Next Level, an initiative of the U.S. Dept. of State and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is seeking Hip-Hop artist-educators to participate in an international exchange program. In collaboration with the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and U.S. Embassies abroad, Next Level offers workshops and presents performances aimed at reaching youth and underserved groups while addressing community and civil society issues.
In 2016-2017, Next Level will take teams of Hip-Hop artists to five countries to promote musical and cultural exchange, entrepreneurship and conflict resolution. Each team will spend between two and three weeks teaching and performing in the host countries. Participants receive per diem and an honorarium; travel and lodging costs are covered through the program.
Previous Next Level artists include Ahmad, Asheru, Diamond D, Jorge Fabel Pabon, Medusa, Ken Fury, Toni Blackman, Mista B. and many others.
Applicants must be:
• Outstanding performers in one or more of the following areas: MCing, Beat Making, DJing, or Hip-Hop Dance
• Experienced Hip-Hop teachers
• Able to commit to traveling abroad for two-three weeks in one or more countries, as well as a brief Washington D.C. orientation in May/June (date TBA)
• United States citizens
• At least 21 years of age
• In possession of or able to obtain a U.S. passport. (Please note: Green Cards are not sufficient to participate.)
Applicants will be selected according to the following criteria:
• Artistic excellence and experience
• Teaching ability and experience
• Communication skills
• Potential to use music or dance to promote peace and cultural exchange
• Potential to thrive as cultural diplomats
• Experience with artistic practices in addition to those specified above - including other areas of Hip Hop such as graffiti and beatboxing - may work in applicants' favor.
Completed applications and supporting materials are due by Jan. 11, 2016 at midnight EST.
For more details, visit nextlevel-usa.org/apply.
