The EMPOWER programs supports two-way professional exchanges designed to bolster disability rights around the world. Selected foreign participants will spend approximately one month in the United States to engage with key stakeholders in the disability rights community in developing creative solutions to the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in their home countries. The EMPOWER programs build the capacities of individuals and organizations to serve as leading disability rights advocates and to promote policies and programs benefiting people with disabilities in their respective communities.
Program Length
3-5 weeksEligibility and Application Overview
Public applications are accepted.Participants must:
- Be leaders in the disability rights community, with a demonstrated record and interest in effecting positive change in their institutions and communities;
- Be mid-level professionals with leadership potential in the public and private sectors, or civil society with experience and current employment in the disability rights community;
- Be proficient in written and oral English (or American Sign Language), self-directed, able to work effectively in a cross-cultural setting, and have demonstrated leadership abilities.
Additional eligibility requirements for this program may vary by country. Individuals who are interested should contact the partnering non-profit organizations, listed below, for more information.
Country-Specific Information
Participants apply through one of the partnering non-profit organizations, and will be selected through an open, merit-based, competitive process in consultation with the Public Affairs Section of the relevant U.S. Embassies. Prospective participants should contact the partnering organizations for information about upcoming exchange programs and eligibility requirements.