Sixteen young leaders from #MENA countries are in the United States to examine strategies for facilitating political participation and grassroot engagement, explore best practices in fostering alliances, leadership development, and strategic planning. This is the second post-Arab Spring #IVLP initiative to help “Young Leaders RISE” (Renew, Inspire, Serve, Empower). A highlight of the group’s time in Virginia was their session with representatives from UVA’s Center for Politics, a nonpartisan institute that seeks to promote the value of politics, improve civics education, and increase civic participation. The theme of the session was that “compromise is not a weakness but rather a synonym for strength.”