Farokhzad
Civic Leaders Summit
Looking to Next Summer? Applications for 2026 Open in Fall!
What
The Civic Leaders Summit is a week-long immersive experience designed to inspire and empower young Iranian Americans to become civic leaders. This competitive program introduces students to the importance of civic participation through dialogue, hands-on engagement, and opportunities to meet with elected officials, policy experts, and community leaders. Participants will build a network of highly motivated and accomplished peers, all bonded by their shared identity and commitment to civic leadership.
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​Read about past Summits: 2022, 2023, and 2024 to learn more!
When
Summer 2025 dates: July 13-19
Who
Current high school students who identify as Iranian American.
Students with an interest in civic engagement, leadership, and public service.
Where
Washington, D.C. (American University)
Application Requirements
All applicants must be current high school students. The application requires a resume and two short-response questions to demonstrate applicants interest in civic participation and leadership.
Cost
Cost: 2,200.00
(this covers the cost of room, board, meals, and programming)
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Travel: Attendees are responsible for travel to Washington, D.C.
Financial Aid: Financial assistance is available for those in need, please email CLP Director Masoud Mostajabi at CLP@paaia.org for more information.
Program Outcomes
Participate
Participants will be better equipped to actively participate in government and politics at the national, state, and local levels.
Lead
Participants will be trained in the fundamentals of leadership, helping them inspire others to become change agents in their communities.
Critical Thinking
Participants will have developed essential critical thinking skills and be ready to address current and future political, economic, and social issues facing their community and society-at-large.
Identity
Participants will understand the importance of their Iranian American identity and values and how they can bring their authentic selves to public service.
Programming
Participants will have an opportunity to hear from leaders on critical issues in their communities and the country. The Summer Summit provides direct experience in community organizing and action planning to highlight how leadership intersects with identity, and how young Iranian Americans can lead in their communities.
Program Highlights
Panel discussions with policy and advocacy experts.
Meeting with civic leaders.
Experiential learning activities aligned with the information being presented.
Schedule specifics, including speakers and field trips, will be announced as confirmed.
Counselors & Counselors-in-Training
The Civic Leaders Summit is an immersive leadership experience for high school students, empowering them to become civic leaders. To ensure a successful and enriching program, we are seeking dedicated individuals to serve as Counselors-in-Training (CITs) and Counselors. These leadership positions provide a unique opportunity to mentor young Iranian American students while developing professional skills and expanding your network.
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Counselors-in-Training (CIT)
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Eligibility Requirements:
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Civic Leaders Summit ’22, ’23, ‘24, '25 Alumni
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Graduating high school senior (Class of 2026)
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Pass background check
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Demonstrated responsibility, leadership, and civic-mindedness
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Benefits:
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Leadership experience working with students and program staff
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Resume enhancement through hands-on mentorship and civic engagement
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Build connections within the Iranian American community
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Program Fee: $500 (covers room, board, and programming)
Counselors
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Eligibility Requirements:
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College student, graduate student, or recent graduate (preferred: sophomore year of college or beyond)
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Pass background check
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CPR Certified (or willingness to obtain certification before the program)
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Demonstrated responsibility, leadership, and civic-mindedness
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Benefits:
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$500 stipend for participation
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Leadership experience mentoring students and coordinating programming
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Resume enhancement with hands-on civic engagement experience
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Opportunity to network with policymakers, experts, and fellow Iranian American leaders
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