As Summer turns to Fall, we are proud to celebrate more than 350 young changemakers from 50 countries and territories across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) who took part in the AMEL Institute Summer 2026 program - the largest cohort to date! From July through early September, trainees engaged in an interactive, six-module online program that boosted their knowledge and skills in topics including mental health, human rights, genocide history/prevention, peace, democracy, and much more.
““What made this program different was the combination of historical knowledge, human rights education, interactive discussions, and real-life examples. It encouraged me not only to learn information, but also to reflect, share ideas, and think critically about prejudice, discrimination, and how we can help prevent similar events in the future.””
As with previous programs, the Summer 2026 program was highly impactful. Internal data showed significant knowledge gains across all topics, and nearly all participants affirmed that the program helped them become better changemakers. In addition, more than 40% shared that they had learned about the Holocaust for the very first time through the program. An independent evaluation will be conducted later this year to analyze the program’s impacts more thoroughly.
““What makes AMEL different for me is the connection between learning and real activism. It does not only talk about leadership in general; it makes me reflect on human rights, democracy, discrimination, conflict, activist safety and how I can apply these ideas in my own community. I also value learning from activists and young people from different backgrounds because it reminds me that many of the challenges we face are connected, even when they look different in our individual communities.””
The Summer program wrapped up with a final online celebration on September 11, marking the achievements of participants and welcoming graduates into the AMEL Alumni community. Through this growing network, alumni will continue to engage in discussions, share knowledge, and build connections with fellow changemakers across the region.
Throughout the Summer months, preparations were also made for the first-ever Fall program. The call-for-applications was spread widely across the MEA region and applications were thoroughly reviewed and assessed. Currently, the Fall cohort is beginning the onboarding process, alongside dozens of AMEL Alumni who will serve as mentors to support participants throughout their learning journeys.
With the Summer program concluded and the Fall cohort soon getting underway, AMEL Institute continues to build a growing community of changemakers and alumni committed to advancing positive change across the Middle East and Africa.