Obama Foundation Leaders Program
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026 is now open for young changemakers around the world. Designed to inspire, empower, and connect emerging leaders, this program brings together individuals who are driving meaningful change in their communities and shaping a more inclusive world.
In this post, you will find everything you need to know about the Obama Foundation Leaders Program, including full details, eligibility requirements, benefits, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
Obama Foundation Leaders Program Summary
- Host: Obama Foundation
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries (Region-based)
- Reward: Full Sponsorship | Leadership Training | Coaching | Global Networking
- Deadline: December 12, 2025
- Scholarship Alerts: To receive Scholarship Alerts on WhatsApp, click HERE
Launched in Africa in 2018 and later expanded to Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States, the Obama Foundation Leaders Program builds a global network of values-driven changemakers working to improve their communities.
The program is inspired by President Barack Obama’s leadership philosophy, which centers on hope, community, integrity, and courage. Participants engage in:
- Leadership development workshops
- Small-group learning
- Values-based training
- Coaching sessions
- Networking opportunities
- Regional and cross-regional collaboration
The program aims to help leaders strengthen their impact, influence systems, and build sustainable change in their communities.
Eligibility Requirements for Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026
To apply, you must meet all of the following:
1. Based in an Eligible Region
You must currently live in one of the eligible countries or territories within:
- Africa – All African nations
- Asia-Pacific – (Full list provided in original details)
- Europe – All Council of Europe countries + Kosovo
Note: South Asian countries are not eligible for this edition.
2. Citizenship or Residency Requirements
You must meet at least one:
- Citizen of an eligible country
- Permanent resident of an eligible country
- Refugee/asylum seeker living in an eligible country
- Must have lived there for at least 5 years
3. Geographic Focus
Your leadership work must benefit your local community, country, or region.
4. Leadership Experience
A minimum of three years of relevant work in your field.
5. Age Requirement
You must be between 24 and 45 years old by July 15, 2025.
6. English Proficiency
Professional fluency in written and spoken English.
7. Political Exclusion
You must not be running for political office between Feb 1 and July 15, 2025.
See also: ₦200,000 She Blooms Grant for Women Entrepreneurs | How To Apply
Duration and Benefits of the 2026 Obama Foundation Leaders Program
The program runs for 8-12 hours per month, from September 2026 to May 2027.
Participants receive:
- Full sponsorship (no program fees required)
- High-quality leadership training
- One-on-one leadership coaching
- Peer learning through community groups
- Engagement with global thought leaders
- Cultural and regional programming
- Deep reflection and personal development sessions
After completion, participants join the Obama Foundation Leadership Network, gaining access to lifelong connections and opportunities.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The program selects leaders who:
- Have a clear issue they are working to address
- Demonstrate measurable impact in their community
- Hold a leadership role (formal or informal)
- Show a values-driven approach: ethical, equitable, collaborative
- Are open to learning and sharing in a group setting
Because this is a highly competitive program, the selection committee prioritizes diversity, inclusiveness, and cross-cultural representation.
How To Apply for the Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Follow the steps below to submit a strong application:
1: Visit the Official Application Portal
Click the application link provided on the Obama Foundation website.
2: Create an Account
Register with your email and log into the application dashboard.
3: Fill in Your Personal Details
Provide accurate information about your identity, region, and background.
4: Complete the Leadership Profile Section
This includes your:
- Leadership experience
- Community impact
- Achievements
- Future goals
5: Submit Required Essays
You will be asked to write responses that reflect:
- Your leadership values
- The problem you are addressing
- Your long-term commitment to impact
6: Upload Supporting Documents
These may include:
- CV/resume
- Evidence of work (if requested)
7: Review & Submit
Ensure all sections are complete, then click the Submit button on each final page.
The Obama Foundation Leaders Program 2026 is one of the most transformative leadership opportunities for young changemakers worldwide. If you’re passionate about solving real problems, inspiring change, and elevating your leadership capacity, this is your moment.
Deadline: December 12, 2025
Visit HERE to see more scholarship opportunities
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- WhatsApp: NextGen Scholarship WhatsApp
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