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“I learned so much about the political climate and the separation of power between the president, governors, senators and congressmen. I always assumed the president controlled all the states.”

~ Suhaiw Mugabi, a visitor from Ethiopia on a 2017 program about Investigative Journalism

A great tragedy has befallen the country of Lebanon and its people, as Beirut was rocked by an explosion on August 4th, 2020 that has killed more than 100 people and left thousands injured and devastated in the wake of its destruction.

Our hearts go out to everyone in Beirut. We are relieved to share that the family of IVCLA board member Wafa Hoballah, who is originally from Beirut, was not injured in the blast, however many of their homes were damaged. This blast, on top of the critical COVID-19 situation, and the collapse of the economy is an unbelievable toll on the people of Lebanon. The Los Angeles/Beirut Sister Cities has established a relief fund through the American University of Beirut Medical Center (AUBMC) which will help provide supplies and other needs for the institution to assist the community. We also ask that you please share this message and donation link with your family and friends, so that we may garner as much support and relief as possible for those affected by this calamity.

This year is IVCLA's 40th Anniversary, and it also marks the 80^th Anniversary of the U.S. Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program's (IVLP) which is the primary program IVCLA coordinates. The theme of the IVLP Anniversary celebration is #FacesofExchange. Throughout 2020 this initiative will be recognizing 80 outstanding IVLP alumni. We are pleased to share two of IVCLA’s alumni who have been recognized for this honor.

Nisha Ayub is a prominent advocate for transgender rights and has co-founded two nonprofits in Malaysia that advocate for social justice. Justice for Sisters raises public awareness about issues surrounding violence and persecution against the transgender community in Malaysia and provides legal defense funds to assist those facing prosecution. The SEED Foundation's mission is to empower people who are socially excluded in Malaysia by providing access to a safe space and linking people to resources that will improve quality of life for all.

Nisha has received several awards for her activism, including Human Rights Watch's Alison Des Forges Award for Extraordinary Activism in 2015 for her opposition to discriminatory Malaysian laws. She was also a recipient of the U.S. Secretary of State’s 2016 International Women of Courage Award (IWOC). This award honors women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in acting to improve the lives of others, from families to communities to countries. In 2016, IVCLA welcomed the IWOC recipients to L.A. and held an inspiring speaker session to hear from Nisha and three other recipients of this prestigious award.

Nisha gives credit to the IVLP for enabling her to engage with Malaysian politicians and inspiring her to advocate more publicly for human rights. Following her visit to the United States, Nisha founded the first support home in Malaysia specifically for individuals who identify as transgender, funded with donations. As one of Malaysia’s most prominent transgender activists, Nisha is changing the world with her advocacy and continues her steadfast fight for equality.

Anouk Vos came to Los Angeles in October 2017 for the first #HiddenNoMore IVLP. Inspired by the film, Hidden Figures about the Black female scientists, mathematicians, and engineers of NASA, #HiddenNoMore recognizes over 50 women from around the world in the fields of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) each year. Anouk works as a cyber security and innovation leader at a Dutch consulting firm focusing on high-tech issues. In addition, she serves as chair and co-founder of Cyberworkplace, a nonprofit in Rotterdam, dedicated to helping vulnerable youth develop the skills they need for finding cybersecurity positions, internships, and training.

Anouk's Los Angeles IVLP included meetings with representatives from UCLA's Women in Technology, the California Science Center and Studio School Los Angeles. During her IVLP in Albuquerque, Anouk met with Cultivating Coders and now collaborates with them. Together, the two organizations created an in-depth ethical hacking course called "Cyberheroes," which brought American students to the Netherlands to learn about cybersecurity best practices. They are working on several follow-up projects to train additional trainers and students from New Mexico and increase their impact in Albuquerque and with youth from the surrounding Navajo nation.

Anouk has won multiple awards, including the Lof Spotlight Prize for Female Leadership in 2015 and was voted one of the 50 most influential women in cyber security by SC Magazine.

In November 2019, Manisha Dwa came to Los Angeles as part of the #HiddenNoMore: Empowering Women Leaders in STEM program. While in L.A., Manisha had meetings at Caltech's Center for Autonomous Systems and Technologies and Bruce Murray Laboratory for Planetary Visualization and the California Science Center, along with special presentations from Studio School Los Angeles, the Gina Davis Institute on Gender in Media and The Walt Disney Company.

