“Strength Through Diversity” Young Professionals Leadership Program

"…I believe it is critical that we are developing young leaders who can see across the divide between different ethnicities and cultures. I believe that these young men and women that we have selected for this leadership training program will do a terrific job in setting the example of what can be achieved in promoting understanding between Hispanics, American Jews and Israelis."
Bronx Borough President, Adolfo Carrión, Jr.
speaking on HIYPP, AIFL's new initiative reaching out to Hispanic Americans.

The “Strength Through Diversity” Young Professionals Leadership Program is designed to identify and energize emerging community leaders committed to promoting mutual understanding among New York City’s diverse ethnic populations. In a six month long professional development program participants (ages 25-35) will confront the contemporary issues of multicultural society and work both individually and as a team to effect measurable economic and social change that will make a difference in the lives of the people of New York.

Participants will be selected on a competitive basis from the different ethnic communities throughout the city. Preference will be given to young professionals who have demonstrated leadership qualities through their interest in issues of diversity and who have participated in helping foster greater communication, understanding and cooperation between the city’s ethnic groups.

The program is built around a series of workshops, each focused on a critical aspect of diversity in the context of the challenges and opportunities faced by the city’s different ethnic groups. These workshops will be led by noted political, business and academic leaders. In addition, the program will feature site visits, guest speakers, and team –building activities.

By the program’s end, participants will develop “Diversity Project” that can be implemented within the six months following the program.

The program is offered in collaboration with Cornell University Cooperative Extension-New York City, the New York City Department of Youth and Community Development, the America - Israel Friendship League and the New York Tolerance Center.

For additional information about the program or to learn more about the application and selection process, please contact Kym Pitlor at kpitlor@nyclp.org or log onto www.nyclp.org