Deadline: March 13, 2026
The VV Visionaries Program 2026 is a global initiative designed to empower women leaders who are driving social impact across communities worldwide. Launched by Vital Voices Global Partnership in collaboration with the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund, this programme aims to equip women founders and co-founders of social enterprises and nonprofit organisations with advanced leadership skills, mentorship, and a global support network.
The VV Visionaries Program 2026 continues the mission of cultivating visionary women who are reshaping the future of leadership through innovation, inclusivity, and social change.
About the VV Visionaries Program 2026
This programme supports a diverse cohort of around 50 women leaders globally, offering them the opportunity to join the Vital Voices Leadership Journey — a seven-week fully virtual course. Participants will engage in transformative learning experiences, develop strategic leadership approaches, and connect with peers and mentors across sectors.
The curriculum is designed to strengthen women’s leadership capacity, focusing on collaboration, resilience, and sustainable impact.
Application Deadline
- Deadline: 13 March 2026, 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET)
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as selection is competitive and spaces are limited.
Programme Structure
The programme provides an immersive leadership experience that includes:
- A 7-week virtual leadership course as part of the Vital Voices Leadership Journey
- Interactive small-group discussions and peer-to-peer learning
- Guest sessions and workshops featuring senior executives from Estée Lauder and members of the Vital Voices network
- Networking opportunities with over 47,000 women leaders from the Vital Voices Global Partnership
Through these experiences, participants gain valuable insights, practical tools, and global exposure to enhance their leadership impact.
Benefits of Participation
Successful participants will:
- Develop advanced leadership, communication, and strategic management skills
- Learn inclusive and collaborative leadership practices
- Receive mentorship and exposure to global networks
- Join the Vital Voices network, connecting with women changemakers across 180+ countries
- Receive a certificate of completion recognising their commitment and achievement
This programme is not only a learning experience but also a gateway to ongoing leadership opportunities and visibility within a global community.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the VV Visionaries Program 2026, applicants must:
- Identify as a woman
- Be at least 18 years old by May 2026
- Be proficient in English
- Be the founder or co-founder of a social impact initiative, nonprofit, or social enterprise
- Not currently be enrolled in or have recently completed another Vital Voices leadership programme (2025 or 2026)
This ensures the programme remains accessible to new participants and maintains a dynamic and diverse cohort.
Time Commitment
Participants are expected to fully commit to the programme by:
- Attending all seven weekly live sessions (approximately 2 hours each)
- Dedicating 3–4 hours per week to assignments, peer activities, and reflection exercises
- Completing all surveys during and after the programme for up to a year following completion
This schedule is designed to ensure participants gain maximum value from the experience while maintaining flexibility for professionals and entrepreneurs.
Application Process
Applications are completed in English and submitted online. The process typically takes around 30 minutes.
Applicants should carefully prepare responses highlighting their leadership experience, social impact work, and commitment to community advancement.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can take the next step towards becoming part of this global community of women leaders:
💼 Need Help?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
