Call for Applications: United Leaders Global – NextGen Women Leaders Fellowship 2026

Application Deadline: May 29, 2026

About the Fellowship

The United Leaders Global Fellowship is a 6-month program designed to foster leadership and community impact. Through a combination of online training, interactive workshops, peer collaboration, and mentorship by experienced global leaders, the fellowship provides participants with the tools, knowledge, and networks necessary to become leaders in their respective communities. The program recognizes that the world needs more women leaders who are equipped not only with vision but also with practical skills, supportive networks, and the confidence to act. By bringing together young women from diverse backgrounds and countries, the fellowship creates a powerful community of changemakers who learn from and with each other.

Fellowship Benefits

• Leadership Development: Building confidence, decision-making, and leadership styles. Fellows explore different leadership models, identify their own strengths and areas for growth, and develop the self-awareness needed to lead effectively.
• Public Speaking & Advocacy: Preparing fellows to become compelling speakers and advocates for causes that matter. Through structured training and practice, participants learn to articulate their vision, persuade others, and mobilize communities around issues they care about.
• Global Citizenship & Networking: Connecting with peers and mentors from around the world to gain a global perspective and expand influence. Fellows build lasting relationships with like-minded young women and experienced leaders across continents.
• Social Impact Projects: Designing and executing community-driven projects that address real-world problems, from education and gender equality to climate action and economic empowerment. Each fellow translates learning into action by leading a project that creates tangible change in their community.

Eligibility Requirements

The United Leaders Global NextGen Women Leaders Fellowship is open to young women who meet the following criteria:

• Age: Young women leaders between the ages of 18 and 35
• Passion for Leadership: A deep desire to make a positive impact in your community or on a global scale
• Commitment to Learning: Willingness to participate actively in all aspects of the fellowship, including training, mentorship, and project execution
• Global Perspective: Open to participants from all countries, backgrounds, and walks of life, with a focus on diversity and inclusion

There are no restrictions based on nationality, educational background, or professional experience. The fellowship welcomes applicants from any country and any field of work or study.

What the Fellowship Looks For

Ideal candidates for the NextGen Women Leaders Fellowship demonstrate:

• Leadership potential – Evidence of taking initiative, influencing others, or driving change, whether in formal roles or informal settings
• Commitment to community – A demonstrated desire to serve and improve the lives of others
• Curiosity and openness – Willingness to learn from diverse perspectives and step outside comfort zones
• Resilience – Ability to navigate challenges and persist in the face of obstacles
• Collaborative spirit – Desire to work with peers and mentors to achieve shared goals

Fellowship Structure

The 6-month program is delivered primarily online, making it accessible to participants from any location. Components typically include:

• Online training modules covering leadership theories, advocacy strategies, project management, and communication skills
• Interactive workshops with facilitators and guest speakers
• Peer collaboration sessions to share experiences, give feedback, and problem-solve together
• Mentorship from experienced global leaders who provide guidance, advice, and encouragement
• Social Impact Project designed and implemented by each fellow in their own community

Application Process

The United Leaders Global NextGen Women Leaders Fellowship accepts applications once a year. The application process includes:

Step 1: Online Application Form
Detailing personal information, leadership experience, and motivations for applying.

Step 2: Essays or Personal Statement
Articulating why the applicant wants to become a leader and how they plan to make an impact in their community. This is a critical component of the application, allowing candidates to share their vision and passion.

Step 3: Recommendation Letters
From teachers, mentors, or community leaders who can speak to the applicant’s potential for leadership. Letters should provide specific examples of the candidate’s character, initiative, and impact.

Application Link: Click on the link to apply.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Young women around the world face systemic barriers to leadership: lack of role models, limited access to networks, cultural expectations that prioritize others’ needs over their own ambitions, and the persistent impostor syndrome that makes many talented women doubt their qualifications.

The NextGen Women Leaders Fellowship addresses these barriers by:

• Providing structured leadership development that builds confidence and practical skills
• Creating a supportive peer community where young women can share challenges and celebrate successes
• Offering mentorship from women who have navigated similar paths and can offer guidance
• Centering action – each fellow designs and implements a real project in their community, translating learning into impact
• Welcoming diversity – open to young women from any country, background, or field of work

For a young woman who knows she wants to lead but isn’t sure how to start, or who has been leading informally but wants to strengthen her skills and network, this fellowship offers a structured, supportive, and transformative journey.

For More Information: Visit the Official United Leaders Global Webpage