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Our Programs
Everything you need to know about eligibility, what to expect, and how to apply.
Asian Youth Leadership Enrichment
Who It's For
Asian American high school students in Virginia — grades 9 through 12. No prior leadership experience or extracurricular record required. All you need is the willingness to show up and engage.
What You'll Experience
- A structured curriculum exploring cultural identity and personal values
- Leadership workshops led by established Asian American professionals
- Collaborative cross-cultural group projects with peers across Virginia
- One-on-one and group mentorship sessions
- A culminating showcase where participants present their work
- Certificate of completion recognized for college applications
Schedule & Format
The program runs quarterly — four cohorts per year. Sessions are held on weekends to accommodate school schedules. Each cohort spans 6–8 weeks with one session per week.
Apply for This Program
Public Service & Civic Pathways
Who It's For
High school juniors, seniors, and college-bound students who are curious about government, public policy, law, or community organizing. Open to all backgrounds — no political experience needed.
What You'll Experience
- Behind-the-scenes visits to Virginia government institutions
- Guest sessions with elected officials, policy advisors, and community organizers
- Hands-on exposure to how legislation, local government, and advocacy work
- Cross-cultural exchanges with peers from diverse Virginia communities
- Career pathway mapping and guidance on public service routes
- A capstone civic project presented to community stakeholders
Schedule & Format
This program runs in semester-length cohorts — spring and fall. Participants attend bi-weekly sessions, site visits, and one larger immersive event per cohort. Flexible format designed to fit around academic commitments.
Apply for This ProgramFrequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be of Asian descent to participate?
Our programs are designed for Asian and Asian American students, but we welcome all students who are committed to learning about and supporting Asian American communities and civic engagement.
Can I apply to both programs?
Yes. Students are welcome to participate in both the Youth Leadership Enrichment program and the Civic Pathways program, as they serve complementary but distinct purposes.
How competitive is admission?
We aim to be as inclusive as possible. We prioritize demonstrated interest and commitment over grades or existing achievements. Our application is intentionally straightforward — no essays required.
Will this look good on a college application?
Both programs provide certificates of completion and, for select participants, letters of recommendation from AAIVF board members. The skills and experiences gained are genuinely valuable — the credential is a bonus.
How do I stay updated on program dates?
Contact us to be added to our program mailing list. We announce new cohorts 4–6 weeks before applications open.