are protected through the use of personnel, technology, information sharing and infrastructure; learn how stakeholders sort through cutting edge technology and analytic tools to protect the U.S. and its citizens; and observe how stakeholders coordinate and share information across the federal, state and local government to protect against global criminal organizations and terrorism.

Five (5) professionals from Korea will visit Detroit to examine the role of state and local government in establishing U.S. commercial and economic policies, and obtain the perspectives of experts regarding the current trade outlook in the U.S. 

Sixteen (16) professionals from El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mexico will visit Detroit and meet local counterparts to explore the issues minority groups face, witness the role that activism and advocacy play in promoting social, educational and economic advancement, and observe social institutions that address the needs of minority youth. 

Seven (7) professionals from Angola will be in Detroit to enhance understanding of the underlying principles of ethical systems for accountability in government and business in the United States, and explore the role of citizens, traditional and new media, and civil society in fostering transparency and accountability in government. 

Twenty-three delegates representing countries from around the world will meet with their professional counterparts in the Detroit area to examine international economic cooperation in the context of the growth and integration of emerging markets in to the world economy, and to explore how the global economy affects local businesses and communities. 

Global Ties Detroit is excited to welcome 24 delegates from 22 countries (see the list below) who are in Detroit looking at global economic cooperation.

Afghanistan | Australia | Bangladesh | Brazil | Cambodia | Ecuador | Egypt | Israel | Japan | Mexico | Morocco | Palestinian Territories | People's Republic of China | Philippines | Republic of Korea | Spain | Ukraine | United Arab Emirates | United Kingdom
Join us at the remarkable Belle Isle Aquarium for a Summer Networking Mixer where you can help us show off the business ecosystem we are so proud of in Detroit. You just my expand your business networks globally!
Please call/email the office if you have any problems with registration or questions.
313.638.1626 | mail@globaltiesdetroit.org

https://www.facebook.com/events/790534564712422/

Eight (8) young leaders from the UK will travel to Detroit to meet counterparts for discussion revolving around youth empowerment, civic engagement, diversifying economic opportunities and encouraging political engagement, and revitalization efforts in the community. 

A renowned musician from Equatorial Guinea will visit Detroit to meet with individuals and organizations involved in music education for youth and music for social change. 

Thirteen (13) professionals from Iraq will visit the Detroit and Dearborn area to discuss interfaith efforts and cooperation on shared spiritual and social aims and gain an understanding of how U.S. religious organizations tolerate different faiths. 

Fifteen (15) professionals from Bangladesh, India and Pakistan will meet with Detroit-area counterparts to examine and discuss public/private partnerships and cooperative efforts to improve community welfare and prevent domestic abuse, and the range of social service agencies involved in the prevention and treatment and assistance to victims. 

Eight (8) media executives from Central Asia will meet with journalists and media organizations in the Detroit area for a journalism and media study tour. 

Five (5) professionals from Azerbaijan will meet with their counterparts in Detroit to discuss human rights advocacy, civic activism and monitoring, and youth leadership. 

Seven (7) professionals from various regions in Europe will focus on U.S. and international efforts to raise awareness and acceptance of human and civil rights for ethnic, cultural, gender, racial, and religious minority communities. In Detroit, visitors will explore advocacy efforts at the local and state level to elevate equality and dignity of minority communities. 

The Russian Business Leaders (RBL) professional exchange program is a Department of State program for emerging business, entrepreneurship and innovation leaders from Russia who are committed to driving
economic development through leadership and sound business practices. Global Ties Detroit will be hosting six (6) young professionals in media, marketing, management, and programming. 

Eleven (11) professionals from South and Central Asia will visit Detroit to learn about and discuss the Flint Michigan water crisis, its effects, and its ongoing resolution, as well as advocacy to address environmental challenges and enact future protections and the intersection between environmental, health, and social justice issues.

Nine (9) professionals from European countries will visit Detroit to meet with local businesses, entrepreneurs, and government officials to examine how businesses and communities have weathered the global financial crisis, facilitated trade promotion, and attracted foreign investment.

