Our work in this area includes the development and delivery of training on topics of relevance to the refugee community, or which enhance the cultural competency of mainstream partners. In addition, we coordinate the UCSD Youth Advisory Council (YAC) as a vehicle through which young leaders from within refugee communities can play a role in changing social and environmental factors that impact health. The YAC meets bi-monthly and is led by the Refugee Health Unit Director. Examples of professional and leadership development projects:

• “Introduction to East African Refugee Communities” – an e-learning course developed in partnership with San Diego State University Behavioral Health Education & Training Academy (BHETA), for use by County of San Diego Health & Human Services Agency in training their staff and contractors.
• Dunya Women’s Health Collaborative (Dunya) – funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and led by Family Health Centers of San Diego, the Dunya Collaborative developed community outreach, education and clinical training strategies aimed at improving the health and well-being of communities and individuals impacted by female genital mutilation (FGM).