Apply for the Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2027 and join a global network of changemakers. Open to emerging leaders aged 24–45 working in public service, civil society, and the private sector.
Overview
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program is a prestigious leadership development initiative designed to inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders who are working to create positive change in their communities and around the world. The programme brings together diverse cohorts of leaders from Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States to strengthen their leadership skills and expand their impact.
Participants gain access to world-class leadership development experiences, coaching, networking opportunities, and a lifelong global community of changemakers committed to advancing the common good.
The next application cycle for the 2027–2028 Leaders Program is expected to open soon, following the closure of the 2026–2027 application round.
About the Programme
Launched by the Obama Foundation in Africa in 2018, the Leaders Program has since expanded to Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States. Inspired by the leadership values of former U.S. President Barack Obama, the programme focuses on values-based leadership, community impact, systems thinking, and collaborative problem-solving.
Participants engage in an immersive leadership journey that includes virtual and in-person learning experiences, leadership coaching, peer learning, and access to a global network of leaders working across sectors.
The programme seeks individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to serving others and creating meaningful social change through their work.
Programme Regions
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program currently operates in:
- Africa
- Asia-Pacific
- Europe
- United States
Benefits
What Do I Gain?
Selected leaders will receive:
- Access to the Obama Foundation Leaders Program
- Leadership development training
- Personalized leadership coaching
- Small-group learning sessions
- Opportunities to collaborate with fellow changemakers
- Exposure to global leadership perspectives
- Access to leadership tools and resources
- Networking opportunities with leaders across regions
- Membership in the Obama Leadership Network
- Lifelong connection to a global community of over 1,500 changemakers
- Opportunities to strengthen the impact of community initiatives
- Enhanced leadership and systems-thinking skills
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
Applicants should:
- Be between 24 and 45 years old
- Demonstrate a commitment to advancing the common good
- Be actively working to create positive social impact
- Show leadership potential and a record of community engagement
- Work within one of the following sectors:
- Public Sector
- Civil Society
- Private Sector
- Demonstrate a desire to collaborate with diverse groups and communities
- Be committed to values-based leadership
Ideal Candidates
The programme seeks leaders who:
- Are addressing important social challenges
- Have demonstrated impact within their communities
- Are committed to inclusive leadership
- Want to expand their influence and effectiveness
- Are motivated to collaborate with other changemakers globally
Programme Components
Participants engage in:
Leadership Development
- Values-based leadership training
- Personal leadership reflection
- Systems change approaches
- Strategic thinking exercises
Coaching and Mentorship
- Individual leadership coaching
- Peer learning opportunities
- Facilitated discussions
Global Network Building
- Collaboration with regional and global cohorts
- Cross-sector engagement
- Access to the Obama Leadership Network
Community Impact
- Application of leadership lessons to real-world challenges
- Development of sustainable solutions
- Strengthening community initiatives
Application Process
How Do I Apply?
Step 1
Monitor the Obama Foundation Leaders Program website for the next application announcement.
Step 2
Review the eligibility requirements for your region.
Step 3
Prepare application materials and leadership examples.
Step 4
Complete the online application form when applications open.
Step 5
Submit all required information before the deadline.
Step 6
Participate in any assessment or interview stages if shortlisted.
Step 7
Await final selection results.
Required Documents
Applicants may be required to submit:
✓ Completed Online Application
✓ Professional Resume or CV
✓ Leadership and Community Impact Information
✓ Personal Statements or Essays
✓ Professional References
✓ Additional Supporting Materials (if requested)
Application Deadline
The application cycle for the 2026–2027 Obama Foundation Leaders Program has closed.
The Obama Foundation has indicated that information regarding applications for the 2027–2028 cohort will be announced on its official website.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to sign up for updates and monitor future announcements.
Summary Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Obama Foundation Leaders Program |
| Organization | Obama Foundation |
| Target Group | Emerging Leaders |
| Age Requirement | 24–45 Years |
| Regions | Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, United States |
| Sectors | Public, Civil Society, Private Sector |
| Programme Focus | Leadership Development |
| Global Network | 1,500+ Alumni |
| Application Status | Awaiting Next Call |
| Cohort | 2027–2028 Expected |
Why You Should Apply
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program is one of the world’s most recognized leadership initiatives for emerging changemakers. It provides participants with the skills, coaching, networks, and global perspective needed to amplify their impact and address complex social challenges. The opportunity to join a diverse community of leaders from different sectors and regions can create lasting partnerships and open new pathways for influence and collaboration.
Conclusion
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2027 offers emerging leaders an exceptional opportunity to strengthen their leadership abilities, expand their networks, and increase their impact on society. Through coaching, collaboration, and access to a global community of changemakers, participants gain the tools and support needed to drive meaningful and lasting change in their communities and beyond.
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