Sixteen (16) professionals from China will visit Detroit to meet with small businesses, investment firms, nonprofits, and business accelerators to engage in discussion on entrepreneurship and small business development in Detroit. 

Eight (8) women business leaders from India will meet with professional counterparts in the Detroit area to discuss economic empowerment for women, the role of women entrepreneurs in giving back to the community, and creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem from the ground up. 

Six (6) Media professionals and academics from Belarus will examine the impact of digital and social media on the availability and veracity of news. Participants will engage with non-profits, organizations, and other communities about the economic, political, and social impact of disinformation. Through these engagements they will be familiarized with the importance of critical thinking to be able to provide balanced and truthful information to the media. 

Six (6) visitors from senior leadership positions in the State Migration Service (SMS) of Ukraine will be examining and discussing best practices in Immigration and Citizenship functions. 

Five (5) Indonesian professionals will visit Detroit to meet with their counterparts to understand how Muslim and other faith-based organizations organize to play a positive role in civil society and to discuss best practices for building communities’ resilience to conflict across religious, ethnic, racial, or political divides.

Opportunity for hosting dinner is available! 

Eleven (11) professionals from Afghanistan will be coming to Detroit to examine mediation, family-centered solutions, and victim protections as it relates to domestic violence. During their stay, they will meet with counterparts working within the justice system, law enforcement, and NGOs to discuss efforts and solutions to ending domestic violence. 

Seven (7) Russian professionals will visit Detroit to meet with their counterparts, focusing on how U.S. foreign policy is developed and analyzed. 

Nine (9) Imams from Indonesia will visit Detroit to learn about religious tolerance, civic values, democracy and modern management of Islamic institutions in the U.S. Imams will meet with religious leaders and interfaith nonprofits. 

The United States Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award annually recognizes women around the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. Since the inception of this award, the State Department has honored more than 120 women from more than 65 different countries. This year Detroit will host IWOC Awardee Anna Aloys Henga.

Anna Henga is a Tanzanian lawyer, human rights activist, and the Executive Director of the Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC). She has dedicated her entire professional career to advancing human rights in Tanzania with a particular focus on women and children. Highlights of Ms. Henga’s work include coordinating Tanzania’s Anti-Female Genital Mutilation Coalition, mobilizing the Southern Africa Legal Assistance Network to defend the human rights of women in Maasai communities, and proactively encouraging women candidates to run for office during the 2015 general election cycle, which resulted in several successful campaigns. She has also played an influential role in publicly voicing concern over the direction of democratic governance through adverse legislative and constitutional actions in her country. 

Four (4) professionals from the Philippines will be visiting Detroit to discuss strategies for developing a legal framework to protect women's rights in a Muslim context, training and psychological services in the Detroit area offered to children and families who experience conflict and trauma, and legal and emotional support for survivors of violence and trafficking. 

Six (6) professionals will be visiting Detroit to discuss public/private partnership for economic development and job creation, the evolution of manufacturing, and the impact of changing international trade and economic policies on the local economy.

Seven (7) professionals from Latin America will be visiting Detroit and networking with professional counterparts to learn about efforts to end gender-based violence, including prevention and response strategies.

Nine (9) delegates from China will interact with leaders to learn about cutting-edge technology around transportation and infrastructure in southeast Michigan.

Four (4) delegates learn how the private and public sectors work together to better enfranchise marginalized groups.

Representatives on behalf of Global Ties Detroit will travel to Russia in a State Department-sponsored reciprocal exchange following our hosting of Russian Business Leaders in Summer 2018.

Nine (9) delegates from Congo will come to Detroit to learn about the region's economic development initiatives and engagement in international trade. 

Six leaders from across the globe will participate in professional fellowships in the Detroit metro area in their fields of interest and experience.

Six delegates from Italy will learn about resources for supporting marginalized populations.

Eight visitors from across Europe will explore methods for establishing and maintaining global security through international cooperation.

Visitors from around the world will explore the U.S. election process.

