What
A week-long immersive experience that inspires and empowers young Iranian Americans to become civic leaders. This competitive program will introduce students to the important topic of civic participation through dialogue, engagement, and experiences including meeting with elected officials, experts, and leaders. The Summer Summit will create a space for participants to build a community of highly motivated and accomplished peers bonded by their shared identity.
When
July 9 - 15, 2023
Who
Current high school students who identify as Iranian American
Where
Washington, D.C. (American University)
Application Requirements
All applicants must be current high school students as of March 2023. The application requires a resume and a short essay to demonstrate an interest in civic participation.
Applications for the Civic Leaders Summit 2023 are due by April 7th.
Cost
Cost: $1,500
Travel: Attendees are responsible for travel to Washington, D.C.
Financial Aid: Financial assistance is readily available, please contact layla.sharaf@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.
