Ms. Lana Abu Hijleh, Global Communities Country Director in the West Bank and Gaza, was recognized by the John McNulty Prize committee for her leading role in improving and implementing the “Youth Local Councils” initiative in Palestine. In a ceremony held in New York City, Ms. Abu Hijleh received an award for being one of the five finalists among the 150 Aspen Fellows around the world. The youth initiative aims to introduce youth to good governance practices, and to promote their participation in the democratic elections. In addition, the initiative focuses on giving youth opportunities to have leading roles in their communities to prepare them to be the future leaders in Palestine. The Aspen Institute fellows are known for their leadership in recommending, developing, and implementing projects and initiatives to positively affect their communities.