Call for Applications: Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program 2026

The Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program is a flagship leadership development initiative designed to equip mid-career Canadian professionals with the perspectives, skills, and collaborative mindset needed to respond to an increasingly interconnected world. The program is built on the understanding that global challenges require shared solutions and leaders who can operate effectively across sectors, cultures, and systems.

In a world shaped by complex global forces, the program aims to strengthen participants’ ability to think systemically, act collaboratively, and lead with purpose in pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous, and pluralist society.

Program Purpose and Vision

The Global Leadership Program is grounded in the belief that leadership today requires a global outlook combined with local understanding. It brings together professionals from diverse sectors to explore the social, political, economic, and environmental forces shaping contemporary societies.

The program focuses on enabling participants to:

• Develop a global perspective on leadership and development challenges
• Understand interconnected global and local systems
• Reflect on Canada’s role in addressing global issues
• Strengthen collaborative leadership and cross-sector engagement
• Contribute to building inclusive and sustainable communities

Participants are encouraged to reflect not only on global challenges but also on their own leadership roles within them.

Program Structure and Learning Experience

The Global Leadership Program is structured as a blended learning experience combining virtual engagement with an intensive in-person residency. It is designed to foster dialogue, peer learning, and practical application of leadership concepts.

Key components include:

• Virtual welcome and orientation sessions
• Peer learning and group coaching activities
• Interactive sessions with program alumni
• Expert-led discussions and thematic workshops
• An immersive in-person residency in Ottawa

The residency offers participants the opportunity to engage deeply with case studies, simulations, and collaborative exercises that mirror real-world global challenges.

Important Dates – 2026 Cohort

Applications for the 2026 cohort are now open, with a structured selection and program timeline:

• 21 April 2026 – Applications open
• 19 May 2026 (11:59 pm ET) – Application deadline
• Late June – Early July 2026 – Shortlisted candidates submit video responses
• 31 July 2026 – Successful applicants notified
• 16 September 2026 – Virtual program launch session
• September – October 2026 – Virtual learning sessions and peer engagement
• 1–6 November 2026 – In-person residency in Ottawa

All travel, accommodation, and meals for the residency are fully funded for selected participants, ensuring accessibility for leaders from across Canada.

Eligibility Criteria

The program is designed for mid-career professionals from across sectors. Ideal candidates are individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to addressing global challenges.

Applicants are expected to:

• Be based in Canada
• Be mid-career professionals from any sector (public, private, civil society, or academic)
• Demonstrate interest in global issues and systems thinking
• Show commitment to leadership development and collaborative learning
• Be willing to engage in both virtual and in-person program components

The program values diversity of experience, background, and perspective, bringing together a cohort of leaders from varied professional and cultural contexts.

Themes and Focus Areas

The Global Leadership Program explores a range of interconnected global themes, helping participants better understand the systems shaping today’s world. These include:

• Climate change and environmental sustainability
• Global governance and international cooperation
• Social inclusion and pluralism
• Economic inequality and development
• Peacebuilding and conflict transformation
• Innovation and leadership in complex systems

Through facilitated discussions and practical exercises, participants examine how these issues intersect and how leadership can influence meaningful change.

Facilitators and Learning Approach

The program is led by experienced facilitators, guest speakers, and practitioners from diverse fields. Sessions are designed to be interactive, reflective, and applied, encouraging participants to engage critically with ideas and each other.

Learning methods include:

• Dialogue-based sessions
• Case study analysis
• Leadership simulations
• Peer-to-peer learning groups
• Expert talks and panel discussions

This approach ensures participants not only gain knowledge but also develop practical leadership capabilities.

Alumni Experience and Impact

Graduates of the program form a growing network of leaders who continue to collaborate beyond the program. Alumni consistently highlight the transformative nature of the experience, noting its impact on both personal and professional development.

Common themes in participant reflections include:

• Enhanced clarity of leadership purpose
• Stronger understanding of global systems
• Expanded professional networks
• Increased confidence in leading complex initiatives
• Long-term commitment to social impact and collaboration

Alumni remain connected through ongoing engagement opportunities and knowledge-sharing platforms.

Application Process

Interested applicants are required to submit an online application within the defined application window. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to submit a video response as part of the selection process.

Successful applicants are notified by the end of July 2026 and formally onboarded into the cohort during the virtual launch session in September.

About AKFC

The Aga Khan Foundation Canada is part of the broader Aga Khan Development Network, which works globally to improve quality of life and promote inclusive development. The Global Leadership Program reflects this mission by investing in leadership that is capable of addressing today’s most pressing global challenges.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the program. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.