The Aga Khan Foundation Canada’s Global Leadership Program is one of Canada’s most beloved professional development initiatives aimed at empowering socially conscious leaders. Designed by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC), this program offers a transformative journey that combines academic insight with practical leadership training. It is aimed at people who are committed to fostering inclusive societies, advancing sustainable development and shaping a more equitable world.
Scholarship overview
The 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, face-to-face seminars in Ottawa, and a possible learning experience abroad, the program provides a solid framework for leadership improvement. 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 permanent resident of Canada. Must demonstrate fluency in English.
- Must be available to attend the seminar in person in Ottawa from November 2-6, 2025.
- You must commit to attending at least ten virtual sessions spread over several months.
- Must demonstrate a strong personal and professional commitment to global leadership, social equity and sustainable development.
- Preferred candidates are early and mid-career professionals from a variety of industries with a history 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, including personal information, motivational statements and responses to leadership scenarios.
- Upload all required documents, including a resume and letters of reference.
- Submit your application by the deadline: June 8, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET.
- Applicants must prepare for a competitive process, which includes virtual interviews scheduled between June and July 2025.
- Final selections will be announced on August 8, 2025.
Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program Benefits
Successful applicants to the Aga Khan Foundation of Canada Global Leadership Program enjoy numerous benefits, including:
- Full support in travel and accommodation: All travel, accommodation 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 place; waivers are available for those in need.
- Access to Global Experts : Learn from top academics, political leaders and social innovators.
- Professional networking : Join a vibrant national network of change makers and thought leaders.
- Leadership development : deepens understanding of global systems, policy making and ethical leadership.
- Optional international learning : Participate in an immersive experience abroad 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 the Aga Khan Foundation Canada Global Leadership Program?
Although not affiliated with a specific university, the Aga Khan Foundation Canada collaborates with leading Canadian institutions and global partners to provide 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 through the AKFC application portal no later than June 8, 2025.
The program officially begins at September 2025, with pre-seminar virtual sessions, followed by the face-to-face seminar in November, and continued participation until June 2026.
Scholarship Official Website: https://www.akfc.ca/get-involved/global-leadership-program/#1746447750418-127db3ad-8e95
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