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Creating international connections
Cultivating local innovation
Activating global potential
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September 2023
CITIZEN DIPLOMACY NEWS
Expand Your World Today
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In this Issue...
- Quote of the Month
- Photo of the Month
- Summer Mixer
- Sharing a Global Perspective
- ICDLA Alumni Insights
- Upcoming International Programs
- Are you a U.S. Citizen Exchange Alumni?
- Community Events
- International Opportunities
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Click the button below to check out our past newsletters: | |
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“I was wondering how US-being multi-racial was able to hold on to its unity and maintain basic freedom of expression. My perception and thinking changed because the founders understood clearly individual rights and freedoms. They put them into a constitution which is strongly guarded.”
~A visitor from South Sudan in June 2023, for the Regional Project for the Near East 'Engaging Youth Through Performing Arts'
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IVLP participants from the Kyrgyz Republic attended Hollywood Bowl while visiting for the project 'Public-private Partnerships for Sustainable Urban Infrastructure Development'. | | |
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On the evening of August 24th, ICDLA hosted a unique gathering that celebrated diversity, collaboration, and international understanding. In collaboration with the Omni Hotel L.A. ICDLA warmly welcomed IVLP visitors from Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Germany, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama, and Peru.
Our annual Summer Mixer offered attendees a chance to mingle over drinks and hors d'oeuvres at the Omni's Noé Patio. A lively exchange of international perspectives filled the air, symbolizing our dedication to global dialogue. We warmly welcomed our distinguished guests, embracing the opportunity to share insights and build bridges between cultures.
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Special guests from D.C. with the IVLP visitors from Germany on the project 'Innovation in the U.S. Energy and Transportation Sectors'. | |
During their time in L.A., IVLP visitors explored innovative energy techs like hydrogen power and e-mobility, along with how energy policies are shaped in the U.S. They connected with key players in the Energy and Transportation Sectors, gearing up for impactful work back home, including business opportunities in the European market. | |
Special guests from D.C. with the IVLP visitors on the regional project for the West Hemisphere 'Migration in the Americas'. | |
Meanwhile, the second group focused on crucial aspects like national security, preventing trafficking, and supporting migrants. They examined refugee processing, private sector efforts, and international cooperation initiatives. This trip gave them valuable insights and connections to enhance their work back home. | |
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Janet Elliott, President and CEO of ICDLA (center) with community leaders
Joanne and Alan Kumamoto, who have been ICDLA members for 25 years.
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The Summer Mixer provided a unique platform for great conversations, illustrating our commitment to promoting international understanding. As the echoes of discussions fade, the lasting bonds formed at the event will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for continued collaboration and cross-cultural growth. | |
Sharing a Global Perspective | |
Fostering International Collaboration in Urban Healthcare | |
IVLP visitors from Palestine with Dr. Heidi Behforouz, Chief Medical Officer at LA County Housing for Health, and Kristina Yucel, Communications and Events Coordinator at ICDLA. | |
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We are excited to share an interesting highlight of global knowledge exchange which focused on 'Hospital Administration' for the IVLP visitors from Palestine, offering an insightful exploration of urban healthcare dynamics.
We're grateful to Dr. Heidi Behforouz and the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services for their remarkable contributions and hospitality. Dr. Behforouz provided a thorough exploration of the advanced 'Housing for Health' initiative. This program underscores mobile medical units as a responsive approach to cater to the healthcare needs of unhoused people, providing a wide spectrum of medical services.
The conversation covered critical subjects, including fair distribution of healthcare services, community participation, the symbiotic relationship between healthcare and societal challenges, and the collaborative synergy between healthcare providers and local stakeholders.
The dialogue sparked by this meeting offered profound insights into addressing urban healthcare challenges globally. It underlined the importance of collaboration, innovation, and empathy in creating sustainable solutions for vulnerable populations.
