Author: Deanna Saab

Celebrating Excellence: Tomorrow’s Leader Amjid Khurwat Wins 40under40 Award in Libya

Amjid Khurwat

We are delighted to spotlight the exceptional achievements of Libyan Tomorrow’s Leader alum, Amjid Khurwat, who has recently been honored with the distinguished 40under40 award for his contributions in the realm of scientific communication.

Amjid’s journey began at the American University of Beirut, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in computer science. Since then, he has been an unwavering advocate for scientific communication, founding the Libyan Science Club and assuming a pivotal role in the Anir Digital Safety Initiative’s fact-checking team. His dedication to countering disinformation and promoting fact-based news is both commendable and inspiring.

Amjid

“I have always believed that a country’s ability to access and apply modern science and technology is vital for sustainable social and economic growth,” said Amjid. “Science is not only a body of knowledge, but also a way of thinking, a precise methodology for effective problem-solving. It stands as a shield against blind adherence to ideologies and functions as a tool against rumors and misinformation.”

In addition to his activism, Amjid played a transformative role in education. He organized numerous workshops and training sessions, targeting students at both school and university levels. From enhancing public speaking skills to nurturing the art of creating scientific content, Amjid’s initiatives empowered the next generation of critical thinkers and communicators.

Amjid’s impact extends  beyond educational spaces. He established  Libya’s first science festival, the Al Thuraya Festival, and he took the TEDx Misrata stage in 2017 as a speaker. Furthermore, his involvement with the International Astronomical Union (IAU) showcases his dedication to enriching scientific outreach.

Amjid

T’aazur, in partnership with the Libyan Ministry of Youth, recognized Amjid’s exceptional contributions by awarding him the prestigious 40under40 accolade. Through his career, Amjid has overseen the creation of over 600 scientific articles, solidifying his role as a credible source of knowledge. His advocacy sends a clear message of the importance of logical analysis, critical thinking, and scientific awareness in Libyan society.

“This wouldn’t have been possible without my experience as a Tomorrow’s Leader,” noted Amjid. “As an alumnus, I wholeheartedly express my gratitude to the Tomorrow’s Leaders community for being an integral part of this remarkable journey.”

As we celebrate Amjid’s well-deserved 40under40 award, we invite prospective young leaders to join the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program and forge their own impactful journey. Just as Amjid exemplifies the power of determination and innovation, you too can contribute to positive change. Applications are open until November 30th. Embrace the opportunity and be part of a community dedicated to making a difference through leadership and impact.

Applications Open for the 2024-2025 Tomorrow’s Leaders Program

Two male graduates and one female graduate in cap and gown.

The Tomorrow’s Leaders (TL) Program, sponsored by the Department of State’s U.S.-Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI), is excited to announce the launch of the application process for the 2024-2025 academic year. The application is now open and will close on November 30, 2023. This distinguished program offers a unique opportunity for ambitious and accomplished students from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to cultivate their leadership potential and gain access to an American-style education.

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program offers undergraduate and graduate scholarships for accomplished students who represent the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s cultural, religious, and geographic diversity. The TL Program aims to serve students from socioeconomically underserved backgrounds who demonstrate strong leadership potential but lack the means to obtain an American-style education. The Tomorrow’s Leaders program partners with prominent U.S.-accredited universities in the MENA region to build a diverse and dynamic network of future changemakers. Through the high-quality education provided by our partner institutions—the American University of Beirut, the Lebanese American University, and the American University in Cairo—program participants are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills for leadership at local, regional, and national levels.

The TL Program invites applications from aspiring leaders in Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, West Bank/Gaza, and Yemen. Current high school students, or those who graduated high school in 2023, are eligible to apply for the TL Undergraduate Program. For applicants from Yemen, Syria, Libya, and Iraq, the program considers those who graduated high school in 2021 or 2022.

The Tomorrow’s Leaders Program offers a comprehensive scholarship package that includes:

  • Tuition and enrollment fees (for a maximum period of four academic years for undergraduate students and two academic years for graduate students)
  • University health insurance
  • Entrance visa and residency permit fees
  • Student housing
  • Monthly living stipend when participating in TL activities
  • Textbook allowance
  • Laptop (for use for the duration of the program)
  • Two round-trip tickets to home country, territory, or place of residence per year

Moreover, participants gain access to a wide range of opportunities such as civic leadership and career-oriented workshops, internship placements, faculty mentorship, and guidance. TL Undergraduate students also have the unique chance to study at a university in the United States, while TL Graduate students are given the opportunity to participate in graduate assistantships or research assistantships.

The application process, designed to identify exceptional candidates, includes essay questions, an English language assessment provided by Arizona State University (ASU), transcripts, letters of recommendation, financial documentation, and more. Visit our website at https://www.tomorrowsleadersprogram.org/ to access the application and to learn more about the program. All applications must be submitted online by November 30th, 2023.

Are you ready to embark on a journey that will transform your life and empower you to become a future leader of the MENA region? Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to positive change. Apply for the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program today and become part of a network of influential changemakers. To learn more about the application process and program details, register to attend our free online information session on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 7 PM EEST/12 PM EDT.

Welcoming the Incoming Fall 2023 Cohort of Tomorrow’s Leaders: An Exciting Journey Begins!

Welcome Tomorrow's Leaders!

We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the newest cohort of Tomorrow’s Leaders (TL) Program students from Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Syria, Tunisia, West Bank/Gaza, and Yemen. With students representing diverse backgrounds and cultures, this cohort promises to bring rich perspectives to the TL program.

This year, we are excited to announce that the  Tomorrow’s Leaders Graduate (TLG) Program welcomes 26 students, while the Tomorrow’s Leaders Undergraduate (TLU) Program comprises 52 students. 27 students will be attending the American University of Beirut (AUB), 24 will be joining the American University in Cairo (AUC), and 27 are set to commence their studies at the Lebanese American University (LAU).

Being selected for the Tomorrow’s Leaders Program is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these students. The demanding application process included challenging essay questions, an English assessment provided by Arizona State University (ASU), interview panels with U.S. embassy staff, and more. Selected students demonstrated not only academic excellence and language skills, but also leadership experience and potential. Each student brings with them a range of experiences and backgrounds that align with the program’s goal to serve socioeconomically underserved students with who represent the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s cultural, religious, and geographic diversity.

In preparation for their academic journey, the new cohort of Tomorrow’s Leaders attended pre-departure orientation and leadership training facilitated by FHI 360. These sessions provided a holistic approach to their upcoming educational experience, offering insights into the academic culture of American-style universities and enhancing their leadership skills . In preparation for their travel to Lebanon and Egypt, essential travel logistics were discussed, ensuring a smooth transition to their chosen universities. The pre-departure orientation concluded with an engaging panel led by TL alumni.  They offered valuable advice and encouragement, sharing their own experiences with the new cohort

We couldn’t be more excited to witness the incredible growth, achievements, and positive impact they will undoubtedly bring to their communities, countries, and the world. Here’s to the inspiring journey that lies ahead for the new cohort of remarkable Tomorrow’s Leaders!