Twelve visitors will explore regulations across international trade and investments.

Ten visitors from Australia will learn about the US and local election process.

Nine leaders in professional sports management form the United Kingdom will visit Detroit to learn about corporate social responsibility best practices for professional sports teams.

Three (3) visitors from Malta will explore Detroit's own regional and national experts in sustainable transportation trends and technology.

Five (5) academics and religious leaders will be visiting Detroit to explore methods of connecting differing groups of people and organizations through collaboration between local communities.

ix (6) students will be visiting Detroit and the Southeast Michigan region to explore the area's highly respected academic institutions.

Seven (7) women will be visiting Detroit to examine successful entrepreneurial efforts particularly those initiated or managed by women and the strategies that led to their advancement in addition to exploring  the social, economic, cultural, and political factors that influence and encourage the development of private enterprise in the United States. They will be coming from Bulgaria, Mozambique, Peru, South Africa and Tanzania.

Forty (40) students from Palestine Polytechnic University (PPU) will be in Detroit to learn about entrepreneurship for "techies." They are students of engineering, telecommunications, IT, mechatronics, and more.  Their program will include a three-day job shadow experience (September 11-13) with local experts and practitioners in their respective fields.

Two (2) professionals will be visiting Detroit to network with policymakers, regulators, engineers, industry leaders, and technology experts in the mobility and transportation sectors, as well as examine how the evolution of transportation and infrastructure improves overall quality of life.

Fourteen (14) officials will be visiting the United States to examine U.S. trade policies and port operations, assess free trade agreements, and explore regional trade agreement models as applicable to their own countries' economic interests.

Six (6) experts will be visiting Detroit to expand their perspectives on labor issues by engaging in discussions with governmental agencies, non-profits, think tanks, and advocacy circles while examining best labor practices within the United States.

Six (6) officials will be in Detroit to examine methods to reduce and prevent illegal unregulated fishing through government, private, academic, and civic cooperation.

Quarterly meeting of Board of Directors of Global Ties Detroit.

Ten (10) environmental advocates from Uganda will be visiting Detroit to examine best practices in supporting healthy air quality.

Global Ties Detroit, in partnership with the University of Michigan and the Arab American Women’s Business Council (AAWBC), is pleased to welcome a group of forty (40) technology students along with five (5) of their professors from Palestine Polytechnic University to explore metro Detroit’s extensive entrepreneurial ecosystem and forge partnerships with institutions and academics.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven business professionals  from Algeria, Cyprus, Egypt, Mexico, Mongolia, Senegal, and Uzbekistan examining Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development .

Join us for a spectacular evening of networking, strolling dinner and drinks, a silent auction, and guided tours of the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant while we tell you all about the tremendous year that we've had and the exciting one coming up!

Our featured speaker for the evening is the remarkable new President and CEO of Global Ties U.S., Dr. Katherine Brown, Ph.D.

WDET's charming and talented Sandra Svoboda is our emcee.

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, 461 Piquette St., Detroit, MI 48202

Please RSVP by June 14, 2018.

Global Ties Detroit Members are complimentary. Have you renewed your membership? Renew now! 

Non-members are $45. Memberships begin at $75 and include the Annual Dinner. Become a member!

Many thanks to our sponsor, DTE Energy, with additional support from Oakland County government and Infinity and Ovation Yacht Charters.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 7 music and performing artists and event organizers from Russia examining Performing Arts Management In Disadvantaged Regions.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four community development leaders examining Developing Infrastructure For Economic Growth.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six law enforcement officials and anti-trafficking advocates examining Trafficking In Persons: Rehabilitation .

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 6 community and religious leaders examining Countering Violent Extremism- Community Strategies.

Global Ties Detroit is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Atlas Corps!  Together we facilitate fellowships between the best global rising leaders and SE Michigan organizations addressing social issues.  Fellows volunteer at organizations for 12 to 18 months and are enrolled in an ongoing training program.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for twenty-four government officials, journalists, and business professionals exploring Cooperative Efforts in Combating Transnational Crime.

