Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) has opened applications for the 2026 Global Leadership Program cohort. If you are a Canadian professional looking to explore global challenges, build cross-sector networks, and shape Canada’s role in a more peaceful, prosperous, and pluralist world, this is your moment to apply. Applications close Tuesday, May 19, at 11:59 pm ET.
Program Overview: AKFC Global Leadership Program 2026
- Organization: Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) - an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network
- Program: Global Leadership Program for mid-career Canadian professionals
- Format: Virtual sessions + in-person residency in Ottawa
- Residency Dates: November 1 to 6, 2026 in Ottawa
- Cost: Fully funded - AKFC covers travel from anywhere in Canada, accommodation, and meals
- Apply Online: www.akfc.ca/get-involved/global-leadership-program
- Contact: AKFC-GlobalLeadershipProgram@akdn.org
Important Dates & Timeline
| Milestone | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Deadline | May 19, 2026 at 11:59 pm ET | Applications for 2026 cohort close |
| Information Session | May 4, 2026 at 12:00 pm ET | Virtual info session - recording available |
| Shortlist & Video Interview | Late June to early July 2026 | Shortlisted applicants submit short video |
| Final Selection | By July 31, 2026 | Successful applicants receive invitation |
| Program Launch | September 16, 2026 at 12:00 pm ET | Virtual welcome session |
| Virtual Sessions | September - October 2026 | Peer learning, coaching, alumni connections |
| Ottawa Residency | November 1-6, 2026 | In-person week in Ottawa - fully funded |
About the Global Leadership Program
The Global Leadership Program is a new AKFC initiative designed to equip Canadian professionals with intellectual insight and practical ingenuity to navigate and shape our world. In a complex era where global forces affect our quality of life and challenges require collective action, leadership needs a global perspective.
The program brings together a diverse cohort of mid-career Canadian professionals from across sectors to explore forces shaping our societies and connect with others committed to a more peaceful, prosperous, and pluralist world. Through collaboration and shared learning, participants explore global and local challenges and consider Canada’s role, and their own, in addressing them.
Program Format & Themes
- Peer Learning: Virtual coaching groups and alumni connections from September to October 2026.
- In-Person Residency: Week-long intensive in Ottawa, Nov 1-6, 2026, with simulations like G20, sessions on global politics, climate action, pluralism, and leadership.
- Expert Facilitators: Faculty, guest speakers, and AKFC staff guide discussions on interconnectedness, collective action, and sustainable leadership.
- Fully Funded: Travel from anywhere in Canada, accommodation, and meals for the Ottawa residency are covered by AKFC.
Who Should Apply?
The program targets mid-career Canadian professionals from diverse sectors — business, government, civil society, academia, arts, tech, health, and more. If you’re committed to impact, navigating complexity, and building a future where we all thrive together, this cohort is for you. In 2025, 42 leaders were chosen from over 700 applications.
Testimonials from Global Leaders
- Natasha Lay, 2025: “The program transformed me, reaffirming my commitment to creating positive impact while giving me fuel for sustainable leadership in volatile, complex times. I now see my purpose more clearly.”
- Calum Pinder, 2025: “The program provided me with such an immense amount of learning... being in the presence of so many leaders, each with their own diverse perspectives and insights, massively enhanced the experience.”
- Al-Nashir Charania, 2024: “[The program] has surpassed all expectations… From thought-provoking discussions on climate action to innovative solutions for pluralism, each session ignited inspiration and actionable insights.”
- Onyinye Oguntoye, 2025: “It was a week filled with ideas, laughter, reflection, energy, hope... I’m moving forward with boldness and conviction.”
How to Apply
- Review Details: Check FAQs, watch the 2026 information session recording, or download the program brochure at akfc.ca.
- Prepare Application: Reflect on your leadership journey and how global forces shape your work.
- Submit Online: Apply at www.akfc.ca/get-involved/global-leadership-program before May 19, 2026, 11:59 pm ET.
- Next Steps: Shortlisted candidates will be asked for a short video response in late June/early July 2026.
Final Call: If you’ve been thinking about applying to AKFC’s Global Leadership Program, this is your moment. Join a community of leaders exploring the forces shaping our world — and how Canada and Canadians can respond. We all have a role to play in building a future where we all thrive together.
Questions? Contact AKFC-GlobalLeadershipProgram@akdn.org
Tags: AKFC Global Leadership Program 2026, Aga Khan Foundation Canada, Leadership Programs Canada, Mid-Career Professional Development, Ottawa Residency Program, Fully Funded Leadership Program, Canadian Leaders, Pluralism, Global Affairs Canada, Apply by May 19 2026
