The Application for The Penn Kemble Fellowship (2024-2025) is open now!!!
The Penn Kemble Forum on Democracy promotes bipartisan conversation among young foreign policy leaders in Washington, DC. The Forum provides an opportunity for participants to share ideas across sectors and explore the role of democracy and human rights within the context of a broad range of policy questions. Monthly off-the-record dinner conversations are led by foreign policy experts, government officials (past and present), and democracy practitioners. Notable speakers have included Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad, Dr. Francis Fukuyama, and Azar Nafisi.
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The Forum is named in honor of Richard “Penn” Kemble, a committed activist and strategist in the democracy movement who passed away in October 2005. Kemble’s political journey included roles in the young socialist and civil rights movements and the U.S. labor movement. He served as deputy and acting director of the United States Information Agency and was appointed as U.S. Representative to the Community of Democracies and later led an investigation into slavery and human trafficking in Sudan.
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The Forum encourages applications from a diverse group of young professionals, including those from Capitol Hill, security-focused roles, journalism, the private sector, and democracy and development practitioners. No prior democracy experience is required. Organized and sponsored by the National Endowment for Democracy with the assistance of a distinguished advisory committee of scholars and practitioners, the program is highly competitive, with only 30 fellowship positions available.
Successful applicants are expected to attend monthly discussions held after working hours, typically on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays. While participation in additional events and meetings with Penn Kemble Forum alumni and NED staff, as well as social events, is optional, fellows must consider their professional and personal commitments to ensure they can fully engage in the program. The monthly discussions are held in person to facilitate meaningful interaction among fellows and speakers.
Location:
United StatesBenefits
Here are some of the benefits of the Penn Kemble Forum Fellowship:
- Direct interaction with renowned experts: The description mentions past speakers like Dr. Francis Fukuyama, a prominent political philosopher. This suggests fellows gain access to high-caliber figures in foreign policy.
- Building a network with future leaders: The program brings together young professionals from various sectors, fostering connections that can be valuable throughout your career.
- In-depth exploration of democracy and human rights: Monthly discussions delve into complex issues, providing a deeper understanding of these critical topics.
- Exposure to diverse perspectives: Fellows from government, NGOs, media, and the private sector offer varied viewpoints, enriching the learning experience.
- Development of critical thinking and communication: Engaging in off-the-record discussions encourages fellows to analyze information, formulate arguments, and communicate effectively.
Eligibilities
Read the application requirements of the Penn Kemble Forum Fellowship below:
- Applicants must be based in the Washington, DC region.
- Fellows must have 5-10 years of professional experience in international affairs, foreign policy, or national security (internships or academic studies do not qualify).
- Fellows must be available to attend a mandatory Saturday morning retreat on September 21, 2024.
- Fellows must be available to attend monthly off-work-hour discussions (usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays) and are expected to attend at least two-thirds of these sessions.
- Due to the program’s competitive nature (limited to 30 positions), strong consideration will be given to applicants who can demonstrate their ability to fully participate in the program given their professional and personal commitments.
Application Process
Applicants are asked to complete the application form, which includes the following required documents:
- Current resume;
- A statement of interest (500 words maximum) describing how the applicant will contribute to and benefit from the Forum;
- Letter of recommendation from a current or former employer, manager, mentor, or academic supervisor detailing the applicant’s intellectual and analytical abilities, international commitment or experience, and personal qualities.
Application Deadline: July 23, 2024
Application ClosedOfficial link
