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Applications are now open for individuals interested in the Obama Foundation Africa Leaders Program 2025
The Obama Foundation Africa Leaders program is designed to build a network of innovative, values-based leaders dedicated to driving positive change in their communities, across the continent, and worldwide. Launched in 2018 in Africa, the Leaders program has expanded globally, reaching Asia Pacific in 2019, Europe in 2020, and the United States in 2023.
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Program Overview
Inspired by President Obama’s approach to leadership, the program engages participants in understanding the challenges and opportunities involved in creating positive change. Through group sessions, small group discussions, and personalized leadership coaching, participants will:
- Develop a values-based leadership foundation.
- Build meaningful connections to foster inclusive, sustainable change.
- Prepare to tackle issues at a systemic level.
After completing the program, participants will better grasp how values-based leadership can enhance their work. They will gain new skills and ideas, motivating them to take action and expand their impact. Additionally, graduates will join the Obama Leadership Network, connecting with a global community of over 1,200 active changemakers.
Program Structure
The Obama Foundation Africa Leaders is a six-month, non-residential, virtual leadership experience for 34 emerging leaders from across Africa. The program focuses on developing leadership skills rooted in core values and building strong relationships with peers.
Core Program Elements:
- Weekly Virtual Video Calls: Four live sessions each month, featuring expert talks, leadership framework discussions, skill-building activities, and interactive small-group work.
- Monthly Community Groups: Peer learning groups for relationship-building, case study discussions on prominent African leaders, and reflective conversations.
- Individualized Leadership Coaching: Personalized coaching sessions to boost self-awareness, set goals, brainstorm ideas, and achieve development objectives.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2025/2026 Obama Foundation Africa Leaders Program, applicants must:
- Location: Reside in any African country or territory.
- Citizenship and Residency: Meet one of the following:
- Be a citizen of an African country or territory.
- Be a permanent resident of an African country or territory.
- Have lived in an African country or territory for at least the past five years, regardless of citizenship or permanent residency status.
- Geographic Focus: Demonstrate a strong commitment to creating positive change in African communities and plan to continue this work within the region.
- Language Proficiency & Age: Be professionally proficient in spoken and written English and be between 24 and 45 years of age by August 26, 2024.
Program Format
The 2025-2026 Leaders Africa Program is fully virtual. It is designed to provide a robust combination of networking, collaboration, and shared learning experiences through interactive online sessions. Participants will engage with Obama Foundation leadership and other specialists, gaining valuable insights and expanding their networks.
This virtual setup supports leaders from diverse sectors, including the public, civil society, and private sectors, who have a clear focus on specific issues and can showcase the impact of their work.
The Obama Foundation Africa Leaders program seeks to build a community of values-driven leaders committed to innovation and positive change, impacting Africa and the wider world.
Application Deadline: December 18, 2024.
