Exchange Programs

A delegation of Latin American professionals focused on maritime law, fisheries management, and coastal policy in Louisiana. The group met with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries on data-driven enforcement strategies.

We met Captain Jimmy Corley and cultural leader Carolyn Sideco in Bayou Yscloskey to learn about local conservation efforts and the history of St. Malo, the first Filipino settlement in the U.S. We also visited Tulane University’s Maritime Law Center to discuss international legal frameworks addressing IUUF.

At the Southern U.S. Trade Association (SUSTA), we explored how agricultural and seafood exports are governed and promoted across global markets.

We welcomed emerging leaders in the arts, media, and cultural policy from Africa to explore how the creative economy supports development in New Orleans. The group engaged in peer-to-peer exchanges and artistic demonstrations at YA/YA, and visited the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation and Ashé Cultural Arts Center.

We met with The Ella Project to learn how legal and economic frameworks support artists. We had a policy dialogue at Gallier Hall with representatives from the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy, Film New Orleans, and the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism.

Cultural immersion continued through shared meals and time along the Mississippi Riverfront, creating space for collaboration and exchange beyond formal sessions.

We hosted professionals from the Near East and North Africa to explore approaches to supporting survivors and strengthening community-based responses. The group visited the Family Violence Program of St. Bernard, Metro Centers for Community Advocacy, and Kenner Domestic Violence Court.

We engaged with faith-based and community organizations, including Masjid Omar, to discuss culturally informed support systems. The program emphasized cross-cultural exchange, professional learning, and collaboration on strategies to promote safety and justice.

We hosted participants from Africa and Haiti to explore food systems and agricultural innovation through visits with leaders across Louisiana’s agricultural, academic, and nonprofit sectors. Meetings included the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, the LSU AgCenter, and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

We visited the Sankofa Community Development Corporation and the Historic New Orleans Collection to connect agriculture with community history and local institutions. The program highlighted collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and community partners.

We joined local professionals and residents for a coffee and networking event at St Noir Café, creating space for conversation and connection.