Manisha shared, "COVID has really been a tough challenge, not just for me but for the whole world. In Nepal, we have had to obey lockdown orders since March. As the latest rule, almost every business is allowed to run except the educational institutions and schools - and that's where the main focus of my business is." 

Manisha works at the Nepal Astronomical Society (NASO), an organization that runs education and outreach activities in government schools to increase student interest in science, particularly astronomy and space science. She designs courses ranging from elementary school level to researchers at the university level in order to foster scientific excitement and knowledge in children. "My team and I have been keeping ourselves, as well as other STEAM education enthusiasts, engaged with whatever resources we have." Manisha also shared that Nepal had an eclipse during the lockdown. "[Nepal] experienced a Bolide outburst that made major headlines and brought fear to the citizens, as people believe in superstitions. So although the country was under lockdown, we were busier than ever. For the first two and a half months, we were completely running virtual classes. Talks from experts on various astronomical and space science were run during that time. I even talked personally as a guest on different platforms. The main idea I wanted young people to listen and think for was surviving this hard time and using this moment to learn things that one might not be able to learn during regular life schedules." 

Inspired by her IVLP, Manisha has been using this time to start new projects. “I have started to create videos in Nepali on popular astronomy and DIY's that Nepali students find hard to understand in other languages. I have also made a strong approach to collaborate with the media by making science-related news (particularly about astronomy and celestial phenomena).” 

Two Minutes with... Board Member Selma Holo

We are pleased to provide the fourth in our series of interviews with the IVCLA Board of Directors. In the coming months we look forward to providing candid conversations with each Director. This month we talk with one of IVCLA's newest board members Selma Holo, Executive Director of USC Museums, Full Professor of Art History and Director of the International Museum Institute at USC, and author of numerous books.

SH: I have spent a lifetime trying to get “out of my own skin” to learn and understand what motivates others to think and live as they do.

SH: Although each and every one of these issues is fascinating and important to me, I suppose that, because of my background, I can be most useful to IVCLA in the areas of culture and the arts. It is through the arts that people can express themselves most intimately and most profoundly. And, it is through the prism of the arts that we can understand human ideals and aspirations.

Sharing those ideals through the arts is sometimes (not always) a safer route for people to express themselves. As L.A. is a cosmopolis and as I know most of the players, it would be thrilling to connect people who can expand their empathy, their sense of beauty and meaning-making. But I am also deeply interested in the topic of women in leadership, and, although I know nothing about human trafficking, it is something that I would also be eager to help with whenever possible.

SH: My strengths are the arts and culture, and I would introduce them to the most exciting museums and cultural spaces. But, remembering that I have all of USC at my disposal, I could be helpful in the area of sustainability. I would also insist on time at the Shoah Foundation, USC’s foundation dedicated to eradicating hate through testimony and storytelling.

SH: My most rewarding experiences traveling in other countries have been when I have gone back for second and third visits. For example, I visited Spain when I was in my 20's and Franco was in his full dictatorship. When I received my senior Fulbright award and I was able to go back for a full year. That was when I really learned and came to understand so much about that country.

I think that Fulbright year was so rewarding precisely because I had been there during the dictatorship, and now Spain was in its full transition to democracy. It was thrilling to see Spain’s progress unfolding. I made lasting friendships and wrote my book, Beyond the Prado, Museums and Identity in Democratic Spain. I have had similar experiences in Mexico and France. I call it the “second time around” syndrome.

SH: I was charmed by these celadon cups and saucers when I saw them at a museum store in South Korea about a dozen years ago.

Not only are they beautiful, but they are so clever! The lid keeps the tea hot, but when that lid is removed it can be a teensy bowl. In the meantime, you also have a small plate for snacks.

I have no idea if these objects are meant to be used like this, but they have become treasured objects that bring to mind the inspiring creativity of people far from home.

SH: I think I would like to explore Japan more. I have been there two times already on very specific projects. It is a complex country that I would like to disentangle a little and understand better.

I would also like to further explore Israel. Again, I have been there, mostly studying art and artists. There is so much more to that country and I would especially love to be involved in something that advanced understanding and peace.

SH: I imagine that, if I ever travel again (due to COVID-19,) it would be to Mexico, where I would renew friendships and serve as an emissary for cultural understanding, which is especially crucial in the light of how our government has treated Mexico. People-to-people diplomacy is more important now than ever!

