Deadline: December 12, 2025
Applications are now open for the Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-2027. The program seeks to inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders from across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States who are committed to advancing the common good in their communities.
Launched by the Obama Foundation, this six-month virtual leadership development initiative focuses on building values-based leadership skills, fostering collaboration, and promoting positive, lasting change.
About the Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-2027
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-2027 is designed to equip changemakers with the tools, resources, and community support they need to strengthen the impact of their work. Participants engage in a series of virtual learning experiences, including interactive sessions, coaching, peer-learning, and leadership conversations.
The program is rooted in the Obama Foundation’s mission to inspire, empower, and connect the next generation of leaders driving change within their local and regional contexts.
The program will run virtually for six months, beginning the week of September 1, 2026, and concluding by May 1, 2027. Each regional cohort (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States) follows a similar structure with tailored content relevant to the participants’ contexts.
Program Focus
Participants will explore:
- Leadership rooted in values and ethics
- Community-driven impact
- Systems thinking and collaboration
- Personal and professional growth
- Network building across diverse sectors and regions
Through mentorship and shared learning, Leaders will refine their leadership approach and enhance their capacity to drive sustainable change in their communities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Requirement: 24–45 years old as of September 1, 2026.
- Residency: Must reside and work in one of the eligible regions (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, or the United States).
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen or permanent resident of an eligible country/territory or have lived there for at least the last five years.
- Experience: Minimum of three years of demonstrated experience in their issue area.
- Commitment: Must be actively engaged in advancing the common good through community or regional initiatives.
- Political Restriction: Participants must commit to not run as a candidate for political office from acceptance into the program through May 1, 2027.
- Language: Proficiency in English is required, as all sessions are conducted in English.
Benefits of the Obama Foundation Leaders Program
Selected participants will:
- Join a global network of changemakers from different sectors and regions.
- Participate in a comprehensive six-month leadership curriculum focused on values, impact, and collaboration.
- Receive personalized coaching, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities.
- Gain access to peer learning, community engagement sessions, and expert-led workshops.
- Strengthen their ability to drive meaningful, lasting change within their communities.
Duration and Format
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-2027 runs for six months, beginning the week of September 1, 2026, and concluding by May 1, 2027. The program is fully virtual, allowing participants to join from their home countries while engaging in dynamic, interactive sessions designed to foster global collaboration and impact.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is Friday, December 12, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. U.S. Central Time. Early applications are encouraged, as late submissions will not be considered.
Selection Process
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Demonstrated commitment to community or regional impact
- Proven track record of leadership and initiative
- Alignment with the program’s values of integrity, inclusion, and collaboration
- Potential to scale their impact and contribute to the broader Leaders network
Finalists will be contacted for further information or interviews during the selection process.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should prepare all required materials and submit their applications online before the deadline.
Learn More
To explore full details about the program structure, eligible regions, and selection timeline, visit:
🔗 Read more about the programme
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
