The United States Embassy in Nairobi has announced opportunities for youth from Kenya to join the 2025-2026 Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 23, the US Embassy announced that the application for the program is open for young people from several countries across the world, including Kenya.
“Are you a young Kenyan leader working to uplift your community? Apply for the CEE Program and gain hands-on experience in the U.S., build your leadership skills, and join a global network of changemakers,” read part of the statement.
CEE is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State with funding provided by the U.S. Government and supported in its implementation by IREX.
According to IREX, the program is a dynamic global network of innovators working with communities to address critical 21st-century issues.
While listing the eligibility requirements for the program, the organization noted that competition is merit-based and open to emerging civil society and community leaders who meet the listed criteria.
Requirements of Community Engagement Exchange Program
Among the requirements is that applicants must be within the age of 21-27 years who must be citizens of listed countries from different continents of the world.
Eligible countries in Africa include Kenya, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, Mali, Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
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Also, the applicants must be living and working in their home country at the time of application and should be eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 Visa.
“Special consideration can be given to individuals living in another country who have refugee status and are working on behalf of their home community,” adds IREX.
Applicants are also expected to have a minimum of two-years professional or volunteer experience, working on community or civil society issues, at the time of application.
Furthermore, the applicants should be committed to returning to their home country after completion of the program and implementing a community-based project and be proficient in spoken and written English at the time of application.
Financial Support & How to Apply
According to IREX, the program covers the cost of most expenses associated with J-1 visa support and round-trip travel from participants’ home city to the U.S.
The program also covers for monthly allowance to cover housing, meals, and other living expenses while in the U.S. together with accident and sickness health benefits
Eligible applicants are encouraged to apply through the Community Engagement Exchange Online Application website by May 22, 2025.
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CEE equips dedicated visionaries with the expertise, skills, and resources needed to develop multisectoral approaches and foster healthy, engaged communities across more than 100 countries.
A key component of the fellowship is a three-month practicum in the United States.
“IREX matches CEE fellows with civil society organizations across the United States. Designated supervisors and peers support the fellows through a three-month, hands-on professional practicum,” noted IREX.
In addition, successful applicants participate in the Leadership and Civic Engagement Academy, where they explore program themes through an interactive curriculum.
This includes service learning, in-person training sessions, mentorship, professional coaching, and inclusion in a global network of changemakers.
Further details about program’s application requirements are available on the IREX website.
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