Consulate Establishes ‘Young Leaders Bermuda’
The U.S. Consulate has kicked off Young Leaders – Bermuda [YLB], a new networking opportunity for young people who are interested in current events and international relations, among other topics of interest.
YLB is a chapter of Young Leaders United Kingdom [YLUK], an initiative of the U.S. Ambassador to the UK, Matthew Barzun. It is a way to foster and celebrate the special relationship that exists between the United States and Bermuda, as well as between the United States and the UK.
The program was officially launched on January 18, Martin Luther King Day, with a reception at the home of the U.S. Consul General recognizing young Bermuda leaders.
Consul General Mary Ellen Koenig addresses young leaders in Bermuda at a reception on January 18 marking Martin Luther King Day:
Consul General Mary Ellen Koenig explained, “YLB offers members information about programs and opportunities available to them in the United States.
“YLB is a way to connect virtually – with each other, with the U.S. Consulate here in Bermuda and the U.S. Embassy in London, and with people that influence the world today.
“YLB members will also have the opportunity to attend events hosted by the Consulate and connect in real life. There are no expectations of commitments of time – people are free to participate as much or as little as they wish in the activities that interest them.”
So far, a total of 59 young people, including Youth Parliamentarians, school leaders, community volunteers, sports champions, and young entrepreneurs and business people, have joined Young Leaders – Bermuda.
The Consulate welcomes new members between the ages of 16-30 from across Bermuda. Those wishing to join YLB should send an email to youngleadersbermuda@state.gov with the following information: Name, email address, school, NGO, or work affiliation.
As an example of activities available to YLB members, Ambassador Barzun hosts chats with influential Americans on a regular basis and YLB members are invited to participate.
The most recent virtual chat was via conference call on January 27 with Yohannes Abraham, Special Assistant to President Obama and Chief of Staff for the Offices of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs.
Future activities include chats with Facebook Vice President Nicola Mendelsohn and David Plouffe, former Campaign Manager for Barack Obama and current CNN commentator.
The Consulate plans to have a number of programs this year aimed at Young Leaders Bermuda, including a discussion on the upcoming U.S. presidential elections and a discussion on Summer Work Travel opportunities in the United States for young Bermudians.
