Passport to the Future

AWIU Passport to the
Future Program

The Passport to the Future (“Passport”) program was launched in 2010 to create opportunities for young women aged 14-26 who are interested in international women-to-women learning to engage in research and exploration of global women’s issues. Through international exchange projects, the mission of the program is to introduce and inspire young women pursuing professional careers to build knowledge and cross-cultural understanding of issues that impact women and girls worldwide.

The Passport program incorporates aspects of other AWIU programs (such as the Career Opportunities in International Understanding Symposium and the micro-grants program) while also providing professional skill building, networking, and mentorship. Passport program participants develop international exchange projects that enhance their understanding of the world and gender equality. At the end of the semester-long cycle, the participants present their findings. What started as a small program of five students has now expanded to 20 participants each cycle.

What does a “Passport” receive for participation in the program?

The Passport program provides an opportunity for young women to connect with and receive mentorship from AWIU members and other leading women in international relations. Participants have the opportunity to learn from former Ambassadors, nonprofit leaders, and business professionals. All mentors are seasoned in their field, are a wealth of resources, and are eager to mentor program participants. The program also provides opportunities for increased intercultural communication competencies and career development through carefully designed learning forums, such as intercultural awareness, interviewing skills, and networking strategies.

Participants have the unique chance to engage with an International Woman of Courage, a global micro-grant recipient, or an AWIU member, to undertake a project that will deliver actionable results. Past projects have included social media campaigns for women in agriculture programs in Uganda, research on women’s political participation in Liberia, and interviews with former US Ambassador Eunice Reddick who demystified the career trajectory towards international diplomacy.