Empowering Global Advocates: Insights from the International Visitors Leadership Program on Social Media Advocacy

The International Visitors Leadership Program (IVLP) stands as a cornerstone of the U.S. Department of State‘s efforts to foster global understanding and cooperation. Since its inception, the IVLP has brought together current and emerging leaders from around the world for short-term visits to the United States, offering them a unique platform to engage with American counterparts and share best practices across various fields. This year’s theme, “Advocacy through Social Media,” is particularly timely and relevant, as it addresses the transformative power of digital platforms in shaping public discourse, mobilizing communities, and driving social change.

The IVLP program participants.

I had the privilege of joining 18 other communication professionals, content creators, and digital enthusiasts from across the African continent for this year’s IVLP from July 13th- August 3rd 2024.  This diverse group included journalists, social media influencers, digital strategists, and advocacy campaigners, all united by a common goal: to harness the power of social media for effective advocacy. The delicate mix of participants brought together a wealth of knowledge and varied perspectives, enriching our discussions and learning experiences. This diversity not only deepened our understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our respective fields but also highlighted the universal importance of digital communication in today’s interconnected world.

Group photo of the IVLP 2024 Program “Advocacy Through Social Media participants

Program Objectives

The U.S Department of State sponsored IVLP Program was administered by Meridian International and outlined specific objectives for the program.

1. Examine First Amendment principles and the delicate balance in protecting free speech on social media.
2. Illustrate how social media has transformed the way in which youth advocate and engage in civil society.
3. Observe the operations of digital media companies and those creating industry-advancing technology.
4. Explore how non-profits, advocacy organizations and government agencies work with the digital content industry.

Washington, D.C.: A Hub of Policy and Innovation

Washington, D.C., with its iconic monuments and vibrant political landscape, served as a dynamic backdrop for our exploration of critical issues in digital communication and advocacy. From July 13th to 19th, the program offered an in-depth look into various facets of U.S. federalism and free speech issues, examining how these foundational principles shape and influence digital media practices. We delved into discussions on digital media governance and its profound impact on civil society, exploring how regulations and policies affect public discourse and engagement. A highlight of our time in D.C. was a hands-on social media strategy workshop, where we learned cutting-edge techniques to enhance our advocacy efforts. Additionally, we engaged with service learning and civic engagement programs, gaining insights into how these initiatives foster community involvement and social responsibility. This week in the nation’s capital provided invaluable perspectives on the intersection of technology, policy, and civic action.

“@SFRCdems was pleased to host leading African media influencers w/ @StateIVLP for a discussion about advocacy through social media. For many individuals, social media is a key tool for community engagement and advocacy for #HumanRights and #Transparency.” -Chair @SenatorCardin. pic.twitter.com/Ek5VdLbL2C

— Senate Foreign Relations Committee (@SFRCdems) July 17, 2024

We also enjoyed a tour of the beautiful and iconic monuments and buildings in the city.

@omreeyn_officiall Washington DC 🇺🇸 #fyp #somalitiktok #djiboutitiktok🇩🇯🇩🇯 #somali ♬ son original – Omreeyn_Official

Miami, Florida: A Melting Pot of Media and Activism

Miami’s vibrant culture and bustling media scene set the stage for an engaging exploration of advocacy and community mobilization from July 19th to 24th. Known for its dynamic blend of cultures and its commitment to environmental and social issues, Miami offered a rich context for our program’s focus. We delved into strategies for engaging local media, learning how to effectively collaborate with media outlets to amplify our messages. The city’s unique environmental challenges provided a practical backdrop for discussions on mobilizing audiences for environmental action, offering insights into grassroots strategies and public awareness campaigns. Additionally, we explored advocacy for marginalized communities, examining approaches to support and uplift underrepresented voices within the diverse population of Miami. This experience highlighted the city’s role as a hub for innovative advocacy and community engagement in the face of pressing social and environmental issues.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Fostering Empowerment and Safety

Milwaukee, with its rich history and strong sense of community, provided a compelling setting for our exploration of creative approaches to community empowerment from July 24th to 30th. The city’s vibrant neighborhoods and commitment to social progress were evident as we delved into innovative strategies for empowering local communities. We examined various approaches to creative community empowerment, learning how grassroots initiatives and artistic expressions can drive positive change and foster resilience. Milwaukee’s focus on youth programs and inclusive spaces offered valuable insights into how communities can support and engage young people, ensuring they have opportunities to thrive. Additionally, we explored strategies for building safer communities, discussing collaborative approaches to enhancing public safety and promoting well-being. This week in Milwaukee underscored the city’s dedication to nurturing inclusive and empowered communities through creative and effective means.

@omreeyn_officiall 🧢⚾️🇺🇸 #fyp #foryou #somalitiktok #djiboutitiktok🇩🇯🇩🇯 #somali ♬ son original – Omreeyn_Official

Home hospitality.

We were honored to be hosted by American families living in Milwaukee for a cultural experience. The families were very hospitable and welcoming. We extend our gratitude to the organizers for putting tis together, and the families for the warm hospitality.

Los Angeles, California: A Nexus of Advocacy and Innovation

Los Angeles, known for its glitz, glamour, and cutting-edge innovation, served as an inspiring finale to our program from July 30th to August 3rd. The city’s dynamic and progressive atmosphere was the perfect backdrop for our deep dive into advocacy and social media marketing. We had an exploration of women’s equality advocacy and organizing, gaining insights into the strategies and efforts that drive gender equality in one of the most influential cities in the world. This experience highlighted the power of collective action and the importance of sustained advocacy to achieve social change. Additionally, we learned how to leverage social media marketing for our own environments and purposes, exploring techniques to effectively harness digital platforms for advocacy and outreach. Los Angeles, with its blend of creativity and activism, provided a fitting conclusion to our journey, leaving us equipped with new tools and perspectives to drive our advocacy efforts forward.

Virtual 360 tour of Getty Images Museum Paintings.