The U.S.-Spain Council, and the Fundación Consejo España – EEUU launched the U.S.-Spain Young Leaders Program in 2001 to bring young American leaders to Spain with the goal of familiarizing them with the social, cultural, economic, and political realities of contemporary Spain, and to foster stronger understanding between Spain and the United States.
This trip serves as a wonderful opportunity to engage directly the subject of economic and political US – Spain and US – EU Relations. Past year’s program included visits to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where participants met with Spain’s Secretary of State, open talks with the heads of the International and Economic sections of El Pais Newspaper, luncheons at the Spanish Parliament where they met the heads of both major political parties. Visits to the US Embassy in Madrid, the US Consulate in Barcelona and the headquarters of financial institutions such as Grupo BBVA and CaixaBank.
Young Leaders 2025 Applications Open! Applications will be accepted until January 6th. Click here to access the Application.
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Press Release
2024 United States-Spain Young Leaders Announced – March 13, 2024
2023 United States-Spain Young Leaders Announced – March 21, 2023
2020 United States-Spain Young Leaders Announced – May 27, 2020
2018 Young Leaders Press Release – August 28, 2018
2017 Young Leaders Press Release – October 2, 2017
2014-2015 Young Leaders Program Recap – January 29, 2015
Young Leaders FAQ
The Young Leaders Program is a week-long cultural emersion program that seeks to foster deeper relations between the United States and Spain. A typical day includes a cultural tour and 3-4 forum style meetings with leading Spanish academics, government officials, or corporate leaders. Historically, the program begins in Madrid and then travels to another Spanish city giving participants different geographic perspectives.
No, all program activities occur in English or have translators available. However, an understanding of Spanish greetings and pleasantries demonstrates cultural competence and is encouraged.
The United States – Spain Council will cover travel to and from Spain, lodging, and certain meal events. Participants will be required to cover any additional non-program related activities. As we do not know in advance what meals will be covered prior to finalizing the program’s agenda, participants should plan to pay for one-week of food related expenses.
We have accepted professionals from all arrays of work. What matters is that participants demonstrate leadership in their chosen field and an interest in furthering the US – Spanish bilateral alliance.
We have a strict requirement that all participants must be between 30 – 45.
No any US National, permanent resident, or foreign citizen on a valid US Visa is welcome to apply.
Yes, we have had several past elected officials and government employees. We will provide you a cost breakdown of the program; however, it is your responsibility to check with your individual agency’s ethics requirements.
The United States – Spain Council team does not select participants. Instead, an independent selection committee meets and scores individuals based on a candidate’s leadership history and interest in the United States – Spanish bilateral relationship.
Yes, we expect all participants to be present and attentive at all events. We reserve the right to remove participants from the program at any time.
We require all participants to dress in business attire during program meetings. However, for cultural and meal events casual attire is encouraged.
No, this program is designed for those with limited knowledge of Spain. Although we realize many people have had holidays in Spain, we are referring to professional or academic experience such as a study abroad or a career posting.
