Application Deadline: June 19, 2025

The WIA Young Leaders program aims at supporting and highlighting young African women leaders who will play a major role in the African revolution. Women In Africa (WIA) Philanthropy is proud to announce the launch of the 4th edition of the WIA Young Leaders program, in partnership with Dior, the French investment bank Lazard in France, the Audit and Consulting firm KPMG.

Requirements

25 to 40 years old

Flexibility possible depending on experience level

African

Born in an African country or having parents born in an African country

Francophone, Anglophone, Lusophone

Ideally speaking several languages

Leadership skills

Humility, empathy, resilience

Involvement and vision

Involvement in the development of the continent

Self-made

& Ability to take on responsibilities at the highest level

Benefits

HIGH-LEVEL NETWORKING

with CEOs, ministers, journalists, public figures, accomplished business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

TRAINING PROGRAM

with board training, media training, career coaching, women’s leadership, customized training based on individual needs.

VISIBILITY

through WIA’s communication channels and media presence.

MENTORSHIP

Each awardee is assigned a mentor (an international leader profile).

LEARNING EXPEDITION

in the third quarter with a business trip organized in a major global economic capital.

Application Timeline:

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.

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. 

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.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Women in Africa (WIA) Young Leaders Programme