Naheed Afridi is an alumna of the International Visitor Leadership Program and a 2023 recipient of the IVLP Impact Awards for her project Enhancing Women’s Access to Public Services through Developing Women Leadership. Meridian International Center, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, implements the IVLP Impact Awards Initiative. IVLP Impact Awardees from across the world administer community impact projects that build on their experiences and promote innovative solutions to shared challenges. The IVLP Impact Awards Initiative aims to engage alumni, strengthen global networks, and support lasting community impact.   Shaping Our Collective Future...

By Julia Koski, Program Officer, Meridian International Center For over a century, celebrating International Women’s Day has served a dual purpose: celebrating the trailblazing people who have advanced women’s rights and reflecting on the remaining work needed to deliver full equality and opportunity to women and girls worldwide. The U.S. Department of State denotes this day of importance through the International Women of Courage (IWOC) Award, an annual recognition of international women leaders who have demonstrated tremendous courage and leadership to advance peace, equality, and human rights.  For over ten years, Meridian International Center has partnered with the U.S....

Oksana Kovalenko is an alumna of the International Visitor Leadership Program and a 2023 recipient of the IVLP Impact Awards for her project The School for Future Leaders. Meridian International Center, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, implements the IVLP Impact Awards Initiative. IVLP Impact Awardees from across the world administer community impact projects that build on their experiences and promote innovative solutions to shared challenges. The IVLP Impact Awards Initiative aims to engage alumni, strengthen global networks, and support lasting community impact. Collaborating with Like-Minded People I work as the Deputy Dean...

Betty Nancy Fonyuy is an alumna of the International Visitor Leadership Program and a 2023 recipient of the IVLP Impact Awards for her project Advocacy Role of Youth in Human Rights & Rights of Persons Living with Disabilities. Meridian International Center, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, implements the IVLP Impact Awards Initiative. IVLP Impact Awardees from across the world administer community impact projects that build on their experiences and promote innovative solutions to shared challenges. The IVLP Impact Awards Initiative aims to engage alumni, strengthen global networks, and support lasting community...

Awiye Sharon Serkwem Evanjo  is an alumna of the International Visitor Leadership Program and a 2023 recipient of the IVLP Impact Awards for her project Rebuilding Hopes and Dreams of Internally Displaced Women. Meridian International Center, in partnership with the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, implements the IVLP Impact Awards Initiative. IVLP Impact Awardees from across the world administer community impact projects that build on their experiences and promote innovative solutions to shared challenges. The IVLP Impact Awards Initiative aims to engage alumni, strengthen global networks, and support lasting community impact. Inclusive Leadership and Inspiration I...