Deadline: 12-Dec-2025
The Barack Obama Foundation’s Leaders United States Virtual Leadership Development Program is a six-month, fully virtual experience designed to empower 100 emerging leaders ages 24–45 who are driving systems-level change. The program provides weekly sessions, peer-learning, coaching, and values-based leadership training focused on strengthening democratic culture and pluralism in the United States. Applications close December 12, and selected participants will be notified in June 2026.
Overview
The Barack Obama Foundation’s Leaders United States Program is a virtual leadership development initiative created to inspire, equip, and connect emerging changemakers across the United States. Designed for leaders committed to strengthening democracy and advancing community-based impact, the program supports participants through structured learning, coaching, and collaborative peer engagement.
Program Purpose
The program is built around values-based leadership, emphasizing:
• Strengthening democratic culture
• Advancing pluralism and civic participation
• Supporting systems-level change
• Encouraging collaborative action across communities and sectors
• Empowering leaders to transform ideas into sustained impact
Program Structure
Over a six-month period (September 2026–May 2027), participants will engage in:
• Weekly virtual learning sessions with experts and practitioners
• Values-based leadership training
• Modules on reinforcing democratic systems and collective action
• Peer-learning discussions
• Reflective sessions on leadership practice and strategy
Community of Support
A signature element of the program:
• Leaders join a small group that meets monthly
• Groups discuss insights, explore multiple viewpoints, and practice constructive dialogue
• Sessions foster trust, bravery, and relationship-building
• The model helps leaders navigate cultural and ideological differences productively
Individual Coaching
Participants receive:
• Monthly one-on-one coaching sessions
• Goal clarification and strategy development
• Support in strengthening personal leadership style
• Guidance for advancing long-term impact and sector influence
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Age: 24–45
• Experience: Minimum three years of demonstrated impact
• Residency: Must live in any U.S. state, D.C., tribal lands, or U.S. territories including:
American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Minor Outlying Islands (Bajo Nuevo Bank, Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, Navassa Island, Palmyra Atoll)
• Citizenship/Residency: Must meet the Foundation’s legal and regulatory criteria
• Language: Professionally proficient in English
• Focus: Work must center on positive change within the United States
• Participation: Must be able to attend the full virtual program
• Restrictions: Cannot run in electoral campaigns during the program period
Ideal Candidate Profile
The Foundation seeks:
• Values-driven leaders committed to democratic principles
• Individuals working on community-focused or systems-level change
• Changemakers ready to expand their influence through collaboration
• Leaders from diverse sectors, identities, geographies, and professional backgrounds
• Participants who value pluralism, dialogue, and collective action
Why This Program Matters
The program provides:
• A nationally recognized leadership credential
• Access to a cohort of 100 emerging U.S. leaders
• Training built around democratic resilience and pluralism
• Frameworks for long-term systems impact
• Coaching that supports strategic leadership growth
• Opportunities to join the global Obama leadership network
How the Program Works
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Submit an online application before the December 12 deadline
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Provide details on leadership experience, values, and community impact
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Demonstrate at least three years of measurable contributions
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Confirm eligibility and compliance with program requirements
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Participate in the selection process (no interviews guaranteed)
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Wait for notifications expected in June 2026
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Selected leaders begin the program the week of September 1, 2026
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Engage in weekly virtual sessions and monthly group meetings
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Attend monthly coaching sessions to refine goals and strategies
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Complete all program components by May 1, 2027
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Incomplete descriptions of leadership roles
• Lack of clarity around community or systems-level impact
• Overly broad goals without actionable steps
• Not demonstrating alignment with democratic values or pluralism
• Applying without meeting the age or experience criteria
• Assuming passive participation—this is a high-engagement program
FAQ
1. How many leaders will be selected?
100 U.S.-based leaders.
2. Is the program fully virtual?
Yes, all sessions and coaching are conducted online.
3. Are there any fees to participate?
No, participation is fully funded by the Obama Foundation.
4. Can I apply if I live in a U.S. territory?
Yes. All major territories and outlying islands are eligible.
5. Do I need to be working in government or politics?
No. Applicants come from any sector—nonprofit, business, arts, education, activism, etc.
6. What is the time commitment?
Weekly virtual sessions plus monthly coaching and group meetings for six months.
7. When does the program start and end?
Begins the week of September 1, 2026 and concludes by May 1, 2027.
Conclusion
The Barack Obama Foundation’s Leaders United States Program offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging leaders to deepen their values-based leadership practice, expand their networks, and strengthen democratic culture across the country. With expert guidance, peer learning, and individual coaching, participants gain the tools and relationships needed to drive meaningful, lasting impact in their communities.
For more information, visit The Barack Obama Foundation.
