Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 cohort of the Obama Foundation’s Africa Leaders Program, a flagship initiative designed to nurture, connect, and empower emerging changemakers across the African continent. The program brings together young leaders aged between 24 and 45 who are already driving transformation in their communities, encouraging them to build inclusive societies rooted in shared values and collective progress. Since its inception in Africa in 2018, the initiative has expanded globally—reaching Asia Pacific in 2019, Europe in 2020, and the United States in 2023—becoming a worldwide platform for leadership development and collaboration.

Inspired by the principles and leadership philosophy of President Barack Obama, the program provides participants with practical skills, mentorship, and a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with leading meaningful change. Through an engaging combination of group discussions, workshops, and personalized coaching, participants strengthen their leadership foundation, expand their networks, and learn to approach social and systemic issues from a values-based perspective. By the end of the program, they emerge with greater confidence, clarity, and a renewed commitment to making a lasting impact in their communities.

Graduates of the program join the Obama Leadership Network, an active and ever-growing community of more than 1,500 changemakers worldwide. This network serves as a space for continued learning, collaboration, and inspiration—where leaders support each other in creating long-term, inclusive change.

The Leaders Africa Program is a six-month virtual experience dedicated to building a strong network of innovative African leaders who are transforming their societies for the better. It identifies outstanding individuals from civil society, the public sector, and private enterprise who are addressing critical challenges in their communities and demonstrating measurable impact. The goal is to strengthen and connect values-driven leaders whose actions promote sustainable, positive transformation across Africa and beyond.

Applicants must currently live in an African country or territory. Eligible candidates include citizens, permanent residents, or individuals who have resided in an African country for at least five consecutive years. Their professional work should directly benefit communities within Africa and demonstrate a long-term dedication to the region’s development. Participants are expected to be fluent in English, fall within the age range of 24 to 45 by September 1, 2026, and be available to fully participate in the program from its start in September 2026 until its conclusion in May 2027.

To ensure focus and integrity throughout the program, participants must agree not to engage as candidates in any political campaigns during their fellowship period. Applicants should also have at least three years of relevant experience in their area of work and face no legal restrictions that would prevent participation in U.S.-based or virtual components of the program.

Throughout the fellowship, participants engage in weekly live online sessions that combine expert talks, leadership frameworks, and small group collaborations. They also take part in monthly peer-learning circles designed to deepen relationships and facilitate reflection on leadership examples from across the continent. Each leader is additionally paired with a professional coach who provides personalized guidance to help refine their goals, enhance self-awareness, and unlock their full leadership potential.

By the end of the program, participants emerge not only with stronger leadership capacities but also as part of a powerful pan-African and global network united by the shared mission of driving inclusive progress and sustainable change.

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached below to apply for this opportunity