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.
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.
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.
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.
Kimia Anousheh is a young activist committed to positive social change and to motivating others to join her in that mission. She participated in the Benjamin Franklin Transatlantic Fellows Program (BFTP) through the U.S. Embassy in Belgium.
Julie Foulon believes access to new technologies and entrepreneurial opportunities empowers all members of a community. She participated in the International Visitors Leadership Program through the US 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.
For Sarah Avci, the arts are a powerful tool for supporting underprivileged women with positive and meaningful experiences. She participated in the IVLP KARAMAH Leadership Exchange Course through the U.S. Embassy in Belgium.
Television journalist Steven Decraene believes that accurate and in-depth reporting helps the public understand and learn from complex global events. He has participated in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) through the U.S. 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.
Study of the U.S. Institutes for Scholars (SUSIs) and Secondary Educators are post-graduate level academic programs. The institutes consist of a 4-5 week academic residency and a 1-2 week educational study tour to a different region of the United States.
Alumni of U.S. Government-sponsored exchange programs are invited to propose innovative projects, for which they many receive grants.
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.