New American Speakers Program 2026 (Cohort 10): Fully Funded Storytelling & Public Speaking Training for Refugees in the U.S.

The Refugee Storytellers Collective is now accepting applications for the New American Speakers Program (NASP) – Cohort 10, a highly impactful initiative designed to empower refugees and immigrants in the United States to reclaim their narratives, amplify their voices, and become influential storytellers and advocates.

In a world where migration narratives are often shaped by misinformation or oversimplification, this program offers something powerful: the opportunity for those with lived experience to tell their own stories—on their own terms.

Why This Program Matters More Than Ever

Refugees and immigrants are frequently spoken about—but rarely given the platform to speak for themselves. Misconceptions, stereotypes, and political narratives often dominate public discourse.

The New American Speakers Program directly challenges this by:

• Centering authentic lived experiences
• Training participants to become confident public speakers
• Equipping them to influence public opinion and policy conversations
• Building a network of storytellers who advocate for more inclusive and accurate narratives

This is not just a training—it is a movement toward narrative justice and representation.

A Deep Dive into the Program Experience

The NASP Cohort 10 is a 10-week immersive journey (May 11 – July 24, 2026), delivered entirely online to ensure accessibility for participants across the United States.

What You Will Learn

Participants go far beyond basic public speaking. The program is carefully designed to develop a wide range of skills:

🎤 1. Public Speaking Mastery

• Overcoming fear and building confidence
• Structuring and delivering impactful speeches
• Engaging diverse audiences

✍️ 2. Storytelling & Narrative Building

• Transforming personal experiences into compelling narratives
• Identifying key themes and messages
• Balancing emotion, clarity, and purpose

🌍 3. Advocacy & Leadership

• Using storytelling as a tool for social change
• Speaking in policy, academic, and community spaces
• Representing refugee and immigrant voices responsibly

🤝 4. Collaboration & Community Building

• Learning alongside peers with shared experiences
• Giving and receiving feedback in a safe environment
• Building long-term connections and support systems

A Safe and Empowering Learning Environment

One of the most unique aspects of this program is its intentional design as a safe and inclusive space.

Participants are:

• Surrounded by individuals with shared lived experiences of displacement
• Encouraged to express themselves without fear of judgment
• Supported by facilitators who understand the emotional and social complexities of storytelling

This environment is essential for enabling participants to open up, reflect deeply, and grow confidently.

Storytelling Nights: Where Learning Meets Real Impact

A standout feature of the program is the Storytelling Nights—live events where participants present their stories to public audiences.

📅 Tentative Dates:

• June 17, 2026
• July 23, 2026

These sessions are more than practice—they are:

• Real opportunities to engage with audiences
• Platforms to challenge stereotypes and inspire change
• Moments where participants step into their role as public advocates and speakers

What Happens After the Program?

Graduating from NASP is not the end—it is just the beginning.

Successful participants will:

• Receive a certificate of completion
• Become official members of the Refugee Storytellers Collective
• Gain access to an exclusive network of speaking opportunities
• Be connected with event organizers, institutions, and platforms seeking speakers

This means your story doesn’t just stay in the classroom—it reaches the world.

Financial Accessibility: A Fully Funded Opportunity

All selected participants may receive a scholarship covering the full cost of the program, making this opportunity accessible regardless of financial background.

This ensures that talent, voice, and potential—not financial means—determine participation.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for individuals who:

• Have experienced forced displacement (refugees, asylum seekers, etc.)
• Are currently based in the United States
• Want to improve their public speaking and storytelling skills
• Are passionate about advocacy, representation, and social impact

Priority Consideration

Special attention will be given to applicants who are:

• Veterans
• Business owners
• Faith leaders

These individuals often hold influential roles in their communities and can amplify impact even further.

Application Process: How to Stand Out

The application process is designed to understand your story, motivation, and potential.

Steps:

1. Complete the online application form
2. Provide detailed responses about your experiences and goals
3. Participate in a Zoom interview if shortlisted

Tips for a Strong Application:

• Be authentic and honest—your lived experience is your strength
• Clearly explain why storytelling matters to you
• Show your willingness to engage, learn, and grow
• Highlight any past experiences in communication, leadership, or advocacy (if applicable)

Important Dates to Remember

• 📅 Application Deadline: April 17, 2026
• 🚀 Program Start Date: May 11, 2026
• 🎤 Program End Date: July 24, 2026

The Bigger Impact: Changing Narratives, One Story at a Time

The New American Speakers Program is not just about individual growth—it contributes to a broader mission:

• Shifting public narratives around migration
• Promoting empathy and understanding
• Building bridges between communities
• Empowering underrepresented voices

Every story shared has the potential to educate, inspire, and transform perspectives.

Final Thoughts

If you have ever felt that your story deserves to be heard—but didn’t know how to share it—this program is your opportunity.

The New American Speakers Program offers more than skills. It offers:

• A platform
• A community
• A voice

And most importantly, it offers the chance to turn your personal journey into a force for change.

APPLY HERE 

Discover more opportunities here