FAQ

The U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) and the Public Affairs Sections (PAS) of the U.S. Embassies in countries of Sub-Saharan Africa support the participation of secondary school youth and adult educators in intensive, substantive three-week The Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP) for high school and undergraduate students is a program sponsored and funded by the US Embassy, Baghdad and U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, Youth Programs Division, and implemented by World Learning.

The IYLEP high school and undergraduate programs together have provided invaluable leadership and educational opportunities for over 3000 students since its creation in 2007. An investment in global understanding and peace, these fully funded programs have created a cadre of future leaders of Iraq: young people who will inspire and impact others.

We typically ask hosts to oversee a small group of participants (3-4 visitors) and plan enjoyable, interactive activities that showcase the Vermont lifestyle. During Cultural Days, hosts are also responsible for providing lunch and, in some cases, dinner. Additionally, hosts are asked to arrange pick-up and drop-off for their guests, usually around 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM on hosting days.

Although ideally, we would love for our hosts to be able to take participants for both cultural days, we understanding that this may not be possible. In this case, we would welcome hosts that can only take participants for one day.

Most of our hosts are within a 30 minute drive of where our IYELP exchanges take place. If you live farther away, please contact the VCWA as we would love to hear from you and discuss transportation options.

Our international visitors typically spend Monday-Friday (9am-5pm) participating in professional programming. Your guest will spend the weekends with you. We encourage you to include them in your daily activities and show them the beauty of our state.

IYLEP participants come from the U.S. and Iraq. Most participants are passionate about academics and life preparation and have demonstrate leadership potential and civic engagement in their communities. Youth participants are high school students between 15-18 years old. Accompanying the students will be one adult mentor.

Hosts can enjoy a variety of activities with their guests, such as exploring the Burlington Farmer’s Market, hiking, shopping, visiting a neighboring town, or relaxing at a local park.

The program includes safety protocols for all approved activities, and VCWA will provide detailed guidelines for confirmed hosts.

Most participants will eat Halal, but Vermont Council on World Affairs will inform you of any dietary restrictions and/or allergies your guest might have prior to their arrival.

This is an English speaking program and guests will had advanced knowledge of the language.

The best advice here will be to keep your eyes and ears open and not to be afraid of asking questions or explaining basic things “just in case.” Remember that your guest may not be like others from his or her country you met or previously hosted. A sense of humor always helps!  

Please be aware that some guests are more religious that others and may express interest in attending a local religious or spiritual event. Guests may also be interested in learning about your own spiritual practices!

IYELP participant photos also may not be shared on social media.

Current hosts will receive forms to fill out that enable us to match participants and hosts to the best of our abilities. A hosting packet will be given to hosts that contact relevant information for the program.