Washington, DC - In recognition of the positive role young people play in building sustainable peace, the U.S. Department of State will grant a new award to outstanding young leaders from around the world. The Emerging Young Leaders Award and Exchange Program will acknowledge international youth for their efforts to create constructive social change in a public ceremony on April 20.

The ten remarkable awardees, whose names will be announced prior to the award ceremony, will visit the United States for an intensive program specially tailored to explore leadership practices in the non-profit, government and private sectors, and to broaden their networks of resources and support.

Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs Evan Ryan announced the new initiative yesterday at the Global Leadership Forum hosted at the Presidential Precinct in Charlottesville, VA. Assistant Secretary Ryan emphasized that this award and exchange program goes beyond highlighting successful community projects. It also provides skills and training to set awardees on paths for increased collaboration on global issues affecting youth, particularly those involved in combating extremism, empowering voices, and peace building.

During the exchange program, April 13-May 5, the young leaders (ages 16-24) will connect with each other and with Americans in their areas of expertise to share best practices and create opportunities to amplify their work.