Whether you’re looking to study abroad or just want to get involved in culture exchange, there are a number of programs that are available to you. You can learn more about the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Iraq, as well as programs offered by organizations like AIESEC and the Japan Foundation.
AIESEC
Taking part in AIESEC culture exchange is a great way to learn about the world around you. It can help you gain new experiences, develop your leadership skills and explore your interests.
AIESEC is a youth-run global organisation that promotes cross-cultural exchanges. It is designed to help young people learn about themselves, build global relationships, and make a difference in the world.
AIESEC has over 42000 members worldwide, spanning 126 countries. Its core business is international volunteering, internships and leadership programs. The organization hosts over 500 conferences each year, which focus on entrepreneurship, leadership and sustainable development.
AIESEC is recognized by UNESCO and has consultative status with the United Nations ECOSOC. It has been recognized for nine straight years on the WorldBlu list of freedom-centred workplaces.
InterExchange
During the summer months, young people from 60 countries find internships, work experience and travel opportunities with InterExchange. They are also paired with host families in the United States to experience life in a new culture. The organization has a number of programs including Work & Travel USA and Au Pair USA.
The InterExchange website provides a cultural compass to help participants take advantage of local cultural activities. The organization has staff with extensive international experience and language skills.
In addition to the cultural compass, InterExchange offers affordable work and travel programs, language learning programs and exciting international exchange programs. Its programs include Work & Travel USA, Career Training USA and Au Pair USA. They also have a large network of partners and International Cooperator companies in over 60 countries.
The Japan Foundation
Founded in 1972 as a special legal entity under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Japan Foundation is a cultural exchange organization that promotes and supports Japanese cultural exchange in the world. The Foundation provides grants and other types of support to cultural institutions and individuals, and encourages cultural exchange by introducing Japanese culture to other countries. The Foundation focuses on three main categories: Japanese language education overseas, international exhibitions, and arts and culture.
In addition to grants, the Foundation has programs to support Japanese cultural specialists abroad, and other types of support. Applicants for grants are required to meet the following criteria:
Projects should not promote any specific political or religious viewpoints or commercial interests. Applicants should be part of non-governmental organizations and should not be involved in organizations that receive direct support from the government of Japan.
Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Iraq
Designed to bring junior Iraqi scholars to the United States, the Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Iraq includes mentorship, faculty development, and cultural exchange activities. In addition, it provides the opportunity to strengthen internationalization efforts in Iraq’s higher education system.
The program was created to build a base of higher education knowledge in Iraq, and it is designed to be both exciting and rewarding. It will bring fifteen junior Iraqi scholars to the U.S. and introduce them to new research methodologies, teaching methods, and cultural exchange activities. It will also provide a foundation for long-term institutional relationships.
The Fulbright Visiting Scholar Program for Iraq is an excellent way for junior Iraqi faculty to participate in cultural exchange activities and learn about the United States, its institutions, and its people. It will also enhance their abilities to teach in a classroom setting.
Highlander Research and Education Center
Founded in 1932, the Highlander Research and Education Center has a long history of training people for social justice. Initially, it focused on training union organizers, but in the 1950s, it expanded its focus to the civil rights movement. Today, Highlander focuses on economic justice, democratic participation, and environmental issues. During the civil rights movement, Highlander trained many important leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and John Beauchamp Thompson.
In the 1970s, Highlander became a key player in the environmental justice movement in Appalachia. Its work in this area expanded to include fighting pollution and toxic dumping. In the 1990s, it was involved in issues related to LGBT rights. Its programming often includes community-led research projects, which critically examine regional institutions.