SH: It is simple for me: We are not our government. Most Americans are curious and respectful and polite and kind. We love to share knowledge, and we value allies and friends.

In February, IVCLA was beginning to arrange home-stay hosts and prepare the professional program for five Russian journalists on an Open World program on the topic of Media Literacy. They were to come to Los Angeles for a week in April, but we all know how those plans were ended. Last month IVCLA’s Director of International Programs Natalia Lvovich and CEO Janet Elliott had the opportunity to virtually meet the participants and discuss their eventual trip to L.A. next year. As it was to be the first visit to the L.A. area for them all, they had questions about the weather, dress codes and the food. Of course we had no problem assuring them they would love the weather, the vast food selections and the Southern California culture without strict dress codes. Media Literacy is a timely topic for this group of visitors and Natalia shared with them what their program will include, and they had the chance to hear from one of the resources they will likely meet when they are finally able to come. Tessa Jolls, CEO of the Center for Media Literacy, spoke with them about the important programs the Center administers and a lively discussion with lots of questions followed.

Virtual meetings certainly can’t replace the in-person experience, but it provided a wonderful opportunity to get to know a little about the participants. We are now looking forward to preparing an interesting professional program and wonderful cultural experience when their trip to Los Angeles can be safely planned in 2021.

The first World Fair was held in London in 1851 and over the decades they have introduced new innovations such as the x-ray machine, the ice cream cone and the mobile phone to the public, as well as creating architectural wonders, many which remain today as national icons, such as the St. Louis Gateway Arch, Paris’ Eiffel Tower, the Seattle Space Needle, and the Biosphere in Montreal. Taking place every five years in cities around the world, they are now known as World Expos and remain huge global attractions. Since the late 1990’s when the U.S. Congress passed legislation prohibiting federal funding for World Expos and the U.S. withdrew from the Bureau of International Expositions (the organization that has officially sanctioned World Expos since 1928) the U.S. interest for World Expos has waned. But thanks to a gift from the United Arab Emirates the U.S. will be participating as one of the 192 countries hosting pavilions at Expo 2020 Dubai, and you have a chance to get involved! As part of the Global Ties U.S. network, IVCLA is honored to be participating in the preparations for the U.S. Pavilion - Faces of America. IVCLA will assist in recruiting a diverse group of Angelenos between the ages of 18 and 29 to serve as Youth Ambassadors, and in nominating Cultural Performers, who will perform and interact with visitors at the Pavilion. (The Expo was originally scheduled to begin October 2020 but due to the pandemic was rescheduled for October 2021 through March 2022. Although rescheduled to begin next year, the Expo officially retains the name Expo 2020 Dubai.) 

Sharing ideas and building understanding between nations and peoples is an important component of World Expos. The theme for the Expo in Dubai is Connecting Minds, Creating the Future. The Youth Ambassadors and Cultural Performers will play a major role in providing the human connections to build a better understanding about the United States. A total of 75 Youth Ambassadors and 390 Cultural Performers, who may be individuals or groups, will be selected from across the U.S. The selection process for Cultural Performers, both grassroots and semi-professional talent, will begin in mid-September. More details will be provided the beginning of September.

The selection process for Youth Ambassadors will take place between now and February 26, 2021 with final selections made in May 2021. Youth Ambassadors, who will serve as guides and cultural ambassadors at the U.S. Pavilion, must be U.S. citizens ages 18-29. They will provide a human connection to the United States and its territories, reflecting our geographic and cultural diversity. Youth Ambassadors must be energetic, friendly, and people-oriented, as they will serve as the face of America to millions of Expo visitors. Although not required, the ideal Youth Ambassador would be multilingual in English and another language. The following languages may be particularly useful: Arabic, Mandarin, Farsi, Hindi, Russian, Urdu, Bengali, French, or Spanish. All applications will be reviewed, regardless of language skills.

Serving as a Youth Ambassador is a volunteer opportunity, there is no paid salary. However airfare, housing, and a $300 weekly per diem will be provided. Those selected will be assigned to one of three timelines:

Full Term: September 16, 2021 - April 2, 2022

Fall Term: September 16, 2021 - January 16, 2022

Spring Term: January 8, 2022 - April 2, 2022

If you are interested in submitting an application to serve as a Youth Ambassador contact Janet Elliott at jelliott@ivcla.org for more details. IVCLA will not make the final selections but will recommend Youth Ambassador candidates to Global Ties U.S.

