Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program stands as one of Canada’s most esteemed professional development initiatives aimed at empowering socially conscious leaders. Designed by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), this program offers a transformative journey that merges academic insight with practical leadership training. It targets individuals who are committed to fostering inclusive societies, advancing sustainable development, and shaping a more equitable world.
Scholarship Overview
Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program is not a traditional academic scholarship but a highly selective leadership development program. Through a hybrid model that includes online modules, in-person seminars in Ottawa, and a potential overseas learning experience, the program delivers a robust framework for leadership enhancement. Participants will engage with pressing global challenges such as climate change, gender equity, ethical governance, and the implications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution all under the guidance of leading experts and practitioners.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for this prestigious program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.Must demonstrate fluency in English.
- Must be available to attend the in-person seminar in Ottawa from November 2–6, 2025.
- Must commit to attending at least ten virtual sessions spread over several months.
- Must show a strong personal and professional commitment to global leadership, social equity, and sustainable development.
- Preferred candidates are early- to mid-career professionals across diverse sectors with a track record of community engagement or leadership.
Application Procedures
Interested candidates should follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official AKFC Global Leadership Program Application Portal.
- Create a secure applicant profile.
- Complete the detailed application form, which includes personal information, motivation statements, and responses to leadership scenarios.
- Upload all required documents, including a résumé and letters of reference.
- Submit the application before the deadline: June 8, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET.
- Applicants should prepare for a competitive process, including virtual interviews scheduled between June and July 2025.
- Final selections will be announced on August 8, 2025.
Benefits of Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program
Successful applicants to the Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- Full Travel and Accommodation Support: All travel, lodging, and meals for the in-person seminar in Ottawa are fully funded.
- Nominal Participation Fee : Participants pay a symbolic fee of CAD 100 to confirm their slot; waivers are available for those in financial need.
- Access to Global Experts : Learn from top scholars, policy leaders, and social innovators.
- Professional Networking : Join a vibrant national network of changemakers and thought leaders.
- Leadership Development : Deepen your understanding of global systems, policy-making, and ethical leadership.
- Optional International Learning : Engage in an overseas immersive experience scheduled for April 2026, subject to confirmation.
- Lifelong Learning Community: Stay connected with a network of alumni driving positive change in Canada and beyond.
Why Choose Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program?
Although not linked to a specific university, the Aga Khan Foundation Canada collaborates with leading Canadian institutions and global partners to offer a world-class professional experience.
The program is uniquely positioned at the intersection of diplomacy, development, and leadership training.
Participants benefit from rigorous academic discourse, hands-on learning, and exposure to real-world challenges making it an ideal platform for those aspiring to shape public policy, lead social enterprises, or impact communities at scale.
Application and Deadline
To apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program 2025–26, candidates must submit their completed application via the AKFC Application Portal no later than June 8, 2025.
The program officially begins in September 2025, with virtual pre-seminar sessions, followed by the in-person seminar in November, and continued engagement through to June 2026.
Official Scholarship Website: https://www.akfc.ca/get-involved/global-leadership-program/#1746447750418-127db3ad-8e95