Get Involved
If you are interested in learning more about IYLEP, please email gcp@austin.utexas.edu.
Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program
Our team has hosted the Iraqi Young Leaders Exchange Program (IYLEP) from 2012-2016, 2018-2019, 2023-2024, and 2026, most recently in partnership with World Learning. The program offers hands-on experiences, including academic sessions, site visits, professional presentations, community service, cultural excursions, leadership training, and professional development workshops. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with community members, civic and business leaders, and students, reflecting Austin’s flourishing ecosystem.
Through these interactions, participants explore issues facing both Austin and the broader U.S., while drawing comparisons to challenges in Iraq. Additionally, participants gain insights into various aspects of U.S. society and culture, broadening their perspectives and fostering mutual understanding and partnership between the U.S. and Iraq.
The greatest lesson Austin gave me is that real leadership transcends borders. It begins with empathy, grows through collaboration, and creates lasting change in every community it touches.Anonymous IYLEP participant, 2026