Interested in cultural exchange? Apply to be a TechWomen Cultural Mentor by July 1

Since 2011, TechWomen has been facilitating cultural exchange among women from around the world. TechWomen brings emerging women leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) from Africa, Central Asia and the Middle East to the United States for a mentorship and exchange program.

During the five-week program, in addition to working on a project, participants have the opportunity to explore and experience life in the Bay Area. Cultural Mentors help the participants make the most of their time in the Bay Area by showcasing its rich culture, and in return, they can connect with and learn from women representing 19 countries. “Being a cultural mentor is one of the richest experiences in my life,” Jeannice Fairrer Samani, PhD, MBA, said. “Connecting and building life-long relationships with like-minded women from Africa, Central Asia and the Middle East proves how we are more alike than different.”

In the past, Cultural Mentors and participants have toured various institutions, driven up the California coast, visited museums, hosted potlucks and more. This year, the program will take place from September 11 to October 17.

Learn more about Cultural Mentors and apply today! The deadline is July 1, 2016.

Delegation trip to Jordan with mentors and fellows in 2015.

Cultural Mentor Jeannice Ferrier-Samani and Baratang Miya of South Africa at the 2015 Cultural Kickoff.

Cultural Mentors host a potluck with 2015 participants of Central Asia.

Cultural Mentor Kimberly Snyder with 2015 participants from Cameroon – Michele Njiki Djemi, Axelle Tchadjet and Christelle Tchieudjo at the State Department in Washington, D.C.

2014 participants on tour at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Cecilia French of Sierra Leone, Clara Zaiter of Lebanon, Kumba Musa of Sierra Leone, Magdalene Peters of Sierra Leone, Jamillatu Kamara of Sierra Leone and Cultural Mentor Shannon McElyea at the 2015 Community Celebration.