US Opens Applications for Kenyan Youth Exchange Program Offering 3-Month Visas
Young Kenyan leaders have been invited to apply for the 2026 cohort of the Community Engagement Exchange (CEE) Program, an international initiative offering three-month visas to the United States. The program targets youths aged between 21 and 27 who are actively working in civil society and community development.
Sponsored by the US Department of State, the CEE Program is designed to empower young changemakers across the globe. Selected fellows will receive a fully funded US J-1 visa to participate in a transformative three-month practicum at a civil society organization in the United States.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the US Embassy in Nairobi encouraged Kenyan applicants to take advantage of the opportunity. “Are you a young Kenyan leader working to uplift your community? Apply for the CEE Program and gain hands-on experience in the US, build your leadership skills, and join a global network of changemakers,” read the statement.
Each year, the program selects participants from over 100 countries, offering them a year-long leadership journey that includes mentorship, hands-on training, and access to a global network of innovators.
One of the key elements of the program is the Community Engagement Project (CEP), where fellows implement impactful projects back home, addressing pressing local issues with skills and insights gained from their US experience.
Participants receive comprehensive support, including:
- Fully paid round-trip travel expenses
- Living stipend covering meals, housing, and daily needs
- Health insurance for the program duration
- Funding for implementing community engagement projects after returning home
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be between 21 and 27 years old
- Have at least two years of professional or volunteer experience in civil society or community-related work
- Be a citizen of Kenya and meet other eligibility requirements
The deadline for Kenyan applicants is May 22, 2025.
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US Opens Applications for Kenyan Youth Exchange Program Offering 3-Month Visas