LEAP Africa Leadership Accelerator Programme 2026 for Young African Women

Reach us on

Applications are open for LEAP Africa Leadership Accelerator Programme 2026. LEAP Africa Leadership Accelerator Programme 2026, a capacity-building initiative created to address gender disparities in leadership across the African continent. The programme is specifically designed for high-potential young African women in corporate and entrepreneurial settings who are ready to advance into leadership roles.

The Leadership Accelerator Programme is a transformative leadership development experience for African women aged 23 to 35. It combines virtual learning, in-person engagement, and structured mentorship to equip participants with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to thrive as leaders within their organisations and industries.

The LEAP Africa Leadership Accelerator Programme is structured to support women at critical stages of their professional journey. By focusing on leadership capability, workplace challenges, and personal growth, the programme prepares participants to navigate complex professional environments and take on greater responsibility and influence.

LEAP Africa Leadership Accelerator Programme Phases

Free Online Course
- The programme begins with a free online course made up of 10 short-paced modules completed over a three-week period. The course addresses key issues affecting women in the workplace and factors that limit professional advancement. The modules were developed based on needs assessments conducted with over 200 respondents, ensuring the content reflects real challenges faced by African women in professional settings.
One-Week Paid Intensive Bootcamp
- Participants who successfully complete the online course within the three-week timeframe will be eligible for a one-week physical bootcamp. The bootcamp brings together high-potential African women aged 23 to 35 who are seeking to advance their careers and secure leadership roles. The experience focuses on practical leadership skills, peer learning, and immersive development sessions.
Capstone Projects
- After the bootcamp, participants will design and implement a capstone project aligned with their leadership goals. These projects serve as a practical application of the skills and insights gained during the programme. Completed projects will be showcased across LEAP Leadership Institute communication channels to inspire other women professionals and promote leadership action.
Three-Month Intensive Mentorship
- Each participant will be paired with an accomplished mentor for a three-month mentorship period. Mentor matching is based on the individual needs identified by participants during onboarding. Mentorship sessions will take place once or twice monthly, focusing on career development, leadership growth, and personal advancement. Monthly check-ins will ensure mentorship goals and outcomes are achieved.

Eligibility Criteria

The programme is open to high-potential African women aged 23 to 35 who are currently working in corporate or entrepreneurial environments and are motivated to grow into leadership roles.