The Future Leaders Exchange Program (FLEX) was established in 1992 as the centerpiece of the Secondary School Initiative with Eurasia, funded by the Freedom Support Act. The goal of the program is to provide an opportunity for talented high school students from Eurasia (the countries of the former Soviet Union) to experience life in a democratic society in order to promote democratic values and institutions in Eurasia. Since 1993, over 12,000 students from 12 Eurasian countries have participated and returned home to pursue higher education and move into the job market. Applicants are tested and screened in their home countries by representatives of the American Councils for International Education (ACTR/ACCELS).

The goals of the program are:

1. FLEX students will acquire an understanding of important elements of a civil society. This will include concepts such as volunteerism, the ideas that American citizens can and do act on their own to deal with societal problems, and an awareness of and respect for the rule of law.
2. FLEX students will show willingness and a commitment to serve as agents for change in their countries after they return home.
3. FLEX students will develop an appreciation for American culture.
4. FLEX students will interact with Americans and generate enduring ties.
5. FLEX students will teach Americans about the cultures of their home countries and teach citizens of their home countries about the United States.

World Link is one of fourteen placement organizations working with the FLEX Program in the United States. As a placement organization, we have the responsibility to locate and supervise the host family and school placements during the year. World Link works with a wide variety of high school extracurricular activities. Due to the requirement of the program for students to gain leadership and community service skills, we have an agreement with the National FFA Organization to have FLEX students involved in local FFA chapter activities.

• Click here to find out more about Alumni activities of the FLEX Program in Eurasia.
• Click here to find out how to host a high school student.
• Click here to find out more about World Link’s Enhancement Activities Plan for FLEX Participants.
• Click here to see the 2004 award winners in each category.
• Click here to find out more about the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET).
• Click here to read a FLEX Participant Letter.