February 27, 2019

The World Affairs Councils of America is pleased to present two opportunities that arise from our relationship with Liaison America, an international education organization connected to five countries and dedicated to working with young people who want to impact lives and make a change in the world.

Below, we present the first opportunity: Following presentations by outstanding Brazilian high school students visiting the U.S. in Liaison America's "Triple L" Program - both at WACA headquarters and to Council leaders who attended the WACA Breakfast at the Global Ties U.S. National Meeting - we will offer a Liaison America webinar for Council leaders and staff on February 28. This call will provide information for Councils interested in fee-for-service hosting of similar student groups from Brazil in July 2019 and January 2020. It will include information on program goals, administrative responsibilities, logistics, and funding.

Additionally, WACA, in partnership with Liaison America, is offering a 30-day scholarship opportunity for one (1) university student to live and experience Brazil this summer through immersion in the culture, education, and language! More below and full details here.

Liaison America Student Exchange Programs for Councils Conference Call: THURSDAY, FEB. 28, at 2:00 PM ET

WACA will host a webinar led by Liaison America so that Council leaders and program staff can learn more about the opportunity to partner with Liaison America in hosting one of their groups of Brazilian high school students. These are exceptional students with a diverse set of talents who will share their culture and projects during their educational exchange programs in the United States.

Webinar Details

Date: Thursday, February 28

Time: 2:00-3:00 pm ET

Topic: Liaison America High School Exchange Programs - How Councils Can Participate

Tech: Zoom meeting (instructions will be shared following your registration)

Register now! Please contact Drew Lorelli at the WACA National Office, indicating your name, title, Council affiliation, phone number, and whether you attended the WACA Breakfast at Global Ties U.S. last month. Email dlorelli@worldaffairscouncils.org or, if you have any questions, call 202-833-4557.

WACA-Liaison America Scholarship Opportunity

June 2019 in Goiânia, Brazil

Applications Due by March 12

The World Affairs Councils of America is delighted to announce the Liaison America Trent Argo International Scholarship for a 30- day study tour in Brazil for one lucky student ambassador. This scholarship will be an immersive experience in culture, language, education, and international affairs in the city of Goiânia, one of the richest agricultural districts and a key player in the production of sugar, rum, coffee, tobacco, cotton, cattle, hides, and castor oil. Goiânia is located the state of Goiás, where Brasília, the capital of Brazil, is also located. Goiás is a strong, well-structured state that is growing both socially and economically.

The scholarship recipient will have the opportunity to meet with university students, business and government leaders, and others who are making a positive change locally and globally.

This experience will include:

Living Like a Local

·     Be accompanied by a college-aged chaperone

·     Live with a host family (includes accommodations and meals)

·     Take Portuguese language lessons

·     Experience the natural beauty of Brazil’s parks, outdoor recreation, and engage in the culture through food, music, dance, and folklore

Global Learning 

·     Shadow university students studying international affairs or other topics related to the recipient’s area of study

·     Meet with faculty and university international affairs officers and representatives from Education USA

Understanding Government Relations

·     Meet with the Secretary of Education

·     Learn about Brazil’s approach to immigration and border control

·     Learn about the role of the consulates and embassies

·     Discover the political role of agri-business and its impact locally and globally

With this announcement, we welcome submissions including a letter of recommendation. Council leaders: please publicize and share with your local networks and educational partners. We expect to announce the winner on March 22, 2019.

Read all scholarship details here.