LeadNext: Ambassadors for a Global Future

Equips emerging leaders across cultures and disciplines with strong international networks, exposure to wide-ranging experiences, and leadership tools to thoughtfully steer the future.

Overview

LeadNext is focused on building “transformative” leaders – leaders who inspire change – by supporting them in the nascent stages of their careers. A global world calls for a new generation of leaders who can think globally and communicate cross-culturally. Exchange between the U.S. and Asia is vital. LeadNext provides a rigorous curriculum and an intense, shared experience that give fellows a lens on global citizenship and a framework for leadership that is grounded in empathy and self-awareness.

Positive change will depend on passionate leaders who can move ideas and action forward and empower communities most vulnerable and insecure. The LeadNext program equips emerging leaders across cultures and disciplines with strong international networks, exposure to wide-ranging experiences, and leadership tools to thoughtfully steer the future.

LeadNext Fellows are dynamic emerging leaders from any field with a commitment to creative approaches to addressing issues such as climate change, conflict, inequity, injustice, poverty, or other pressing issues.

Eligibility

Applicants must be:

  • A U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA recipient
  • Aged 18-25 years old during the program year
  • Fully conversant in English
  • Able to commit to attending ALL sessions with an understanding of working across many time zones

Award

Leadership Training Intensive (Feb-Mar 2024): Fellows meet 1-3 times a week over several weeks to build competencies in social change leadership. Fellows explore how unique experiences are the foundation of their leadership strengths and gain tools for self-awareness, public speaking, and elevating impact. The intensive emphasizes collaboration and exchange. Fellows work together to expand their understanding of globalization and global citizenship and share perspectives from their unique backgrounds and experiences.

Monthly Virtual Masterclasses (Mar-Jun 2024): Global experts provide exposure to the real-world experiences of leaders in the United States and Asia addressing a range of 21st century issues. Fellows develop lasting skills, tools, and frameworks to better understand the policies and ecosystems that drive impact. They study complex issues, processes, and challenges related to social change in the United States and Asia and bring their collective experiences to bear on these discussions.

Global Leaders Summit (Week of July 14, 2024): The 2024 capstone convening will be held in the San Francisco Bay Area. Fellows will deepen and expand their learning through rigorous exchange, continued leadership development, and tools to tackle 21st century challenges. They will also gain exposure to cutting-edge approaches and best practices in innovative leadership.

Mentorship: Fellows are paired with a professional mentor based on their specific interests. These mentors are drawn from the Foundation’s broad network to connect emerging leaders with recognized leaders, influencers, and shapers.

Application Status

Closed (will open in Fall 2024)

National Deadline

TBA

Learn more about LeadNext: Ambassadors for a Global Future