Join us for the April Members Only Meet & Greet! Visit with a European Regional Project delegation (Albania, Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, European Commission, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, Slovakia, Spain, and United Kingdom) who are visiting the U. S. to learn about Cooperative Efforts in Combating Transnational Crime.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 4 TV broadcasters examining Broadcast Television .

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 5 law enforcement officials exploring Countering Terrorism.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five NGO and government officials examining Refugee Integration.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six educators from Indonesia examining Faith Based Education. 

This US State Department-sponsored exchange program is for eleven English-language educators exploring Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Exchange Program.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 15 youth advocates from Bolivia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Honduras, Panama, Uruguay, and Venezuela exploring at risk youth. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five government officials and educators from Azerbaijan exploring Workforce Education: Workforce Development and Public Private Partnerships.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six migration advocates from Chile, Costa Rica, Honduras, Mexico, and Venezuela exploring migration issues. 

Doors open and Registration begins at 2:30pm. The event is FREE and open to the public, please RSVP online here. The event ends at 4:00pm, followed by an opportunity for informal networking. For questions or further information, you may email expo@state.gov. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 11 academics, advisers, and political leaders from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Germany, Portugal, Sweden, Turkey, Ukraine,, United Kingdom, and USEU Brussels exploring The Contemporary U.S. Economy: Financial Markets, Trade, and Economic Development . 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for ten private sector and government officials from Mongolia examining Combating Corruption.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 4 community activists and representatives from civic organizations, political parties, and government institutions from Germany exploring Combating Online Harassment and Hate.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for twelve finance officials and research leaders examining  Bankruptcy Reform in the United States.

This US State Department-sponsored exchange program is for 10 civil society leaders from Trinidad and Tobago exploring Countering Violent Extremism.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four labor advocates from Kazakhstan exploring labor issues. 

Come exchange ideas with U.S. State
Department-sponsored emerging leaders from
Trinidad and Tobago (Community Resilience) and Kazakhstan (Labor Relations). 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 4 economic and social policy makers at the city and regional level, and social entrepreneurs,  from Italy exploring Economic Development and Urban Revitalization.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 7 government officials and NGO worker from Iraq exploring Domestic Violence, Women, and Children's Issues.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 13 NGO leaders and managers from Syria exploring NGO Leadership in Times of Conflict. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 3 community advocates and lecturers from Thailand exploring Civil Rights Advocacy.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 5 NGO leaders from Ukraine exploring Channeling Energy for Sustained Social Change.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 9 entrepreneurs and business professionals from Bulgaria, Macedonia, and Serbia exploring Entrepreneurship.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 6 female engineers and tech educators from Costa Rica and their 2 State Dept. liaisons exploring Tech/STEAM Women Leaders.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 4 teachers from Indonesia exploring Child Protection in the U.S. Social Welfare and Justice System.

Algeria, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Croatia, Egypt, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Libya, Malaysia, Mexico, Palestinian Territories, People's Republic of China, Portugal, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Slovenia, Sweden, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkey, Uzbekistan, Vietnam

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for twenty eight business leaders and their U.S. State Department Liaisons, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for ten journalists from India exploring the efforts being made by the private sector and state and local governments to transition to clean energy sources such as solar and wind, increase their energy use efficiency, and reduce their overall carbon footprint.

Location: Techtown | 440 Burroughs St. | Detroit, MI 48202

Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for fifteen religious and community advocates from Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, and Niger, exploring ways to combat terrorism and the terrorist networks that are taking root. And provide participants an opportunity to learn about strategic planning and explore government and civil society organizations in the United States that seek to tackle similar issues.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for eight academic youth advisors from Algeria exploring Career Centers and Job Creation for Youth.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven youth community leaders from Egypt, France, Republic of Kosovo, Kyrgyz Republic, Palestinian Territories and their U.S. State Department liaisons, who will be visiting Detroit to examine how youth leaders, activists, and regional and municipal officials can contribute positively to addressing social, economic and political marginalization.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for eight radio broadcasters from Nigeria exploring U.S. History, Education & Culture for Radio Broadcasters. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for ten educators and innovators from Belarus exploring Entrepreneurship Education for Schoolchildren (EES). 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for a group of delegates from Argentina exploring U.S. Labor Relations. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four community officials and NGO leaders from Israel exploring Municipal Government Budget Management.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for eight business leaders from Angola, Cabo Verde, & Sao Tome and Principe and their U.S. State Department liaisons, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Entrepreneurship and Business Development (Lusophone).

