Application Deadline: May 19, 2026
For professionals trying to expand their influence beyond local impact, global leadership today demands more than technical expertise; it requires perspective, adaptability, and the right network. That’s exactly where the AKFC Global Leadership Program steps in, bringing together ambitious Canadian professionals ready to engage with real-world challenges on a broader stage.
Led by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada, this initiative brings mid-career professionals into a space where ideas are tested, challenged, and refined alongside peers from diverse sectors. It’s not just about learning concepts; it’s about understanding how global forces like climate change, economic shifts, and social dynamics directly shape decisions in your own field.
What makes this experience stand out is how it blends flexibility with depth. Participants begin with virtual learning sessions and peer coaching, allowing them to stay grounded in their current roles while gradually building a global lens. Then comes the in-person residency in Ottawa, a focused, immersive environment where collaboration becomes more intense and meaningful.
In practical terms, this means stepping into real conversations with policymakers, development experts, and fellow professionals who are actively shaping global discussions. You’re not just observing, you’re contributing, questioning, and refining your own leadership approach.
A detail many applicants overlook is how much the network matters here. The connections built during this program often extend far beyond the sessions themselves, opening doors to collaborations, partnerships, and long-term career growth.
Eligibility
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Fluent in English
- Available for the in-person residency in Ottawa (November 1–6, 2026)
- Willing to participate in virtual sessions before and after the residency
- Demonstrate openness to learning, collaboration, and dialogue
- Committed to ongoing engagement as part of the alumni network
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Benefits
- Travel costs from anywhere in Canada are fully covered for the residency
- Accommodation and meals during the Ottawa residency are provided
- Direct engagement with global experts, policymakers, and thought leaders
- Access to a diverse, cross-sector network of professionals
- Long-term value through alumni connections and continued collaboration
This matters especially for candidates based outside major cities, where access to high-level networks and in-person global discussions can be limited. The residency effectively removes that barrier.
Application
Applications close on May 19, 2026, and the selection process moves quickly after that.
- Submit your online application through the portal
- Shortlisted candidates will record a short video response (June–July 2026)
- Final invitations are sent by July 31, 2026
- The program begins with a virtual session in September, followed by the residency in November
From experience, strong applicants usually show clear alignment between their current work and broader global challenges, not just general interest in leadership.
How to Apply
For more details, visit AKFC Global Leadership Program.