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Exploring LA with IVLP Visitors: A Trio of Unique Experiences | |
IVLP visitors from Japan with Jonathan Kaji, ICDLA Board Member, and Torrance City Mayor George Chen. | |
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Connecting Over Lunch: Conversations Beyond Borders
Torrance City Councilman and ICDLA Board Member, Jonathan Kaji, hosted an engaging luncheon for the IVLP visitors along with distinguished guests Torrance City Mayor George Chen, Ray Uchima, Mark Tsuneishi, and Greg Nakahira. Discussions centered around the intricate challenges of accommodating American military facilities in Japan. The visitors remarked that they lacked awareness of the role of Japanese-Americans, in the U.S., Society, Government, and Economy, and obtaining information 1st hand from Japanese-Americans was enlightening.
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IVLP visitors from Japan with Chris Pimentel, El Segundo Mayor Pro Tem, Darrel George, El Segundo City Manager, Col. Mia Walsh, and CMSgt Sarah R.L. Morgan. | |
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Journey into Space Innovation: Los Angeles Air Force Base
Our IVLP visitors explored the world of space innovation at the Los Angeles Air Force Base (LAAFB). This experience underscored the transformative potential of international collaboration in Base-Hosting Community Leadership Development.
Baseball Excitement: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Cincinnati Reds
From technological wonders to sporting excitement. Cheers from the crowd, bat hitting the ball – everyone had a blast at a great baseball game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Cincinnati Reds. Dodger Stadium turned American traditions into real fun!
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Empowering Global Connections: IVLP Participant's Journey in L.A. | |
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At International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles, we find great joy in facilitating life-changing experiences for participants from all over the world through the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). Youseline Vital from Haiti, an artist, and a dedicated advocate for women's empowerment, recently shared her profound feedback on her journey with us.
Youseline had the opportunity to visit Los Angeles, as part of the IVLP 'Women and Entrepreneurship', a regional project for Africa and Haiti. She joined this program with the purpose of finding the answers to her questions on entrepreneurship, leadership, development, and corporate empowerment and to take examples of the influence and impact of women-owned businesses on the American economy.
Throughout her journey, Youseline found herself among a diverse group of participants from France, Ghana, Haiti, Lesotho, Niger, Nigeria, Tunisia, and Uganda. Together, they engaged in meaningful discussions, sharing personal experiences, and visions, and appreciating their differences. As barriers of stereotypes fell away, they formed a strong community of ten women united by their entrepreneurial vision and shared success.
This transformative experience opened Youseline’s heart to the power of connecting with others and embracing diversity as an act of love and passion. The IVLP program not only left her with new friends, collaborators, mentors, and colleagues but also lit a flame of unity among like-minded changemakers.
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Youseline’s time in Los Angeles was filled with remarkable encounters and inspiring visits to various organizations. Visiting UCLA and Startup UCLA introduced her to the importance of integrating entrepreneurship into educational institutions, providing a path for aspiring entrepreneurs.
“The Watts Labor Community Action Committee (WLCAC), I think we should research the strategy used by Tim Watkins and then apply it in certain areas in Haiti. It will be an asset for urban and rural development, infrastructure, and cultural and economic leadership of disadvantaged neighborhoods that are mainly affected by gangs. WLCAC's Mudtown Farms is a development model to follow.”, she kindly shared with us.
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Los Angeles captivated Youseline Vital, leaving her with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of purpose. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of the IVLP and the impact of cultural exchange in fostering understanding, collaboration, and global connections.
At ICDLA, we remain committed to empowering changemakers like Youseline, and we are inspired by her dedication to making a difference in the world. Join us in celebrating the journeys of all our IVLP participants, whose stories represent the spirit of citizen diplomacy and its capacity to create a brighter, interconnected future for all.