For the past 80 years, the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) has connected current and emerging leaders from around the world to the United States through short-term exchanges. The 80^th anniversary brings forth unexpected innovation - virtual programming is on the horizon.

IVLP Virtual allows us to provide engagement with contacts our embassies have deemed important to the State Department’s foreign policy goals until we are able to resume in-person programming. We are excited to implement programs that will continue to introduce International Visitors to their professional counterparts in the public and private sectors and to offer a way to engage with American society, history, and culture. Virtual programs will offer a peek into what is best about America and where there is room to grow, and will begin to build the foundation for a longer-term, mutually beneficial relationship.

Former IVCLA Board Member Cecile Munoz recently launched her new podcast Ends with Z. She has been working on the podcast for the past three months, but it is something she has been building for her entire career. Cecile explains, “My purpose is to take the tens of thousands of conversations I have had with our nation’s, and in many cases the world’s, top leaders and experts and share the insights they have afforded me. What makes them thrive, overcome, propel forward against adversity, what humbles them and what scares them. Distilling these conversations and adding the perspectives gained from almost three decades of studying human behavior is the basis of the podcast.” Cecile has been an avid supporter of IVCLA’s work over the years, often helping to sponsor events that bring IVCLA international influencers together with our local communities to share insights on solving some of the world’s toughest issues.

You can visit and download her podcast at www.endswithz.com or you can listen to it on iTunes, Stitcher, Google Play, or Spotify.

The Los Angeles region is fortunate to have a dynamic Consular Corps from 102 countries, which includes 65 career and 37 honorary consulate representatives. Cities play an important role in international diplomacy, which is especially important during these turbulent times we are living through.

Mayor Garcetti met with representatives of the L.A. Consular Corps and international partners on July 20^th to provide updates on the COVID-19 response, racial justice reform efforts, and to show his appreciation for the outpouring of donations of PPE and funds to the Angeleno Campaign from the international community. Over 80 representatives of the Consular Corps, as well as trade and cultural offices, joined the meeting.

Join the Chamber of Commerce as they celebrate World Trade Week virtually! On Tuesday, September 22, Kimberly Reed, President and Chair of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), will join prominent business, government and civic leaders for the Chamber’s first Virtual World Trade Week (WTW) Southern California event, traditionally one of the biggest celebrations of international trade in the nation. Chair Reed has been recognized as Washingtonian's "Most Powerful Women in Washington" and one of the top "100 Women Leaders in STEM".  In addition to exciting and unique online networking opportunities and virtual exhibits, the program will also feature an expert panel of industry leaders as they share insights on cybersecurity in a post-COVID world and how companies can remain competitive in an increasingly complex and competitive business environment. The program will also recognize 2020 Stanley T. Olafson Bronze Plaque recipient Vincent Iacopella, EVP Growth and Strategy, Alba Wheels Up International Inc.

The U.S. Constitution requires a census be taken every 10 years to count all people living in the U.S. and its five territories, whether they are U.S. citizens or not. The end date for the census is September 30^th. It only takes a few minutes and it has never been easier to complete the Census. You can fill it out online, over the phone or by mail. It is important for us all. A complete and accurate count is critical for your family and our community! The results of the 2020 Census will affect how our communities are funded, our number of congressional representation, and more. By filling out the census you are helping determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year!

The IVCLA staff and board send good thoughts to all our members and friends. Although our work creating people-to-people connections isn’t possible right now, we look forward to hosting more international visitors as soon as it’s safe. We can all do our part to lend moral support to others, not only in Los Angeles, but around the world. If you have made connections with IVCLA International Visitors over the years, now is a good time to reach out to see how they are doing. This unprecedented global crisis can only be solved by coming together to share all of our knowledge, expertise, and goodwill. We are stronger together!      

An informative, infographic global report of the COVID-19 data is HERE

Check out the volunteer opportunities in Los Angeles HERE

Free COVID-19 Testing Available for Eligible Angelenos HERE

In-person IVLP has been postponed until January 2021, and our other exchange programs have been postponed until further notice. We look forward to welcoming more remarkable visitors from around the world as soon as it is safe. In the meantime, as the entire world struggles through this crisis together, IVCLA is reaching out to international alumni and we welcome suggestions to highlight in our newsletter. If you would like to recommend a visitor you have stayed in touch with, please contact Janet Elliott at jelliott@ivcla.org.