Deadline: 25-Jan-2026
The Global Entrepreneurs and Leaders Academy (GELA) offers a hybrid, globally collaborative mentorship and skills program for youth aged 18–35, focusing on employability, leadership, and social impact. The initiative targets marginalized and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups, providing soft-skills training, mentorship, international exposure, certification, and internship or job opportunities. Applications for the 2026 cohort are open until January 25, 2026, with the program running from February 1 for three months.
Overview
The GELA initiative bridges the global youth unemployment gap by training and deploying young leaders into politics, business, and civil service. It combines mentorship, skills training, and digital resources to empower marginalized youth, people of color, and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals. The program fosters leadership, employability, and global collaboration in a gamified, safe, and interactive environment.
Program Objectives
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Develop soft and technological skills for youth aged 18–35
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Provide structured mentorship for career growth in politics, business, and civil service
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Promote inclusivity and representation for marginalized and disadvantaged communities
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Create global networking opportunities and digital access to high-quality resources
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Equip participants with internationally recognized certification and post-program career opportunities
Who Is Eligible?
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Youth aged 18–35 years
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Access to a reliable internet connection
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Willingness to learn, embrace diversity, and expand professional networks
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Ability to complete the Pre-assessment form upon enrolment
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Passionate individuals demonstrating readiness for leadership and professional development
Program Components and Benefits
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Soft-skills and leadership training for personal and professional growth
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Self-image and character development
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GELA Skillup-360 digital hub providing live sessions, audio/video recordings, and textual resources from global mentors
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Three-month mentorship curriculum with certification from GELA, a United Nations affiliated social enterprise
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Virtual foreign exposure through international mentors and sessions
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Internship and job placement opportunities post-program completion
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Global networking with peers and mentors across continents
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Gamified learning environment with rewards to encourage engagement and achievement
Program Structure
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Application and Pre-assessment: Applicants submit information and complete the pre-assessment form
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Selection: Approximately 80–100 participants selected worldwide, ensuring continental representation
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Program Commencement: February 1, 2026
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Duration: Three months of mentorship, training, and virtual engagement
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Certification & Career Support: Participants receive GELA certification and access to internships/job placement support
How to Apply / What to Do
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Visit the official GELA application portal
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Submit personal details and pre-assessment form before January 25, 2026
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Highlight motivation, willingness to learn, and commitment to leadership development
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Await rolling selection notifications
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Engage in the program from February 1, 2026, for three months
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Complete mentorship modules, participate in sessions, and fulfill program requirements for certification
Tips for Applicants
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Emphasize personal leadership potential, passion, and commitment to social impact
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Ensure reliable internet access for full program participation
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Actively engage in virtual sessions and mentorship activities
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Leverage the program’s networking opportunities to build global connections
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Prepare to complete all modules and assessments for certification
FAQ
1. What is the age limit for participants?
18–35 years.
2. Is there a fee to participate in the program?
The program is largely free for selected participants, though valued at USD 100 per participant.
3. How long does the program last?
Three months, starting from February 1, 2026.
4. What benefits do participants receive?
Soft-skills training, mentorship, international exposure, certification, networking, and post-program internship/job opportunities.
5. How are participants selected?
Selection is based on readiness, leadership potential, engagement in pre-assessment, and ensuring continental representation.
6. Do I need prior professional experience?
No prior experience is required, but willingness to learn and engage is essential.
7. Can participants from all continents apply?
Yes, the program accepts global applicants with a focus on inclusivity and diversity.
Conclusion
The GELA 2026 program provides young leaders a unique opportunity to enhance employability, leadership, and global collaboration skills. By participating, youth gain access to mentorship, certification, and career opportunities while contributing to social impact and expanding their professional networks. This initiative empowers marginalized and diverse youth to achieve leadership excellence across politics, business, and civil service.
For more information, visit GELA.