Application Deadline: 3 May 2026
Call for applications: WIA Young Leaders Program 2026 for African women
Since 2021, the WIA Young Leaders program has aimed to support and highlight young African women who are actively contributing to building a dynamic, innovative, and inclusive Africa. This initiative is part of the fight for equal opportunities and enables the training of young African women leaders by providing quality support in their professional careers and social advancement, helping them fully realize their potential.
Explore the program
HIGH-LEVEL NETWORKING
with CEOs, ministers, journalists, public figures, accomplished business leaders, and entrepreneurs.
TRAINING PROGRAM
with board training, media training, career coaching, women’s leadership, customized training based on individual needs.
VISIBILITY
through WIA’s communication channels and media presence.
MENTORSHIP
Each awardee is assigned a mentor (an international leader profile).
LEARNING EXPEDITION
in the third quarter with a business trip organized in a major global economic capital.
Leadres Profile
25 to 40 years old
Flexibility possible depending on experience level
African
Born in an African country or having parents born in an African country
Francophone, Anglophone, Lusophone
Ideally speaking several languages
Leadership skills
Humility, empathy, resilience
Involvement and vision
Involvement in the development of the continent
Self-made
& Ability to take on responsibilities at the highest level
Program Alumnae
The WIA Young Leaders Program boasts a remarkable network of 43 alumnae who have successfully completed the program and are now making significant strides in their respective fields.
Program Eligibility
Please kindly note that applicants must:
- • Be women, aged 25 to 40
- • Be citizens of an African country
- • Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to Africa
- • Be actively engaged in a professional, entrepreneurial, research or leadership role
WIA Young Leaders program 2026 Program Calender
APRIL 2 – MAY 3RD 2026
Call for applications
Each year, the WIA Young Leaders program opens its call for applications, inviting talented young African women to apply. This phase seeks to attract candidates with strong potential.
MAY 2026
Selection process
Candidates are carefully reviewed based on their academic achievements, career success, leadership abilities, and commitment to making a positive impact. The selection committee narrows down the pool to a shortlist of outstanding individuals.
JUNE – JULY 2026
Interview with the Jury
Shortlisted candidates proceed to a final interview stage, where they meet with a panel of 12 international jury members. These interviews allow candidates to showcase their ambitions, leadership potential, and personal journeys.
SEPTEMBER 2026
Official announcement
Once the selection process is complete, the new cohort of WIA Young Leaders program 2026 is officially announced online and in the press. This public announcement celebrates the achievements and potential of these outstanding young African women and introduces them to a global audience.
OCTOBER – NOVEMBER 2026
Learning Expedition
The selected WIA Young Leaders are then invited on an exclusive business trip to Paris. During this journey, they have the opportunity to engage in high-level networking, attend specialized workshops, and meet influential figures in business, philanthropy, and social leadership. This experience is designed to broaden their perspectives, enhance their professional networks, and provide valuable insights for their future careers.
VISIT THE PAGE HERE AND APPLY
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