Leadership
Academy
To apply for the program, you can go to the section APPLY.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
Learn to spot and capture opportunities with vision, resilience, and resourcefulness – qualities that are important for both your education and career
Learn about interesting topics from U.S. teachers
Make new friends
Have a chance to work with a team to develop and pitch your innovative idea
Get expert guidance in creating an action plan, elevator pitch, and presentation
Learn about American culture and experience some of Maine’s natural wonders by spending your days at the beach on the Atlantic Ocean, hiking a mountain trail, or touring Portland Harbor and its gorgeous Casco Bay islands by ferry boat
BAFF Leadership Academy participants in Portland, Maine, 2024
BAFF offers this exciting scholarship as part of its mission to strengthen ties between and among Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and the United States and to invest in the development of young Baltic leaders and entrepreneurs. Scholarship recipients will complete an innovative experiential three-week curriculum.
This program will engage participants in concepts of idea generation, design thinking, the entrepreneurial mindset, innovation, sustainability, business models, and leadership development. The program will include a capstone challenge that allows students to work in teams, gain practical experience, and demonstrate their learnings. Participants will increase their self-confidence, improve communication skills, practice leadership in informal and formal environments, and build meaningful relationships with their peers.
Lectures and workshops will be held on a college campus in Maine. In addition to the formal curriculum, there will also be a variety of activities as well as relaxing downtime to keep a good balance between fun and the professional environment of the course. At the conclusion of the program, participants will take a short tour of New York and Washington to complete their unforgettable American summer experience.
Participation in Summer 2025 BAFF Leadership Academy is based on CIEE Health & Safety requirements in order to ensure a safe experience for all. All activities are subject to change.
THE SCHOLARSHIP INCLUDES
Round-trip international airfare
Dormitory accommodation, meals, and travel while in the United States
Travel health insurance while in the United States, provided by CIEE
Online pre-departure orientation course
In-person orientation
Participation in the BAFF Leadership Academy course
Field trips, outings, and activities with like-minded Baltic peers
Trip to New York and Washington D.C.
BAFF Leadership Academy participants, 2024
BAFF Leadership Academy participants on a visit to the U.S. Capitol, Washington D.C., 2023
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
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Applicants to the Summer Leadership Academy must:
• Hold a passport from Estonia, Latvia, or Lithuania valid for international travel
• Be Grade 11 student and be entering Grade 12 for the 2025/2026 school year
• Have written and spoken English language proficiency sufficient to participate fully in the curriculum
• Have parental permission to apply and participate in the program
• Have no immediate family members who are BAFF employees or members of the BAFF Boards of Directors or Advisors
• Must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19
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Applicants will be selected based on, but not limited to, the following criteria:
• Commitment to applying new leadership and innovation skills
• Potential for contributions to school, community, and home country
• Demonstrated self-motivation and responsibility
• Ability to serve as a cultural ambassador
• Understanding of the BAFF mission.
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• Participant and one parent must attend pre-departure orientation in Riga
• Cover ESTA (for Visa Waiver Program Travelers registering under ESTA)
• Participant must have pocket money for four weeks (approximately $300)
• Travel to and from Baltic departure airport.
2025 LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
july 14 - August 5, 2025
topic: Leading the Future
The future is full of uncertainty and ambiguity. If we are going to be able to save the planet and find a better life for everyone in society, we need effective leadership. This course equips students with the skills, models, and experiences needed to lead the future. By examining ourselves, others, and opportunities, we will learn how to navigate our complex world while inspiring ourselves and others to take meaningful actions.
In the end of the program you’ll receive:
A CIEE certificate of learning
A final capstone project to share with your teachers at home
Membership in the BAFF Alumni Association
Dates & Deadlines
Application Opens
January 3, 2025
Application Deadline
February 9, 2025
Decision Notification*
May 30, 2025
*Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview before the decision notification date.
Program dates
July 14 - August 5, 2025
Orientation for participants and one parent
(mandatory event)
June 7, 2025