Vital Voices Engage Fellowship 2026

Women leaders in public life face many challenges, but programs like the Vital Voices Engage Fellowship 2026 offer real support. This 10-month program helps women build skills in leadership and policy. Backed by Freeport-McMoRan, it focuses on gender equality and bipartisan work to create more inclusive governments worldwide.

Fellowship Overview

The Vital Voices Engage Fellowship 2026 runs from June 2026 to March 2027. It includes bi-weekly virtual meetings and ends with an in-person event. The goal is to boost women’s roles in public office, government, and civic groups. Partners include the Council of World Women Leaders and Harvard Kennedy School professors. Fellows learn about leadership, communications, political strategy, and governance. After finishing, they join a network of over 49,000 women leaders and get ongoing support.

Program Phases

The fellowship has three clear phases to build skills step by step.

Phase 1: Virtual Leadership Skills

This starts with small-group talks on the Vital Voices Leadership Journey. Fellows cover five core practices. Guest speakers from the Vital Voices network share stories and tips.

Phase 2: Virtual Practical Skills

Here, the focus shifts to real-world tools. Fellows study legislative processes, stakeholder work, and advocacy. They practice political strategy, governance, and communications to shape policy and tell strong stories.

Phase 3: In-Person Convening

The program ends with a multi-day meeting. It builds community through peer talks and workshops. Fellows share experiences, form partnerships, and get mentorship. This phase helps them apply lessons across borders and sectors.

Key Benefits

Participants gain strong leadership tools from the Vital Voices Leadership Journey. They improve decision-making, policy influence, and equity work tied to Sustainable Development Goals, especially SDG 5 on gender equality. Fellows join over 190 alumni with virtual events. They also enter the full Vital Voices network for learning and connections. Everyone who completes it gets a certificate.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, women need at least three years in a leadership role in public office, government, civic groups, politics, or policy. They must be 18 by June 2026. Eligible roles include elected officials, party leaders, activists, community leaders, media pros, or civil society heads. Applicants must follow the Vital Voices Leadership Model: innovative, collaborative, mission-driven, community-focused, open to different views, pro-women and girls, and for good governance. A commitment to SDGs is required.

Application Process

The deadline is May 22, 2026. Apply through the official application form. Selected applicants commit to the full program and stay active. Shortlisted candidates may have a 30-minute video interview. Check Vital Voices Engage for details. The program picks only top applicants.

Frequently Asked Questions