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The 2023 Citizen Diplomacy Action Fund (CDAF) is a competition that awards grants for teams of U.S. government-sponsored exchange program alumni to carry out public service projects that make the most of the skills, knowledge, and networks gained through their exchange experiences, to design and incubate projects. 

IWRC and Curiosity Literacy received this award in 2023 to develop an English language learning curriculum and translate it into 5 support languages that (1) are not commonly used in English language development materials and (2) are spoken in areas with some displacement. We focus on Burmese, Ukrainian, Bangla, Farsi/ Dari, and Swahili. This deliberate selection allows the curriculum to directly impact individuals uprooted from their homes and striving to rebuild their lives. This endeavor aims to bridge linguistic gaps and empower refugees to pursue a brighter future.

IWRC and Curiosity Literacy hope to unlock doors of opportunity for countless individuals through this project. By providing English language instruction, they empower refugees to communicate effectively, access education, secure employment, and fully engage in their host communities.

The development and translation of the curriculum represent more than just language acquisition. It signifies the restoration of agency for those who have been forced to leave their homelands. It is a testament to the belief that language, as a connection tool, can break down barriers and facilitate integration and inclusion.

Moreover, this project recognizes the immense potential of refugees and provides them with the resources they need to thrive in their new environments. It symbolizes a commitment to nurturing the skills, talents, and aspirations of those who have experienced displacement, ensuring their voices are heard, and their contributions are valued.

Ultimately, the importance of this project lies in its transformative impact on the lives of individuals and communities. It paves the way for empowerment, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding. By developing an English language learning curriculum and translating it into these five support languages, IWRC, and Curiosity Literacy are laying the foundation for a future where language is not a barrier but a bridge toward a world where every person, regardless of their background, can access the opportunities they deserve.

The Curiosity Literacy International (CLI) project is led by women worldwide. CLI is managed by Katie Callahan Neginskiy (USA) and coordinated by Abby Nabong (Philippines). The international alumni partners are Amelia Yeine (Myanmar) and Iryna Skubchenko (Ukraine). Our digital media is directed by Sheena Laine Honeycutt (USA). Translations are provided by Amelia Yeine (Burmese), Elena Lugovska (Ukrainian), Sharmistha Roy (Bangla), Sahba Moradipour (Farsi), and Nicole Barmasai (Swahili).