RFAs: Pacific Islands Leadership Program (PILP) with Taiwan

Deadline: 27-Mar-2026

The East-West Center’s Pacific Islands Leadership Program (PILP) strengthens leadership capacity and regional networks for early- to mid-career professionals from Pacific Island countries and Taiwan. The program combines an online preparatory module with in-person sessions in Hawai‘i and Taiwan, concluding with a Capstone Leadership Retreat. Participants receive full financial support, experiential learning opportunities, and mentorship to foster collaborative leadership for regional development.

Overview of the Program

PILP is designed to develop a network of leaders dedicated to advancing the prosperity and development goals of the Pacific region. The program emphasizes experiential learning, relationship building, and leadership skill development through structured activities in multiple countries.

Program Structure

1. Online Preparatory Module:

   • Asynchronous learning with readings, videos, and assignments

   • Establishes foundational knowledge for in-person sessions

2. Hawai‘i Segment:

   • Two-week program hosted on the East-West Center campus in Honolulu

   • Led by the Pacific Islands Development Program

   • Includes experiential learning, leadership exercises, and site visits

3. Taiwan Segment:

   • Hosted by the Republic of China (Taiwan) Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs

   • Cultural exposure, leadership development activities, and structured engagement opportunities

4. Capstone Leadership Retreat and Closing Ceremony:

   • Co-hosted by the Pacific Islands Development Program and Taiwan’s Institute of Diplomacy and International Affairs

   • Concludes the program and prepares participants to apply leadership skills in their home countries

Cohort Composition

• Approximately 20–25 participants per cohort

• Diverse sectors and professional backgrounds

• Emphasis on demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to national and regional development goals

Financial Support

• International airfare between home country, Hawai‘i, and Taipei

• Tuition and course materials

• Accommodation in Hawai‘i and Taiwan

• Health insurance coverage

• Stipends: US $1,125 for Hawai‘i portion, US $360 for Taiwan portion (adjusted when meals are provided)

• Ground transportation and visa-related provisions covered

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizens of specified Pacific Island countries or Taiwan (Taiwanese applicants must be members of an indigenous community)

• Minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience

• At least three years of demonstrated impact in professional or community work

• Early- to mid-career professionals

• Fluency in English

• Commitment to attend all sessions, site visits, and program activities

How to Apply

1. Submit applications through the designated platform before the deadline

2. Provide references as required shortly after submission

3. Applications undergo a three-phase selection process: eligibility screening, committee review, and interviews for shortlisted candidates

4. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews

Common Mistakes & Tips

• Missing any program component or not committing to full attendance

• Failing to demonstrate professional or community impact in application

• Not submitting references on time

• Insufficient English proficiency or lack of clear leadership potential

• Incomplete or late application submissions

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who can apply? Early- to mid-career professionals from specified Pacific Island countries or Taiwan (indigenous members).

2. What qualifications are required? Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience with at least three years of demonstrated impact.

3. How long is the program? Approximately five weeks in total, including online and in-person segments.

4. Are participants financially supported? Yes, including airfare, accommodation, tuition, stipends, health insurance, and ground transportation.

5. Is full attendance mandatory? Yes, participants must attend all online modules, in-person sessions, and the leadership retreat.

6. How are candidates selected? Through eligibility screening, committee review, and interviews for shortlisted applicants.

7. How many participants are selected? Approximately 20–25 per cohort.

Conclusion

The Pacific Islands Leadership Program equips early- and mid-career professionals with leadership skills, cross-cultural experience, and regional networks to contribute effectively to the development and prosperity of the Pacific region. Through immersive learning in Hawai‘i and Taiwan, participants gain practical insights, build collaborative networks, and develop strategies to address regional challenges.

For more information, visit East-West Center.