Mentoring Future Journalists

IVLP Alumni L-R Lydia Samson and Evelyn Onyilo

One of the founding fathers of the United States and principal author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, stated, “Our liberty cannot be guarded but by the freedom of the press, nor that be limited without danger of losing it.” This quote underscores the role of the press in the development of a healthy democratic process. To encourage young people to aspire for a successful career in journalism, the Abuja chapter of International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) Alumni Association organized a mentoring program for young Nigerians at the U.S. Embassy. Media personalities, who benefited from the IVLP, including distinguished journalists Evelyn Onyilo and Lydia Samson, led the conversation.

“To Kill a Mockingbird”

Every month, students and staff of EducationUSA Advising Center Abuja select, read, and meet to discuss a particular book. The book for the month of March was To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. The Pulitzer Prize winning book is one of the books recommended for college-bound students in the United States. A coming-of-age novel, it borders around the reasoning behind human behavior, innocence, justice systems, and racial issues.

Haute Hijab

Growing up in Detroit, Michigan to immigrant parents, Melanie Elturk found it challenging at times to fuse her Islamic culture with Midwestern American norms.  “Try finding a long sleeve shirt in a store during the summer in the United States.  It can be difficult to dress modestly,” she shared.  As an adult, she wanted to support young Muslim girls in their desire to fully identify as Muslim and American.  Her desire gave birth to Haute Hijab.

Non- Immigrant Visas: The Consular Officer’s Perspective

My colleagues and I are very aware of the stress and preparation that applicants go through before their non-immigrant visa interview.  We interact with applicants at outreach events and through Internet-based communication tools.  However, the applicants do not have a chance to view the process through our perspective and in an attempt to correct some of the misinformation that has infiltrated the Internet, here is my perspective on the U.S. visa application process.

“I Have a Dream” Through the Eyes of Abuja Students

High schools students in Abuja were tasked with interpreting the famous “I Have a Dream” speech by Martin Luther King as part of activities celebrating his life.  And they did it with a bang.  The students drawn from ten high schools in the federal capital put up various performances to showcase their talent.