Harpswell Leadership Resident Program: A Path to Global Impact

The Harpswell Leadership Resident Program offers a unique opportunity for women to contribute to leadership development in Cambodia. This program, based in Phnom Penh, provides a four-to-eight-month professional development experience. Participants, known as Leadership Residents (LRs), become an essential part of the Harpswell community, working closely with Cambodian Women’s Leadership students and alumnae. It’s a chance to refine professional skills, explore leadership styles, and engage in meaningful social impact work.

Key Takeaways

• The Harpswell Leadership Resident Program offers women a 4-8 month opportunity in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, to support leadership development.
• Residents will facilitate classes, improve students’ English, edit applications, and plan cultural activities.
• Participants receive room, board, travel insurance, and a monthly stipend, but must arrange their own travel to Cambodia.
• Eligibility requires being a woman with cross-cultural experience, strong English skills, and a commitment to women’s empowerment.

Program Overview

The Harpswell Leadership Resident Program is designed to foster growth for both the residents and the students they support. LRs are expected to be active participants in the daily life of the leadership centers. This involves building strong relationships and promoting cultural exchange. A key part of their role is to offer support through weekly office hours. During these sessions, LRs can help students with tasks like improving English conversation skills, editing job applications, or reviewing university papers.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership Residents play a vital role in the educational and personal development of the students. They are responsible for facilitating critical thinking classes, often centered on current events, which helps students develop presentation and analytical skills. Additionally, LRs may teach core curriculum courses, covering a range of subjects from health and nutrition to analytical writing. The curriculum and teaching materials are provided, making it easier for residents to step into teaching roles. A significant aspect of the program also involves planning and executing at least one cultural activity each month, enriching the students’ understanding of diverse traditions and experiences.

Benefits of Participation

The Harpswell Leadership Resident Program offers substantial benefits, focusing on professional development and cultural immersion. LRs gain hands-on experience in supporting student learning, facilitating discussions, and building teaching abilities. Beyond the residency, all Harpswell alumnae have access to ongoing virtual development opportunities, including professional mentorship and expert-led learning sessions.

Living in Phnom Penh provides an immersive cultural experience. Residents live alongside students and staff, celebrating Khmer traditions and enjoying local cuisine. A unique aspect of the program is the opportunity for LRs to travel to the provinces for a homestay with a Harpswell student’s family. This deepens their understanding of Cambodian life and culture.

Participants receive full room and board, along with travel insurance. A monthly stipend is provided to help with living expenses in Phnom Penh: $330 USD for LRs and $420 USD for LR Fellows. It is important to note that residents are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Cambodia.

Eligibility Requirements

The Harpswell Leadership Resident Program is open to women only. Applicants should have experience living and working across cultures, demonstrating curiosity and respect for cultural differences. The program seeks self-starters who are resourceful and flexible. Excellent English language skills, both spoken and written, are essential. A strong commitment to women’s empowerment and leadership development is also a key requirement. Participants must be willing to work non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends. While teaching experience is preferred, it is not strictly required. Applicants must be university graduates.

How to Apply

For those interested in becoming a Leadership Resident, the application process is straightforward. You can apply directly through the provided link.

Click here to apply

For more detailed information about the program and its offerings, please visit the official Harpswell website.

Harpswell Leadership Residency

The deadline for applications is September 18, 2026.

Conclusion

The Harpswell Leadership Resident Program presents a compelling opportunity for women seeking to make a tangible difference in global leadership development. By immersing themselves in Cambodian culture and directly supporting young women, residents gain invaluable professional and personal experience. It’s a chance to contribute to a vital cause while growing as a leader and global citizen.

Frequently Asked Questions