Program Themes
YSEALI PE is administered under four themes:
Economic Prosperity, Strategic Energy and Minerals, Liberty and Freedom, and Peace and Security.
Applicants will be instructed to rank themes in order of preference on their application as well as their preferred cohort date. Selected finalists may be assigned to a different theme or cohort if deemed necessary and appropriate.
Economic Prosperity
The theme on Economic Prosperity will strengthen U.S.–ASEAN business and trade relationships by providing participants with direct experience in American business practices, innovation, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.
Topics related to this theme could include how small businesses, sports industries, and technology sectors expand commercial partnerships, attract investment, and create jobs, and how foreign partners can prepare to do business with the United States and expand market access for U.S. companies. Priority areas include the creative economy, digital commerce, super intelligence (formally artificial intelligence) sustainable business models, and sports-based economic initiatives that promote growth, youth engagement, and community development.
Liberty and Freedom
The theme on Liberty and Freedom will advance principles of self-government, freedom of speech, and rule of law to demonstrate the strength and accountability of government.
Topics related to this theme could include how constitutional checks and balances, transparent institutions, and protection of individual rights foster public trust and civic participation. Priority topics demonstrate democratic governance, anticorruption practices, and freedom of expression as essential foundations for responsive leadership, stable societies, and long-term regional prosperity.
Strategic Energy and Minerals
The theme on Strategic Energy and Minerals will focus on advancing energy security and critical mineral supply chain resilience vital to economic growth and strategic stability.
Topics related to this theme could include a focus on best practices in energy innovation, resilient infrastructure, resource governance, and supply chain transparency that secure reliable access to essential materials. Priority areas include responsible resource management, strategic investment, and partnerships that protect economic and security interests across the Indo-Pacific.
Peace and Security
The theme on Peace and Security will promote leadership in strengthening peace and regional stability across the Indo-Pacific.
Topics related to this theme could include addressing transnational crime, online scams, cyber threats, and adversarial influence through cooperation in security, law enforcement, and technology. Priority topics emphasize peace through strength, regional coordination, and practical approaches to preventing online fraud, trafficking, and criminal exploitation.