Enterprising Detroiters took advantage of our proximity to Canada, making the Detroit area a hub of activity during the Prohibition years. This unique tour will give our guests a chance to explore this chapter in our history first-hand by sailing past some of the bootleggers’ favorite locations along the Detroit River.

While cruising, plan to shop in The Peacock Room pop-up shop with Prohibition-era accessories that will make you look like the cat’s meow!

To register call: Global Ties Detroit 313.638.1626

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four educators and administrators from Malaysia exploring School Management and Pedagogy System for Madrasah.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for ten religious officials and scholars from Indonesia exploring Civil Society in Muslim Communities. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four community advocates and officials from Spain exploring Empowering Communities to Prevent Radicalization Among Youth. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for eight government officials from Thailand exploring Combating Trafficking in Persons. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 9 Educators from the Palestinian Territories and Israel and their U.S. State Dept. liaisons, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Education Innovation. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six community advocates from Iraq exploring Community Policing. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 14 women's health professionals from Egypt, Japan, Lesotho, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Morocco, Nigeria, Philippines, Russia, Trinidad and Tobago, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the West Bank, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Global Women's Health Issues. 

This two-part program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State is for two groups of 10-12 educators from all over the world. The second group of delegates are coming from Brazil, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Republic of Korea, Russia, Taiwan, Tajikstan, and Turkey.

They will be visiting Detroit to examine Summer Camp Management II.

This program of the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the U.S. Department of State is for two groups of 10-12 educators from all over the world. The first group of delegates are coming from Bahrain, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Japan, Kazakhstan, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Russia, Turkey, and Uzbekistan.

They will be visiting Detroit to examine Summer Camp Management.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for eight labor officials and advocates from Ghana, Malaysia, Mexico, People's Republic of China, Republic of Korea, Serbia, South Africa, and Thailand and their U.S. State Dept. liaison, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Labor Relations.

What does it mean to be a citizen diplomat? How can you promote cross-cultural exchange here at home? Join us in the parlor with Global Ties Detroit, a non-profit that hosts international exchange programs on behalf of the U.S. Department of State, USAID, and other agencies to advance global exchange and citizen diplomacy. With special guests:

• Marian Reich, Global Ties Detroit
• Jonathan Quarles, BTL Group
• Mariana Martinez, Office of City Council District 6

Hosted by Claire Nelson & Chase L. Cantrell. Thanks to support from Knight Foundation. Locals & travelers welcome.

Where: 

The Players Detroit Playhouse: 3321 East Jefferson Avenue Detroit, Michigan 48207. Join us for our exclusive member's only event--the 2017 Global Ties Detroit Annual Dinner! We'll celebrate at the historic Players Playhouse, a theatre designed in 1926 on East Jefferson in Detroit. The building is designed in the style of the sixteenth-century English Renaissance by William E. Kapp, who also designed the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Meadowbrook Hall, Detroit Historical Museum, and the Wilson Theatre. The interior stonework was created by sculptor, Corrado Parducci, and murals painted by muralist, Paul Honore.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four trade officials and journalists from India and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Trade Facilitation and Regional Connectivity.

