The Youth Leaders program expanded the leadership skills of Latin American youth during a four- week exchange to the United States. Youth Leaders learned about US institutions and culture, shared experiences and knowledge with US peers, visited US schools and organizations, and created community projects to implement in their home countries. 

Youth Leaders met with prominent public oficials and non-governmental organizations and took part in workshops. They lived in home-stays with local volunteer families while they attended trainings and briefings at local organizations, attended school with host family members, participated in community events, and learned about their host state. Throughout, the visiting youth worked closely with US youth to explore issues of common concern and solutions to similar problems in their communities.

Once back in their home countries, Youth Leaders implemented small projects based on the lessons learned during the exchange. They also  shared their experiences with friends and neighbors, creating a multiplier effect. The Youth Leaders program not only provided new knowledge and experience for participants, but also prepared them for a lifetime of leadership and community service.

The program was open to young people from Peru and Venezuela with outstanding school records that displayed leadership qualities, were proficient in both speaking and understanding English, and who had demonstrated interest in improving their local community. All participants visited the U.S. for the first time. They were selected through a competitive process coordinated by the US Embassy and Consulates, and supported by local Partners of the Americas chapters and other local institutions in their home countries.

The Youth Leaders Program was supported by the US Department of State, Bureau of Education and Culture and US Embassies and Consulates in the participating countries.