Murdoch Business School’s Andre deSouza, Director of Entrepreneurship, participated in the 2026 International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP), with follow-up discussions exploring the theme of Entrepreneurship in Local Communities.

The IVLP is a U.S. Department of State professional exchange program that connects current and emerging leaders from around the world with their American counterparts through short-term visits to the United States. The program fosters professional dialogue and lasting international relationships.

Following the program participants reconnected with fellow participants to share updates on initiatives underway in their respective communities. The conversations brought together experiences from different countries, with a focus on how entrepreneurship can respond to local needs.

Participants discussed support for women entrepreneurs in rural Nicaragua and impact events for entrepreneurship projects in Bolivia. A colleague from Malawi also shared news of multiple accolades recognising their work with farmers on climate change mitigation.

These updates placed community-focused initiatives at the centre of the exchange, connecting entrepreneurship with rural enterprise, opportunities for women and responses to environmental challenges.

The follow-up discussions continued the exchange of ideas beyond the initial program, giving participants an opportunity to learn about one another’s projects and maintain the international connections formed through the IVLP.

For Murdoch Business School, participation brought an international perspective to conversations about entrepreneurship and its role in local communities.