Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-27 in USA | Fully Funded

The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-27 is a prestigious opportunity for emerging changemakers who want to strengthen their leadership skills and create meaningful impact in their communities. This six-month, primarily virtual program brings together leaders aged 24 to 45 from diverse regions across the world. Through a values-driven curriculum, personalized coaching, and collaborative group sessions, participants learn how to lead with purpose, understand systems-level challenges, and build connections that support long-term, positive change.

Since its launch in 2018, the program has expanded from Africa to the Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States, forming a powerful global network of driven leaders. Participants walk away with enhanced leadership capabilities, new strategies for community transformation, and the opportunity to join the Obama Leadership Network—an inspiring community of more than 1,500 alumni who continue to drive progress worldwide.

Benefits

• A cohort of regional peers who share your ambition to create positive, lasting change.
• Leadership coaching and mentorship tailored to your professional context.
• Online sessions exploring topics such as storytelling, inclusive leadership, power dynamics and collective impact.
• Access to the global Obama Foundation network of alumni and change makers.
• Enhanced capabilities to lead through complexity and design systemic, inclusive solutions.

Eligibility Criteria

The program is ideal for individuals who:

• Are aged between 24 and 45 (criteria may vary slightly by region).
• Have demonstrated a track-record of leadership or initiative in their community, organisation or sector.
• Are committed to values-based leadership and inclusive change — they believe in a world where all people can belong, participate and thrive.
• Are ready to engage virtually for 8-12 hours a month over six months and commit to full participation in their regional cohort.
• Actively engaged in public service, civil society, or private enterprise.
• Ready to contribute to a global network of changemakers.

Core Elements of the Program

• Values-Based Leadership Development
  Participants learn to define and strengthen a personal leadership foundation rooted in empathy, integrity, and service.
• Collaborative Learning
  Through full group sessions, small group discussions, and peer learning circles, Leaders share insights and approaches to community and systemic challenges.
• Individualized Coaching
  Each participant receives personalized leadership coaching to support their professional growth and clarify their long-term vision for change.
• Systems-Level Engagement
  Leaders explore how to address social, economic, and political issues at the systems level—understanding how to create sustainable solutions that benefit entire communities.

How to apply?

• Make sure you are between 24 and 45 years old and have experience leading or taking initiative in your community, organization, or sector. You should be committed to values-based leadership and inclusive change.
• Gather information about your work, community involvement, and leadership experiences. Reflect on how you have contributed to positive change and how you plan to make an impact through this program.
• Visit the official Obama Foundation Leaders Program site andand complete the online form. Fill in your personal details, background, and responses to the program questions carefully.
• Ensure you can engage virtually for 8–12 hours a month over six months and participate fully in your regional cohort sessions.
• Submit your completed application before Friday, December 12, 2025, at 12 p.m. U.S. Central Time (UTC–6). Late applications will not be considered.
• Wait for notification from the Obama Foundation if your application is successful and prepare to join a global network of changemakers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026-27 is a six-month, primarily virtual leadership program for changemakers aged 24-45 across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the U.S., offering coaching, networking, and skills to drive inclusive, lasting community impact.