The Obama Foundation Africa Leaders Program is a transformative initiative designed to empower and connect emerging leaders from across the African continent. Launched by the Obama Foundation, founded by former U.S. President Barack Obama, this program reflects a commitment to fostering the next generation of African leaders who are dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
This leadership development program spans a comprehensive curriculum, equipping participants with the skills, knowledge, and networks essential for driving meaningful change. The program’s content encompasses diverse areas such as values-based leadership, community engagement, and the practical application of leadership principles in real-world contexts.
One distinctive feature of the program is its focus on peer learning and collaboration. Participants engage with a diverse cohort of leaders from various sectors, creating a vibrant community of practice. Through virtual interactions, participants share insights, exchange experiences, and collectively explore solutions to the complex challenges facing their respective communities.
The program also provides exclusive opportunities for participants to virtually interact with and learn from prominent figures, including leadership specialists and, notably, the leadership of the Obama Foundation. This direct engagement with experienced leaders and mentors adds a unique dimension to the learning experience, offering insights and perspectives that inspire and inform the participants’ leadership journeys.
Throughout the program, participants are encouraged to translate their learning into tangible projects and initiatives that contribute to positive social change in their communities. The Obama Foundation Africa Leaders Program serves as a catalyst for building a network of empowered and connected leaders who are poised to drive sustainable impact across the African continent.
The Obama Foundation Leaders program is a six-month virtual leadership development journey. Programs in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States will run from late August/early September 2024 through no later than May 1, 2025. For an average of 8-12 hours per month, the program will bring together cohorts of emerging leaders from across the regions. Participants (known as “Obama Leaders” or “Leaders”) will take part in weekly sessions that include:
- Practical tools and training for deepening values-based leadership
- Individualized coaching
- Community groups
- Conversations with thought leaders
- Cultural programming that showcases the richness of diversity in the region
- Curated spaces for deep personal reflection and interpersonal learning with peers
Benefits
- Upon completion of the program, Obama Leaders will become part of the Obama Foundation’s Leadership Network—a growing community of civically active Obama Foundation program alumni who are creating tangible solutions to the greatest challenges of our time.
For the program cycle spanning 2024-2025, the entirety of the initiative is conducted in a virtual format, devoid of any in-person programming. Participants in this cycle can anticipate a dynamic fusion of virtual activities meticulously crafted to augment networking, collaboration, and shared learning experiences. Notably, individuals enrolled in the program will gain exclusive virtual access to engage with leadership specialists, including opportunities for interactive sessions with the esteemed leadership of the Obama Foundation.
Eligibility Criteria For The Obama Foundation Africa Leaders Program
Location The program currently invites individuals residing in all countries and territories in the continent of Africa.
Citizenship and Residency You must meet one of the following criteria:
- Citizen of an African country or territory OR
- Permanent resident of an African country or territory OR
- Have lived in an African country or territory for at least the last 5 years, regardless of citizenship or permanent residence status
Geographic Focus Your work is geographically focused on creating positive change for local communities, an African nation or territory, and/or the broader Africa region. You demonstrate a strong commitment to continue to focus your work in the Africa region.
Leadership Experience You can demonstrate at least 3 years of relevant experience in your issue area.
Age You will be between 24 and 45 years of age on August 26, 2024.
Language Proficiency You are professionally proficient in spoken and written English.
Political Campaigns You will refrain from participating in an electoral campaign as a candidate for political office from the time you are accepted into the program through May 1, 2025. Selection decisions are currently scheduled to be sent in July and August 2024.
Program Commitment You can commit to fully participating for the entire duration of the six-month program. The Leaders Africa program is currently scheduled to begin the week of September 9, 2024 and will conclude no later than May 1, 2025, with planned breaks throughout. Exact dates are subject to change. You must be able to attend between 8 and 12 hours of required virtual programming each month, as well as attend required leadership coaching sessions and engage in community group discussions throughout the program duration.
Jurisdiction and Ability to Participate in a U.S.-Based Program The Obama Foundation is based in the United States. To participate in the program, you must be under no legal or regulatory restrictions that would limit your participation in virtual Foundation programming or travel to the U.S. for in-person programming (if any).
For More Information,
Application Deadline: Friday, February 9, 2024.
