This is the Belgium of today – and tomorrow – told through individual stories of people who inspire us. Their vision for their country embraces diverse ideas, opinions, cultures, races, genders, languages, and religions. They also share a common experience: participating in a U.S. Embassy-sponsored exchange or grant program.
Hendrikje Meyvis works to provide disadvantaged communities with opportunities to develop their talents and interests. Through a partnership with the U.S. Embassy in Belgium, she launched a program that provides professional development to refugee communities.
Taoufik Amzile applies leadership talents, entrepreneurial experience, and dedication to social change to empower others facing challenges in their professional goals. He has participated in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) through the U.S. Embassy in Belgium.
As a television journalist working on the foreign news desk, Romina Van Camp is dedicated to presenting accurate reporting that encourages audiences to develop informed opinions on world events. She participated in the 2018 International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) through the U.S. Embassy in Belgium.
Youssef Kobo applies his entrepreneurial talents to programs for social action, and in particular, to the empowerment of young leaders. He has participated in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) through the U.S. Embassy in Belgium.
In a March 2019 interview, Sihame El Kaouakibi discussed social entrepreneurship and education as tools for social change. She participated in the 2014 “International Visitors Leadership Program ” (IVLP) sponsored by the U.S. Embassy in Belgium.
As an entrepreneur, Mehdi Benallal dedicates himself to teaching audiences about cultural diversity through promoting live music performances. He has collaborated with the U.S. Embassy in Belgium on cultural outreach programs.
Christophe Gueta views his work as a scenographer, or a designer of museum exhibits, as a dynamic tool for educating young audiences about democratic values – a mission he shares with a frequent collaborator, the U.S. Embassy to Belgium.
Melat Niguisse believes that the arts can empower activists to bring about broad social changes. She participated in the International Visitors Leadership Program through the US Embassy in Belgium.
Each year, the International Writing Program at the University of Iowa offers various programs aiming to connect literary communities overseas with distinguished American writers. Past programs have conferences, reading and study tours, and writing workshops.
The sports visitors programs are sports-themed exchange programs that take place over two weeks. The programs include activities and sessions on nutrition, strength and conditioning, gender equity in sport, Title IX, sport and disability, and team building.
The Fulbright Program is the leading international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government. It is designed to better mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. In addition to exchange programs, competitive, merit-based grants are also awarded annually in most fields of study.
Make it your own story!
Are you someone making a difference in Belgium, just like these people? Then we would love to hear from you! Take a look at our U.S. Embassy programs and see which ones will help you do extraordinary things.