Applications are now open for the Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026, a global leadership development initiative designed to equip emerging changemakers with the values, tools, and networks needed to drive lasting, community-centered impact. Launched in Africa in 2018 and now active across Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States, the program brings together diverse leaders who are passionate about building a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Participants engage in immersive learning inspired by President Obama’s leadership principles, exploring the challenges and opportunities of social change through full-group sessions, small-group conversations, and one-on-one leadership coaching. The program helps participants strengthen their values-based leadership, deepen community engagement, and develop the skills needed to influence systems and accelerate regional impact.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
• Based in an eligible region; Africa includes all nations on the continent.
• Citizen, permanent resident, refugee, asylum seeker, or long-term resident (minimum five years) of an eligible country or territory.
• Work currently focuses on creating positive change for a local community, an eligible country, or the broader region.
• Minimum of three years of leadership experience in a chosen issue area.
• Age between 24 and 45 by July 15, 2026.
• Professional proficiency in spoken and written English.
• Not participating in an electoral political campaign between February 1 and July 15, 2026.
Program Activities
Participants will engage in the following for an average of 8 to 12 hours per month:
• Practical training and tools for values-based leadership.
• Leadership coaching sessions.
• Community group engagements.
• Conversations with regional and global thought leaders.
• Cultural programming that highlights the richness of the region.
• Curated spaces for reflection, peer learning, and collaboration.
Upon completion, participants join the Obama Foundation’s Leadership Network, gaining access to a lifelong community of changemakers across the world.
Program Duration
The Leaders Africa cohort will run from the week of September 1, 2026, to no later than May 1, 2027, with scheduled breaks throughout the program.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The Obama Foundation seeks candidates who:
• Have a clear issue of focus and measurable impact.
• Hold an active leadership role, whether full-time or volunteer-based.
• Demonstrate ethical, equitable, and collaborative leadership.
• Show a willingness to learn, share, and grow within a diverse group setting.
Because of the competitive nature of the program, only a limited number of applicants will be selected, allowing the Foundation to assemble a balanced cohort with varied experiences and perspectives.
Application Guidelines
• Review all criteria on the program website.
• Create an account, log in, and complete the online application.
• Ensure you click every submit button on each page to finalize submission.
• A downloadable PDF of the full application guidelines and questions is available on the site.
Application Deadline: 12 December 2025
Apply here: https://obama.org/programs/leaders/