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Upcoming International Programs | |
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The following are international guests of the U.S. government and other diplomatic organizations whose professional appointments in Los Angeles will be arranged by
International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles
SEPTEMBER 2023
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| Sept 16 - 21: Women and Entrepreneurship | Chad | | Sept 29 - Oct 4: Women Leaders -Promoting Peace and Security | ASEAN (Indonesia), Brunei, Cambodia, Fiji, India, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka | | Sept 30 - Oct 4: U.S. STEM Schools and AP Curriculum | Thailand | | |
ICDLA knows it is important to maintain our connections with our international visitors beyond their programs. As such, ICDLA continues to reach out to our international alumni. If you are an Alumni who would like to share your thoughts about your L.A. experience, or if you are an ICDLA member or resource who has stayed in touch with alumni and would like to share your experience, please contact Kristina Yucel at kyucel@icdla.org. | |
Are you a U.S. Citizen Exchange Alumni? | |
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Did You Participate in a U.S. Government-sponsored Exchange Program?
The Office of Alumni Affairs at the U.S. Department of State is developing new opportunities for U.S. citizens who participated in U.S. government-sponsored exchange programs. ICDLA is assisting by reaching out to our Greater Los Angeles alumni.
- Career Connections Seminar: Sept 23-24, 2023, San Francisco, CA
Save the date for Career Connections San Francisco. Hosted in partnership with Global Ties San Francisco, this in-person event will feature professional development workshops and networking opportunities for U.S. Exchange Alumni. Learn More.
- Career Connections Seminar: Nov 2-4, 2023, Charlotte, NC
Save the date for Career Connections Charlotte. Hosted in partnership with the International House, this in-person event will feature professional development workshops and networking opportunities for U.S. Exchange Alumni. Learn More.
The exchange programs include, but are not limited to, these offered by the ECA Bureau. Returned Peace Corps volunteers and Boren Fellows are also qualified alumni. If you are a past participant in a U.S. government-sponsored exchange program contact Kristina Yucel, kyucel@icdla.org. Whether you participated long ago or you recently completed your exchange program, we will keep you informed of opportunities such as events, programs, and grants.
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The Italian American Museum of Los Angeles (IAMLA) presents the 12th annual Taste of Italy Los Angeles: L.A.’s premiere Italian food and wine event in Downtown Los Angeles on Saturday, September 23.
For one evening the heart of historic Downtown Los Angeles is transformed into a charming Italian Piazza where guests can enjoy:
- The region's best Italian Restaurants
- World Class Wines
- Live Entertainment
- Spectacular Historic Setting
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The largest Mexican film festival outside of Mexico, Hola México Film Festival presented by Toyota, returns for its 15th annual edition on September 29th - October 7th, 2023. The festival gathers more than 10,000 cinephiles to see 21+ films, many of them making their premiers with red-carpet galas attended by the biggest actors and directors in Mexican cinema.
Location: The Montalbán Theater
1615 Vine St, Los Angeles
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International Opportunities | |
Vocational Exchange in Germany | |
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The Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) Vocational Scholarship provides an opportunity for American high school graduating seniors to spend the year after graduation in Germany.
CBYX is ideal for U.S. high school graduates who have demonstrated maturity, and responsibility, and who can be entrusted to fulfill their roles as exchange students without day-to-day supervision. This program offers graduating high school seniors the opportunity to spend their 13th year abroad living with a German host family, participating in a training or school program, and gaining work experience through internships with German companies.
This opportunity offers students a chance to pursue vocational interests, such as:
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• Architecture
• Education
• Veterinary Science
• Information Technology
• International Business
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• Culinary Arts
• Engineering
• Graphic Design
• Health Care
• Forestry
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International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles depends on its members and friends to help support its programs. If you are not an ICDLA Citizen Diplomat, please review our membership benefits here and consider joining. We need your support now more than ever! Please make a contribution today. | |
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Editor: Kristina Yucel
Communications & Events Coordinator
Share your comments with me at kyucel@icdla.org
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© International Citizen Diplomacy of Los Angeles. A non-profit, non-partisan organization. Partial funding provided by the United States Department of State, the County of Los Angeles, and the City of Los Angeles. | Privacy Policy | | | | |