This United States Embassy in Berlin sponsored exchange program is for six journalists from Germany and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Dealing with Disinformation in the Social Media Age.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five humanitarian leaders from Armenia and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Integrating the Needs of Refugees into Social Policy.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five educators and researchers from Italy and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Classroom Integration for Migrant Children.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for ten community advocates from Poland and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who visited Detroit to examine Civic Engagement in Small and Medium-Sized Cities.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven female entrepreneurs from Saudi Arabia and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters who visited Detroit to examine Women in Entrepreneurship.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five community advocates and state officials from Indonesia and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Community Approaches to Addressing Vulnerable Youth.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four boarder security officials from Brazil, Greece, Hong Kong, and Poland and their U.S. State Dept. liaison, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Toward a More Safe and Secure World: International Crime Issues.

Please join Global Ties Detroit Board of Directors and members to celebrate the onset of Spring, May 1st, at 6pm and welcome the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) delegation below. They will be studying efforts for a more safe and secure world, particularly regarding international crime.

• Brazil            Police Officer, Federal Police Department of the Ministry of Justice
• Greece         Passport Control and Investigations, Directorate of Makedonia Intl (Thessaloniki) Airport
• Hong Kong  Hong Kong SAR Customs and Excise Department
• Poland         Border Management and Counter‑Drug Trafficking, Polish Border Guard

Co-Hosted by MM-O-DD Metro Museum of Design 

AlShehail will give a short presentation and then be joined by moderator, Ms.Rachel Lutz of The Peacock Room and a panel of Detroit locals featuring Ms. Bena Burda of Maggie's Organics and Ms. Julia Rhodes of Rebel Nell. The main event will take place from 6:00-8:00PM, with complimentary refreshments. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for twelve entrepreneurs from Argentina,Chile, Costa Rica, Cuba, Honduras,Mexico, Panama, Paraguay, and Peru and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Small Business Development and Entrepreneurship.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six government leaders and religious advocates from Iraq and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Encouraging Peaceful Coexistence And Cooperation Between Religious Groups.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six researchers and community advocates from Russia and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Combating Violent Extremism.

This US State Department-sponsored exchange program, in partnership with Meridian International Center, for eleven educators and administrators from Indonesia, Israel, Mali, Nepal, Russia, Senegal, and Vietnam who will be visiting Detroit to examine TESOL: Educational Technology.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for twenty-one government and business officials, as well as journalists and academics, from the following countries: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Moldova, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain, and United Kingdom.

While in Detroit, the delegation seeks to examine The Contemporary U.S. Economy: Financial Markets, Trade and Economic Development.They will be accompanied by their U.S. State Dept. liaisons. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for three educators and academic advocates from Georgia and their U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Countering Violent Extremism in Youth.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five female STEM educators, researchers, and advocates, from Cyprus, Poland, Sri Lanka, Trinidad and Tobago, and the United Arab Emirates, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Women in STEM Fields.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five civic activists and community leaders from Georgia and their U.S. State Dept. liaison, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Youth Leadership & Engagement in the United States.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five educators and employment leaders from Bermuda, UK and their U.S. State Dept. liaison, who will be visiting Detroit to explore Workforce Development. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for three government officials from Germany who will be examining U.S. perspectives on Countering Hate and Promoting Tolerance.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four government officials and thought leaders from Indonesia who will be visiting Detroit to examine Benefits of Trade.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six entrepreneurs from Bulgaria, Chile, Lebanon, Mongolia, Sierra Leone, and Tunisia, and their U.S. State Dept. liaison, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development.

Global Ties Detroit Board and Staff are delighted to convene with our national colleagues at this year's Global Ties U.S. 2017 National Meeting! 
Join us and fellow globally-minded individuals and organizations to connect with leading experts in the fields of international exchange, foreign affairs, and diplomacy!

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven refugee political leaders and advocates from Latvia and their  U.S. State Dept. liaison, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Refugee Resettlement Integration.

October 8-November 7, 2016

This US State Department-sponsored Young Leaders of the Americas Initiative (YLAI) program will bring 14 English-speaking entrepreneurs and social entrepreneurs from Latin America and the Caribbean. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven political leaders from the Middle East & North Africa looking into "U.S. Electoral Processes and Campaigns".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for eleven digital technology leaders from all over the world taking part in the "GLOBAL DIGITAL LEADERS EXCHANGE" initiative. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven entrepreneurs and business professionals from the UAE looking into "Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the U.S."

