About this role
Obama Foundation Leaders Program
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2027–2028: Apply for a Free Global Leadership Development Opportunity
The Obama Foundation is inviting applications from emerging and established changemakers for its 2027–2028 Leaders Program, an international leadership development initiative designed to equip individuals with the skills, knowledge and networks needed to create meaningful social change.
The programme targets individuals aged 24 to 45 who are actively contributing to their communities and seeking to strengthen their leadership abilities. Applications are open across four geographical regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and the United States.
The Leaders Program provides a free leadership development experience, bringing together individuals from different professional backgrounds, sectors and communities. Through virtual learning sessions, peer collaboration, coaching and shared experiences, participants develop values-based leadership skills and explore practical approaches to addressing complex social challenges.
The priority application deadline for the 2027–2028 cohort is November 23, 2026.
About the Obama Foundation
The Obama Foundation is a nonpartisan nonprofit organisation established to inspire, empower and connect people who want to make a positive difference in their communities and the wider world.
Through its leadership programmes and other initiatives, the Foundation supports individuals working across different sectors to develop solutions to pressing social, economic and civic challenges.
Its Leaders Program reflects the belief that effective leadership requires more than professional expertise. It also involves understanding personal values, building relationships, listening to different perspectives and working collaboratively towards lasting change.
The programme brings together participants from the public sector, private sector and civil society, creating opportunities for cross-sector learning and international collaboration.
About the Obama Foundation Leaders Program
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program is a global leadership development journey designed for individuals who are committed to creating positive change.
Depending on the regional programme, participants take part in a six- or eight-month development experience. The global programme generally involves approximately 8–12 hours of engagement per month, allowing participants to balance their leadership development activities with existing professional and community responsibilities.
The programme uses several learning approaches, including:
- Virtual group learning sessions.
- Collaborative and peer-led learning spaces.
- Individualised leadership coaching.
- Discussions on values-based leadership.
- Opportunities to exchange ideas with changemakers from different backgrounds.
- Exploration of strategies for achieving lasting social impact.
Participants are encouraged to examine the challenges affecting their communities, identify opportunities for change and strengthen their ability to lead with purpose and integrity.
Upon completing the programme, participants become part of the Obama Foundation’s Leadership Network, an expanding international community of alumni who continue working towards meaningful solutions to social challenges.
Regional Programmes Available
Applications are being accepted across four regional programmes.
- Leaders Africa
The Leaders Africa programme is a six-month virtual leadership development experience designed to build a network of innovative, values-driven changemakers across the African continent.
It supports individuals working to create positive change in their communities, countries and beyond. Participants have opportunities to strengthen their leadership abilities, collaborate with other African leaders and develop approaches to addressing challenges affecting their societies.
- Leaders Asia-Pacific
The Leaders Asia-Pacific programme is an eight-month hybrid leadership development initiative.
It seeks to equip participants with the skills and perspectives needed to advance inclusive and sustainable change within their communities and across the wider Asia-Pacific region.
- Leaders Europe
The Leaders Europe programme is an eight-month virtual leadership development experience.
It brings together changemakers who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities, build international connections and contribute to inclusive and lasting change across their communities and Europe.
- Leaders USA
The Obama Foundation Leaders USA programme is an eight-month virtual leadership development initiative that connects changemakers from across the United States.
Participants explore values-based leadership, strengthen their ability to collaborate and develop strategies for creating positive change in their communities.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is designed for changemakers between the ages of 24 and 45 who are committed to advancing positive change.
Applicants may come from different professional backgrounds, including:
- Government and public administration.
- Nonprofit organisations and civil society.
- Education and youth development.
- Climate action and environmental sustainability.
- Community development.
- Social entrepreneurship and business.
- Human rights and social justice.
- Other sectors contributing to positive social change.
The programme brings together individuals with different experiences, perspectives and approaches to leadership. Its emphasis is on developing leaders who can work collaboratively, understand complex challenges and contribute to sustainable solutions.
Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to making a difference in their communities and an interest in strengthening their leadership approach.
What Participants Gain
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program offers participants more than conventional leadership training. It provides an opportunity to develop personal leadership values while building relationships with individuals working towards similar goals in different parts of the world.
Participants benefit from structured learning, coaching and peer engagement designed to strengthen their ability to navigate difficult conversations, manage competing perspectives and lead collaborative initiatives.
The programme also provides access to the Obama Foundation Leadership Network after successful completion, creating opportunities for continued engagement with a growing international community of changemakers.
The Foundation reports that its previous participants have experienced significant improvements in their leadership confidence. According to its published programme impact figures:
- 93% of Leaders agreed that they could navigate moments of productive intellectual tension.
- 96% agreed that they could clearly identify the core values guiding their leadership.
- 90% felt confident about their role within the social change systems in which they participate.
These outcomes demonstrate the programme’s emphasis on self-awareness, collaboration and effective leadership.
Application Deadline and Programme Details
Interested candidates should take note of the following information:
- Programme: Obama Foundation Leaders Program
- Organisation: The Obama Foundation
- Cohort: 2027–2028
- Eligible age group: 24–45 years
- Regions: Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and United States
- Duration: Six or eight months, depending on the regional programme
- Learning format: Virtual or hybrid, depending on the region
- Time commitment: Approximately 8–12 hours per month for the global programme
- Programme fee: Free
- Application status: Open
- Priority deadline: November 23, 2026