Young African women who play major roles in Africa’s development and revolution, there is a chance for you to be supported and showcased in the Women in Africa Programme. This special programme is sponsored by WIA Philanthropy in partnership with Dior, the French investment bank Lazard in France, the Audit and Consulting firm, KPMG.

Requirements

To be eligible to be part of the Women in Africa Programme, you have to meet the following requirements:

• Be aged between 25 and 40 years. The age flexibility is possible depending on the individual’s experience level.
• Be born in an African country or have parents born in an African country.
• Be fluent in several languages. Could be Francophone, Anglophone, or Lusophone.
• Have strong leadership skills like humility, empathy, resilience.
• Be involved in the development of the continent of Africa.
• Be able to take on responsibilities at the highest level.

Benefits

• As a participant, you will enjoy high-level networking with CEOs, ministers, journalists, public figures, accomplished business leaders, and entrepreneurs.
• Have access to customised trainings based on your individual needs.
• Get visibility through the Women in Africa’s communication channels and media presence.
• Each awardee is assigned a mentor (an international leader profile).

Application Timeline

JUNE – JULY 2025: Selection process

Candidates are carefully reviewed based on their academic achievements, career success, leadership abilities, and commitment to making a positive impact. The selection committee narrows down the pool to a shortlist of outstanding individuals.

JULY – AUGUST 2025: Interview with the Jury

Shortlisted candidates proceed to a final interview stage, where they meet with a panel of 12 international jury members. These interviews allow candidates to showcase their ambitions, leadership potential, and personal journeys.

SEPTEMBER 2025: Official Announcement

Once the selection process is complete, the new cohort of WIA Young Leaders is officially announced online and in the press. This public announcement celebrates the achievements and potential of these outstanding young African women and introduces them to a global audience.

NOVEMBER-December 2025: Learning Expedition

The selected WIA Young Leaders are then invited on an exclusive business trip to Paris. During this journey, they have the opportunity to engage in high-level networking, attend specialized workshops, and meet influential figures in business, philanthropy, and social leadership. This experience is designed to broaden their perspectives, enhance their professional networks, and provide valuable insights for their future careers.

Application Deadline: June 19, 2025

For more details, kindly visit the official website of the Women in Africa (WIA) Young Leaders Programme