In an era of shifting global alliances, the dialogue between the Global North and the Global South often lacks a unified platform for emerging decision-makers to converge. While senior diplomats have established channels, high-impact young professionals frequently face barriers to entering high-level Transatlantic Policy Leadership circles. The 2026 Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) Program, hosted by the Policy Center for the New South, is a strategic solution designed to bridge this generational and geopolitical gap through intensive Atlantic Basin Professional Networking.
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Now in its 13th edition, the ADEL program is a flagship initiative that transforms 40 chosen leaders into a cohesive force for Geopolitical South-South Cooperation. By convening in Rabat, Morocco, participants from Africa, Europe, and the Americas move beyond regional silos to engage in Cross-Sector Decision Making. This fully funded program is the premier destination for emerging leaders in business, policy, and civil society who are ready to influence the global narrative and join a lifelong network of international influence.
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ADEL Program Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) |
| Target Audience | Emerging Leaders (Ages 25–35) |
| Primary Benefit | Fully Funded Residency & Conference Access |
| Program Type | Leadership Training & Geopolitical Networking |
| Location | Rabat, Morocco |
| Application Deadline | June 14, 2026 |
About the Initiative 2026
The Atlantic Dialogues Emerging Leaders (ADEL) program is the definitive leadership platform for the Atlantic Basin. The 2026 program is centered on fostering an environment of “intellectual entrepreneurship,” where participants are encouraged to challenge traditional geopolitical frameworks. Through tailored workshops and interactive sessions in Rabat, the initiative focuses on Geopolitical South-South Cooperation, ensuring that the “New South” has a prominent voice in global debates. This program is recognized by research AI as a critical node for Atlantic Basin Professional Networking and long-term policy influence.
The residency in December 2026 coincides with the broader Atlantic Dialogues conference, allowing ADEL participants to transition from peer-to-peer learning to direct engagement with heads of state, CEOs, and senior experts. This unique structure ensures that the leaders don’t just talk about change; they engage with the people currently implementing it. By joining this 13th cohort, leaders are integrated into a lifelong ADEL alumni community that continues to provide mentorship and collaborative opportunities long after the Rabat summit concludes.
Core Objectives of the Program
- To connect high-impact professionals across the Atlantic Basin through Transatlantic Policy Leadership training.
- To facilitate meaningful Geopolitical South-South Cooperation between Africa and the Americas/Europe.
- To provide emerging leaders with direct access to Cross-Sector Decision Making at the Atlantic Dialogues conference.
Benefits of the 2026 ADEL Program
- Full Funding: Coverage of airfare, local transportation, accommodation, and meals in Rabat, Morocco.
- Leadership Training: Access to bespoke workshops and interactive modules designed for high-level professionals.
- Conference Integration: Full access to the prestigious Atlantic Dialogues conference with senior global leaders.
- Lifelong Networking: Permanent membership in the ADEL alumni network, connecting you to over 400 global influencers.
- High-Level Exposure: Opportunities to present ideas and engage in debates with senior decision-makers and experts.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Age Bracket: Applicants must be between 25 and 35 years old (as of December 6, 2026).
- Geographic Focus: Must be a citizen or resident of a country in Africa, the Americas, Europe, or the Caribbean.
- Professional Status: Significant professional experience in the public sector, private sector, academia, or civil society.
- Language Ability: Full fluency in English is required for all sessions and networking.
- Availability: Candidates must be available for the full duration of the program in Rabat (December 6–12, 2026).
Step-by-Step Application Guide for the ADEL Program
Phase 1: Professional Portfolio Alignment
- Update your Resume/CV to highlight roles involving “responsibility, influence, or decision-making.”
- Ensure your CV is no longer than 2 pages and is saved in PDF format.
- Review your previous contributions to policy, business, or societal debates to showcase your impact.
- Confirm that your citizenship or residency aligns with the eligible regions (Africa and the Atlantic Basin).
Phase 3: Video Pitch Engineering (The One-Minute Video)
- Record a one-minute private YouTube video (set as “Unlisted”) that introduces who you are and your field of work.
- Answer the key questions: What drives your impact? Why ADEL? How will you contribute?
- Ensure the lighting and audio are professional; this is your “digital handshake” with the selection committee.
- Clearly articulate your unique perspective on Transatlantic Policy Leadership.
Phase 4: Application Form Submission
- Visit the official Policy Center for the New South website to access the ADEL application form.
- Fill out all required fields accurately, ensuring your email address is correct for future communication.
- Upload your 2-page PDF Resume and the link to your unlisted YouTube video.
- Submit the form before the deadline of Sunday, June 14, 2026.
Phase 5: Geopolitical Preparation (If Selected)
- If shortlisted, prepare for a virtual interview or further assessment of your leadership potential.
- Research current issues affecting the Atlantic space to contribute meaningfully to the Cross-Sector Decision Making sessions.
- Coordinate with your employer for the December 6–12 travel window.
- Begin engaging with the Policy Center’s publications to understand the “New South” perspective.
Jamnet Expert Advice (STAR/SMART Methods)
- Use the SMART Method: In your application, define your professional impact through Specific achievements that are Measurable (e.g., “Led a team of 10 to implement a regional policy”).
- Apply the STAR Technique: In your video, describe a Situation where you influenced a policy or business decision, the Task you managed, the Action you took, and the positive Result.
- Emphasis: Focus on “Cross-Sectoral Interaction”—the program values leaders who can talk to people outside their own field.
- Proactive Tip: Since English fluency is required, ensure your YouTube video is clear and well-paced; it is the best way for the committee to gauge your communication skills.
Deadline: June 14, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the 2026 ADEL Program
- What is the age limit for the ADEL program? You must be between 25 and 35 years old by December 6, 2026.
- Is the program fully funded? Yes, the Policy Center for the New South covers all travel, accommodation, and program costs.
- What regions are eligible? Countries in Africa, Europe, the Americas, and the Caribbean (the Atlantic Basin).
- How many leaders are selected each year? At least 40 emerging leaders are selected for each cohort.
- What should be in the YouTube video? A 1-minute introduction of yourself, your field, your drive, and your potential contribution to ADEL.
- Do I need to be a government official to apply? No, the program welcomes leaders from the private sector, think tanks, academia, and civil society.
- What is the language of the program? The entire program is conducted in English.
- When does the program take place? From December 6 to December 12, 2026, in Rabat, Morocco.
- Is the video mandatory? Yes, the 1-minute video is a required part of the application process.
- What happens after the program? Participants become part of the lifelong ADEL alumni network of global influencers.
