NEXT30 – Young Leaders of Central Asia

NEXT30 – Young Leaders of Central Asia, funded by the State Department and implemented by Meridian International Center, hosted 14 leaders from Business and IT, representing five Central Asian countries. Between May 30-June 9, 2022, the group visited three American cities: Washington, DC; Austin, TX; and San Francisco, CA.

While on the program, these young leaders learned about entrepreneurism, marketing, and other American best practices for business. They participated in discussions about start-up culture, female empowerment, social entrepreneurship, and philanthropy. This highlighted the multifaceted nature of entrepreneurship in America. Additionally, the group visited Stanford University’s and Google’s campuses, the Nasdaq Center, Apple Park Visitor Center, and other business and IT hubs. Participants had workshops on design thinking, social media, and networking, and practiced elevator pitches at a reception at Meridian International Center with guests from the State Department. Participants also participated in cultural activities, including Muir Woods National Park in California; visiting Lyndon B. Johnson Presidential Library and Museum in Austin; and exploring historical attractions in Washington, D.C., such as the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, and the National Mall.