BridgeUSA Impact: See "Democracy at Work" in Action

The 2nd Annual CIEE International Exchange Conference (IEC) was held from October 6th to 8th in Washington, D.C. with the theme of "Democracy at Work." This year’s program highlighted the vital role that the U.S. Department of State's BridgeUSA program plays in driving economic growth, advancing public diplomacy, and reinforcing national security all while making America safer, stronger, and more prosperous.

This year's conference highpoint was the announcement of CIEE's “Democracy at Work” video contest award winner. To compete, current BridgeUSA participants were asked to submit videos spotlighting the meaningful contributions of BridgeUSA and its participants in the American communities where they live, work, and play.

One video stood out from the rest! Carol Cecillia, a BridgeUSA Trainee from Indonesia, submitted an outstanding video that wholly embodies the spirit of the program. Carol's video captured her volunteerism in and love for the local Santa Monica community, while training at Shutters on the Beach. She also showcased her firm embrace of American life and values, “I’ve seen democracy in action, not just in institutions, but in everyday acts of kindness, resilience, and community.”

During her acceptance speech, Carol gave some advice to those considering participating in the BridgeUSA program: "Be a bird not a tree, don’t be rooted in one place, spread your wings and fly…I’ve learned that our dreams are valid, no matter how big or small…I’ve learned also that courage and perseverance can take us further than we have every imagined. Keep dreaming. If other people can do it, if I can do it, you can do it too!" Her inspiring video evokes this wisdom and shows democracy in action.

Carol's story shows us that BridgeUSA not only shapes lives – it shapes the future of our country and the world.

In just the past year, CIEE supported over 30,000 BridgeUSA participants – just like Carol – representing 147 nationalities, placed in communities across all 50 U.S. states. Their contributions enrich our workplaces, energize our communities, and create lasting connections that benefit us all.

If you would like to learn more about CIEE's work with BridgeUSA – including our three-year, nationwide, Celebration Tour or next year's 3rd Annual CIEE International Educational Exchange Conference – please reach out to Carye Duffin, CIEE Senior Vice President of External Affairs, at CDuffin@ciee.org.

Meet All of the Distinguished 2025 IEC Award Winners!
View the 2025 IEC Recap video!
Follow CIEE on LinkedIn to stay up to date!