Application Deadline:
December 12, 2025
About Organisation
The Obama Foundation is a Chicago-based non-profit organization founded in 2014 by former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. The Foundation’s mission focuses on inspiring, empowering, and connecting people to change their world by providing comprehensive tools and platforms for civic engagement and leadership development. Through various initiatives, the Foundation supports emerging leaders globally, fostering communities rooted in shared values where all people belong, participate, and thrive. The organization emphasizes values-based leadership and creates opportunities for changemakers to develop skills, build networks, and accelerate positive lasting change in their communities, regions, and across the world.
About the Grant
The Obama Leaders program engages regional cohorts of emerging changemakers aged 24-45 from around the world to accelerate positive, lasting change in their communities and beyond. Launched in Africa (2018), Asia Pacific (2019), Europe (2020), and United States (2023), the program brings together diverse leaders with varied approaches united by commitment to a global changemaker network. Inspired by President Obama’s leadership approach, participants engage through full group sessions, small group discussions, and individualized coaching to define values-based leadership foundations, cultivate inclusive relationships, and address systemic issues. Graduates join the Obama Leadership Network, a growing global alumni community exceeding 1,500 active changemakers.
Who can Apply?
The program seeks emerging leaders aged 24-45 years from around the world who are actively forging societies and communities rooted in shared values where all people belong, participate, and thrive. Applicants should demonstrate commitment to making positive change in their communities and regions. Eligible candidates come from diverse backgrounds across multiple regions including Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, and the United States. Successful applicants show potential for sustained leadership impact, willingness to engage with systemic challenges, and commitment to joining a global network of changemakers. The program seeks individuals prepared to define values-based leadership approaches, cultivate inclusive relationships, and advance positive social change.
How to Apply?
Applications for the 2026-2027 Obama Leaders program are now open and must be submitted through the Obama Foundation’s online application portal. Interested candidates should complete all required application components before the deadline. The application process evaluates candidates’ leadership potential, commitment to positive change, and alignment with the program’s values-based approach. Detailed application requirements and submission guidelines are available through the Foundation’s official application system.
Application Deadline
The application deadline is Friday, December 12, 2025, at 12:00 PM United States Central Time (UTC-6). All applications must be submitted through the online portal by this date and time.
Last Date To Apply
For more information, please visit the grant website here.
