Next Level, an initiative of the U.S. Dept. of State and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is looking for Hip-Hop artist-educators to participate in an international exchange program. In collaboration with the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Teams and U.S. Embassies abroad, Next Level offers workshops and presents performances aimed at reaching underserved groups and addressing pressing social policy concerns.
In 2015-2016, Next Level will take teams of artists to five countries--in East Africa, Central America and Southeast Asia--to use Hip-Hop as a means of promoting musical and cultural exchange and fostering conflict resolution. Each team will spend between two and three weeks teaching and performing in the host countries. Participants are paid a per diem and an honorarium; travel and lodging expenses are covered.
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
Applicants should provide the following materials:
• A cover letter (1-3 pages) explaining the candidate's suitability for the position, relevant experience, and teaching philosophy. Letters should also explain how the candidate would use his or her art to help promote peace and cultural exchange.
• A 2-page resume.
• A list of 3-5 references with contact information.
• No recommendations should be sent at this time.
• Links to two or three creative work samples no more than 5 minutes in length each. High-quality video recordings of live performances are preferred; audio-only recordings are acceptable, but at least one sample should be a video recording.
Completed applications and supporting materials are due by Jan. 12 at Midnight EST. Please email completed applications to: [email protected].
For more information, visit: nextlevel-usa.org.
