Women in Africa Young Leaders Programme 2026 (WIA)
Job Description
Women in Africa Young Leaders Programme 2026 (WIA)
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.
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.
Requirement for the Women in Africa Young Leaders Programme 2026
Applicants must:
- Be women, aged 25 to 40
- Be citizens of an African country
- Francophone, Anglophone, Lusophone – Ideally speaking several languages
- Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to Africa
- Be actively engaged in a professional, entrepreneurial, research or leadership role
Selection Process
- Selection process – May 6, 2026Candidates 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.
- Interview with the Jury – JUNE – JULY 2026Shortlisted 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 announcementOnce the selection process is complete, the new cohort of WIA Young Leaders 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.
Deadline: May 3rd, 2026