CELA is inviting interested CELA, MELA, SEALA, and SIBF members to apply for the facilitator’s role!

Deadline for submission of application: MARCH 1, 2026

Facilitators will be expected to arrive at Nazarbayev University, Astana, by the afternoon of July 10 for a two-day Facilitator Academy and briefing beginning with dinner on July 10 and continuing through July 11-12. The CELA Academy will run from the evening of July 12 through 22, 2026. Facilitators can return home any time on July 23, 2026.

(You should also note that a CELA Reunion will take place on 22–24 July in Astana, immediately after the Academy. Facilitators are welcome to join it as well. We will announce the reunion details separately, so stay tuned for the official update and registration information.)

The CELA Academy curriculum has evolved, becoming more rigorous, comprehensive and emphasizing the work done in the learning group sessions. There will be two facilitators in each learning group and their role has become more demanding and more important in terms of enhancing the participant experience. With this comes increased responsibility.

Role of facilitators:

Facilitators’ Noble Cause: To create a comfortable environment for the Academy participants that fosters an ongoing process of self-understanding, learning and growth. The facilitator’s role is volunteer and demanding, but immensely gratifying at the same time.

Whom we are looking for:

We seek facilitators who embody integrity, compassion, and a willingness to serve others.

Specifically, we look for people who:

o   Can listen deeply to participants and create a safe space for vulnerability and trust

o   Can make fun and connectivity between group members

o   Avoid imposing their views or passing judgment

o   Seek to empower participants rather than glorify their own egos

o   Will commit fully to the program every day, regardless of long hours, early morning meetings and lack of personal time.

Eligibility criteria for facilitators:

1.     Fluent in English.

2.     Able to commit to attending the full two-week Academy training, including arriving by afternoon July 10 and departing on July 23.

3.     For CELA members - active network member with a paid membership fee for 2 full years after your academy; being active in-country projects and causes; Consul, Director, and Chair positions are considered to be an advantage.

4.     Strong professional and/or academic background, with experience in leading groups. Training in coaching or facilitation is helpful but real-world leadership experience is most important.

5.     We recognize that life's journey includes ups and downs. If you are currently navigating through a particularly challenging phase, we sincerely encourage you to focus on your personal well-being and consider applying next time. Your experience as a Facilitator is wonderful but far more taxing than going through the academy as a participant; this is not a second chance to be a participant.

6.     Commit to working long hours and having fun before and during the Academy.

7.     Work together with staff, facilitators and faculty as part of the team.

8.     Tolerant and respectful of ideas of others.

9.     Willing to commit cost of travel, incidentals and the time to work on a volunteer basis (all other expenses: lodging, meals, local transportation and Academy materials will be covered by CELA).

10. As part of process of building a strong core of alumni facilitators we are looking to develop alumni lead facilitators. After facilitating twice (in any academy), you are eligible to be considered as Lead Facilitator.

Selection Process:

Step 1      Online application form will be available soon on CELA website. Deadline for submission of applications is March 1, 2026.

Step 2      The CELA facilitators committee and the Facilitator Coordinators will be responsible for reviewing the applications and selecting qualified facilitators.

Step 3      Selection will be based on the criteria above and the reasonable balance in gender, country, experience, and network representation.

Step 4      You will be notified on the committee’s decision no later than April 1, 2026.