The Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program 2025 offers a transformative opportunity for mid-career Canadian professionals to explore global challenges and connect with like-minded individuals committed to creating a more peaceful, prosperous, and pluralist world. This fully funded professional development program brings together diverse individuals from across sectors to collaborate, learn, and consider Canada’s role in addressing critical global and local issues.
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Overview of the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program
The Aga Khan Foundation Canada (AKFC) has designed the Global Leadership Program to equip Canadian professionals with the intellectual insight and practical skills needed to navigate and shape our increasingly complex world. In a time where global forces affect everyone’s quality of life, where interconnectedness is the norm, and challenges require collective action, exercising global leadership has become essential.
The program will run from November 2 to November 6, 2025, in Ottawa, Canada. Participants will engage in a 5-day in-person seminar complemented by virtual learning and coaching sessions before and after the main program. This comprehensive approach ensures participants develop lasting relationships and continue their learning journey beyond the in-person component.
The Aga Khan Foundation is a respected member of the global Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a family of development agencies addressing social, economic, and cultural dimensions of development. Founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, the AKDN has been working to break the cycle of poverty and improve millions of lives across Africa and Asia since 1980.
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Program Benefits and Financial Coverage
The Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program is fully funded, covering:
- Travel expenses from anywhere in Canada to Ottawa
- Accommodation during the in-person program in Ottawa
- Meals throughout the program
- Program materials and resources
- Access to expert faculty and facilitators
- Networking opportunities with a cohort of diverse professionals
- Virtual coaching sessions before and after the in-person program
Beyond the financial benefits, participants gain invaluable experiences and skills that can significantly enhance their professional development and leadership capabilities. The program provides a unique opportunity to connect with professionals from diverse backgrounds, fostering a network of like-minded individuals committed to positive change.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The application process for the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program is straightforward but requires careful preparation. Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Create an account on the AKFC application portal
- Complete the online application form, providing personal and professional information
- Submit a statement of interest explaining why you want to participate in the program and how it aligns with your professional goals
- Provide details about your professional background and experience
- Submit your application by the deadline: June 8, 2025, 11:59 pm ET
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee that considers diverse factors including professional experience, leadership potential, and commitment to creating positive change. Successful applicants will be notified in advance to prepare for the program in November 2025.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program 2025, candidates must:
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada
- Be currently based in Canada
- Be fluent in English
- Be available to travel to and attend the in-person program in Ottawa between November 2 and 6, 2025
- Be committed to joining at least 10 virtual learning and coaching sessions before and after the in-person program
- Have demonstrated leadership experience in their professional field
- Show commitment to addressing global challenges and creating positive change
The program specifically targets mid-career professionals from diverse sectors who are seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities and gain a deeper understanding of global issues. Applicants should have a genuine interest in exploring Canada’s role in addressing international challenges.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program?
The program is open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who are based in Canada. Applicants should be mid-career professionals with demonstrated leadership experience and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities and beyond.
Is the program really fully funded?
Yes, the program is fully funded. All costs related to travel within Canada, accommodation in Ottawa, meals, and program materials are covered by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada. Participants are not required to pay any program fees.
What is the time commitment required for the program?
Participants must commit to attending the 5-day in-person program in Ottawa (November 2-6, 2025) and participating in at least 10 virtual learning and coaching sessions before and after the in-person component. The virtual sessions are designed to prepare participants for the in-person program and help them apply their learnings afterward.
What topics will be covered during the program?
The program explores a range of global and local challenges, focusing on how these issues affect society and what role Canada can play in addressing them. Topics may include climate change, economic inequality, social inclusion, technological disruption, and sustainable development, among others. The exact curriculum may vary based on current global developments.
What are the selection criteria for the program?
Selection is based on a combination of factors including professional experience, leadership potential, commitment to addressing global challenges, and the ability to contribute to and benefit from a diverse cohort of participants. The selection committee aims to create a balanced group representing different sectors, backgrounds, and perspectives.
How can I increase my chances of being selected?
To strengthen your application, clearly articulate your professional achievements, leadership experience, and how participating in the program aligns with your career goals. Demonstrate your commitment to creating positive change and explain how you plan to apply the knowledge and skills gained from the program in your professional context.
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Conclusion and Call to Action
The Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program 2025 offers a unique opportunity for Canadian professionals to enhance their leadership capabilities, gain global perspectives, and connect with like-minded individuals committed to creating positive change. As part of the broader Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership initiative, this fully funded program provides the knowledge, skills, and network necessary to navigate complex global challenges and contribute meaningfully to a more peaceful, prosperous, and pluralist world.
Participants in the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program benefit from a curriculum designed to cultivate ethical, adaptive, and inclusive leadership—qualities essential for tackling today’s most pressing international issues. Whether working in public service, civil society, or the private sector, alumni of the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program emerge equipped to lead with purpose and impact.
If you are a mid-career Canadian professional interested in expanding your horizons and enhancing your leadership skills, don’t miss this opportunity. Mark your calendar for the application deadline: June 8, 2025, 11:59 pm ET. Visit the official Aga Khan Foundation Canada website for more information and to access the application portal.
Invest in your professional development and be part of a network of changemakers shaping a better future for Canada and the world through the Aga Khan Foundation Global Leadership Program.
