Alumni
WHO WE ARE
BAFF Alumni are part of a unique and growing community of individuals who have crossed cultural and geographical boundaries to work with, and learn from, industry leaders and enhance their professional careers. Training in the U.S. is just the beginning – BAFF participants continue to utilize their newly minted skills, knowledge and experience long after they have returned home, fueling the impactful work they do in their own countries.
To foster connections between alumni, we encourage all former BAFF participants to check our Facebook page, Twitter account and LinkedIn group to stay up to date on Alumni events.
During my year at the YIVO Institute of Jewish Research, I discovered hidden parts of Lithuanian history and learned more about the Lithuanian Jewish community than I have ever learned at school. I also brought home one more valuable lesson – the power of active citizenship. I volunteered in the Bronx children’s afterschool center, participated in various demonstrations and protests supporting immigrants’ and women’s rights. What I have learned: if we want to live in a more just society, we need to act and be involved in our local communities and participate in democracy on all levels.
— Agnieska Avin,
Professional Internship Program participant, 2016
HOW TO NAVIGATE THE ALUMNI COMMUNITY?
The BAFF Alumni community meets in staple events throughout the year like at the annual Thanksgiving Dinner and Summer Camp. However, new initiatives are constantly developed by and for the alumni community. As you return from the United States, you can use the opportunity of being mentored by another BAFF alum in the Mentorship Program or take advantage of the Professional Development Grant to continue your professional development.
The representative body of BAFF Alumni is the BAFF Alumni Council where members work together to develop strategies and programs to engage and support the long-term impact of alumni U.S. experience.
Meet the Alumni Council Members
Another way to volunteer and give back to the BAFF alumni community is to become an Ambassador. Ambassadors represent and promote BAFF, its mission, programs, and opportunities within the BAFF community and externally throughout the Baltics. Apply to become an Ambassador today.
Alumni Stories
BAFF participants’ experiences are as diverse as the places they’ve taken them. Hear more about our alumni’s time on the program and what kind of work they’re involved with now.
Ilona and Zane
Kestutis, Dovile and Karolis
Lauri, Elise and Mihkel
Alumni Exhibitions
5th anniversary
In 2016, in honor of the 5th anniversary of BAFF, 22 alumni shared their inspiring stories. See how their lives were changed by traveling to the United States to intern, study, learn, and grow on the BAFF program.
10th anniversary
On the 18 of June 2022, BAFF celebrated its 10th Anniversary with the greatest alumni gathering yet. Over 300 BAFF community members met in Riga for the alumni-curated conference and a digital book was published.