Friends Forever International (FFI), a global youth leadership and cultural exchange organization based in New Hampshire, recently hosted a delegation from Kazakhstan from February 21 to March 1 as part of the Open World Program, facilitated by the Congressional Office for International Leadership (COIL).
The delegation consisted of five NGO professionals and a facilitator from Kazakhstan, who traveled to the Granite State to collaborate with local leaders and examine best practices in nonprofit management and cultural institution governance. Throughout the week-long program, the delegates engaged with organizations such as the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Strawbery Banke Museum, Lenape Center, 3S Artspace, the NH State House Visitor Center, Currier Museum of Art, New Hampshire Humanities, and the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire. They also met with NH State Representative Kate Murray and staff from Congressman Chris Pappas’ office, gaining insight into the intersection of government and nonprofit initiatives. Additionally, the delegation traveled to Boston to gain a broader regional perspective.
FFI Operations Manager Amelia Burke commented, “It’s a joy to be in a community where people in business, nonprofits, and local and state government open their arms to people from around the world. Every day, New Hampshire showcases exceptional work and demonstrates how local leadership can have global impact.”
The Open World Program, administered by COIL, is one of the most effective U.S. exchange programs, promoting depolarized engagement and fostering international leadership development. Since its establishment in 1999, COIL has facilitated exchanges for more than 31,000 emerging leaders, providing them with exposure to the work of Congress, American politics, accountable governance and volunteerism.
Since its founding in 1986, FFI has welcomed visitors and participants from over 30 countries to the Granite State, reinforcing New Hampshire’s role as a hub for innovation, hospitality, and international collaboration. Learn more about its initiatives at www.ff.international.
