Etiquette Etiquette Foundation, Inc.
Preparing young people for the moments that matter.
Etiquette. Professionalism. Diplomacy. Protocol.
We prepare youth and emerging adults ages 14–24 to navigate educational, professional, and social settings with confidence, cultural awareness, and respect.
Through structured instruction and guided practice, participants develop professional presence, communication skills, and an understanding of the expectations that shape how people work and interact.
Opportunity begins with preparation.
Knowing how to introduce yourself, communicate thoughtfully, understand expectations, and respond with consideration takes practice.
Our educational programs give young people opportunities to learn these skills, ask questions, and receive constructive feedback as they prepare for college, interviews, employment, and civic life.
What participants learn
Professional skills. Thoughtful conduct. Greater confidence.
Our teaching connects etiquette, professional expectations, and cultural understanding in everyday life.
01
Etiquette Professional Presence
Practice introductions, punctuality, preparation, appropriate presentation, and considerate conduct in educational, workplace, and social settings.
02
Communication & Public Speaking
Develop attentive listening, respectful conversation, professional correspondence, interview skills, and clear expression of ideas.
03
Cultural Awareness, Diplomacy & Protocol
Explore cultural differences, thoughtful forms of address, professional and formal introductions, and respectful communication across perspectives. Connect these skills with responsible participation in community and civic life.
professional preparation. Practical experience.
Opportunity
Readiness
Academy™
Youth ages 14-24
Washington, D.C. – Prince George’s County, Maryland.
Practical instruction
Career & civic exposure
Our core program
Structured learning. Practical preparation.
The Opportunity Readiness Academy™ is the Foundation’s six-week educational program in professional and career readiness.
Its six-module learning pathway covers:
- Professional Presence
- Introductions & Interaction
- Workplace Communication
- Career Preparation
- Speakers Academy Camp
- Career & Civic Engagement
Participants practice introductions, workplace scenarios, interview responses, and presentations. Etiquette, cultural awareness, and respectful interaction connect the learning throughout.
Cohort dates, eligibility, locations, and participation details will be announced as arrangements are confirmed.
Our educational partnership
Potential to Possibilities
Life skills and professional readiness, taught together.
Etiquette Etiquette Foundation and Community Advocates for Family & Youth (CAFY) are collaborating on a free six-week pilot for approximately 10–12 youth.
CAFY will provide life-skills instruction addressing self-awareness, decision-making, healthy relationships, communication, and emotional management, along with parent/guardian education.
The Foundation will deliver professional readiness instruction through the Opportunity Readiness Academy™, including professional presence, introductions, workplace communication, career preparation, public speaking, and career and civic engagement.
The collaboration agreement covers January–June 2027. Session dates, eligibility, and participation details will be shared before enrollment opens.
View Program Flyer
| Visit CAFY’s Website
Our approach
Building readiness through instruction and practice.
01
Learn
Understand etiquette, professional expectations, cultural awareness, and the purpose behind respectful conduct.
02
Practice
Rehearse introductions, conversations, interviews, and presentations through guided activities.
03
Demonstrate
Apply skills, receive constructive feedback, and reflect on personal progress.
04
Connect
Identify how these skills support education, employment, relationships, and participation in community life.
SAVE THE DATE • APRIL 29, 2028
Diplomatic Spring Ball™
A Passage to Purpose
Planned for the Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C., the Diplomatic Spring Ball™ will celebrate young people’s preparation, growth, and achievements.
A separate six-week etiquette and waltz preparation program will introduce formal dining, host and guest responsibilities, receiving-line protocol, cultural awareness, and waltz fundamentals.
The Ball will provide a formal setting to demonstrate these skills alongside families, mentors, and supporters.
Ball preparation and participation are separate from the CAFY pilot. Requirements and event details will be announced on the Ball’s dedicated page.
Get involved
Help prepare the next generation.
We welcome collaboration with embassies, cultural institutions, schools, employers, community organizations, and professionals with experience in etiquette, protocol, diplomacy, military service, and youth education.
Partner
Help develop educational opportunities aligned with our mission through guest instruction, cultural learning, guided visits, or participant referrals.
Share Your Expertise
Contribute to an approved learning session, presentation workshop, or mock interview activity coordinated by the Foundation.
Support Participation
Help fund instruction, learning materials, and program participation for young people.
For young people, families & community partners
Preparation starts with a conversation.
Contact the Foundation to ask about upcoming programs, refer a young person, or discuss a contribution to our educational work.
