Leadership Accelerator Programme (LEAP) for Young African Women 2026 | Link to Apply
The Leadership Accelerator Programme (LEAP) is an initiative of LEAP Africa, a youth-focused leadership development organization committed to raising transformative leaders across Africa.
Through strategic interventions for young people, the organization bridges critical gaps in five key areas: Education, Entrepreneurship, Employability, Active Citizenship, and Health & Wellbeing.
The Leadership Accelerator Programme is a capacity-building initiative designed to address gender disparities in women’s leadership across the African continent.
Specifically tailored for high-potential young African women in corporate environments, the programme equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and networks required to advance into leadership positions.
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Programme Overview
- Type: Accelerator Programme
- Location: Online (with a physical bootcamp component)
- Sponsor: LEAP Africa
- Duration: 3 Months
- Eligibility: Young African women aged 23–35
- Benefits: Mentorship and training, networking opportunities, free online courses, brand visibility, and more
- Application Deadline: February 28, 2026
Programme Phases
1. Free Online Course
Participants will complete 10 short-paced online modules over a three-week period.
The course focuses on critical workplace challenges that affect women’s professional growth and advancement.
The modules were developed following a comprehensive needs assessment conducted by the Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning Team, with insights gathered from over 200 respondents.
2. One-Week Paid Intensive Bootcamp
The Bootcamp is a one-week physical event designed for participants who successfully complete the online course within the designated three-week onboarding period.
It brings together ambitious young African women seeking to accelerate their careers and secure leadership roles within their organizations or industries.
3. Capstone Projects
Upon completing the leadership Bootcamp, participants will undertake a capstone project based on a leadership initiative they have identified.
This project serves as the practical application of the knowledge and insights gained during the programme. Capstone projects will be widely shared across LEAP Leadership Institute communication channels to inspire and engage other female professionals to participate in or replicate similar initiatives.
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4. Three-Month Intensive Mentorship
Participants will be paired with experienced mentors based on their individual development needs, as identified in their application forms.
- Duration: 3 months
- Meeting Frequency: Once or twice monthly, based on a mutually agreed schedule
- Focus Areas: Career development, leadership growth, and personal advancement
- Support: Monthly check-ins to ensure mentorship objectives are achieved
Application Deadline: February 28, 2026