October 4th-8th, 2016 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 9 musicians and cultural educators from the Middle East & North Africa looking into "Engaging Youth through Music".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for a human rights lawyer and journalist from Thailand looking into "Civic Activism".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for five community activists from the Philippines looking into "Community Service and Civic Engagement among University Students".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 29 political and economic leaders from all over the world looking into "Global Economic Trade and Revitalization ".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for four security leaders from Ukraine looking into "Best Practices in Border Protection".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for seven entrepreneurs and political leaders from Europe looking into "Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation".

#GlobalHangout is an initiative to involve young adults in citizen diplomacy and international exchange opportunities. 
This includes attending relevant citywide events, visiting cultural sites, and learning more about one another in an informal setting. 

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for ten female entrepreneurs from the Palestinian Territories looking into "Women and Entrepreneurship".

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 2 journalists from France looking into "Labor Issues in the U.S. ".

August 9-22, 2016

This World Learning Summer Youth Leadership (SYL) program will bring 11 high school students (ages 16-18) from Latin America

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for 4 refugee advocates and political leaders from the Europe into "Refugee Resettlement and Integration".

July 27-30, 2016

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for a political leader from the Netherlands exploring regional economic development and Detroit's revitalization.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) is for six cultural and refugee leaders from Italy and their two U.S. State Dept. interpreters, who will be visiting Detroit to examine Integration of Immigrants and Refugee Resettlement.

This US State Department-sponsored International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) program brought 6 young English-speaking political leaders from Europe, exploring Social, Economic and Political Issues...

June 4-19, 2016

This US State Department-sponsored Young Transatlantic Innovation Leaders Initiative (YTILI) program brought 6 English-speaking entrepreneurs and business leaders from Europe who took part in Fellowships, professional development, cultural and social activities and lived with homestay families throughout metro Detroit. 

May 14-22, 2016

This US Congress-sponsored Open World Leadership Program (OW) brought 6 judges from Armenia exploring Judicial Rule of Law.

The United States Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award annually recognizes women around the globe who have demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership in advocating for peace, justice, human rights, gender equality, and women’s empowerment, often at great personal risk and sacrifice. Since the inception of this award, the State Department has honored more than 120 women from more than 65 different countries. This year, one IWOC Awardee will come to Detroit to examine women's rights and empowerment.

On Thursday, 3 December 2020, from 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Central Time (UTC -6), you are invited to meet IVLP alumna Rabi Wilson who will discuss her work and research around women and girls. As a Senior Portfolio Management Office at the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, Rabi enables delivery of a portfolio of over 30 international projects while leading on Gender Policy, contract management, due diligence and learning and development. She is the Head of Policy, Culture and Evidence in her department’s staff network Women Empowered, where she focuses on empowering women in the workforce and including male allies in conversation around feminism. Her volunteer work includes experience leading community engagement initiatives in the health education sector in South Africa. She holds an MA in Anthropology International Development and Human Rights where she specialized in Violence Against Women & Girls. She hopes to further develop her leadership skills and learn how to better engage young people in discussion on harmful gender roles. In her spare time, Rabi runs a small business and loves to take up creative projects such as calligraphy.

Join us for an insightful conversation with award-winning journalist and author Jen Stout as she discusses her acclaimed book, Night Train to Odesa: Covering the Human Cost of Russia’s War. This powerful memoir chronicles Stout's firsthand experiences reporting from the front lines in Ukraine, offering a deeply human perspective on the ongoing conflict. Recognized as a BBC Radio 4 Book of the Week and recipient of the Saltire Society First Book of the Year Award, Night Train to Odesa sheds light on the resilience and stories of Ukrainians amidst war.

Please RSVP at the link below by April 23rd!

Event Timing: Monday, April 28th, 2025 from 8:30-10:00 AM
8:30 - 9:00 AM: Light Breakfast and Refreshments
9:00 - 10:00 AM: Book Talk