We’re looking for values-driven changemakers between the ages of 24-45 who are working to create lasting, positive change in the lives of people in their community.

The Leaders USA program is for people who are driving systems-level change across sectors and fields and have at least three years of demonstrated impact. From expanding access to education to protecting worker’s rights, we are looking for leaders from every corner of the country who are ready to expand their impact and play a role in strengthening our democracy.

The application for the 2023 Leaders USA program is now open and will close on Friday, February 3, 2023, at 12:00 PM U.S. ET. Visit our FAQ page for more information.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

The Obama Foundation Leaders USA program builds upon the Foundation’s work over the past five years to support emerging leaders around the world. The new program will offer 100 U.S-based leaders the opportunity to learn new skills and tools to accelerate positive and lasting change in their communities.

We aim for the Leaders USA cohort to be reflective of the rich diversity in the United States, with representation from across geographies and underrepresented communities, including people from rural communities, people of color, Native Americans, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, immigrants, refugees, and veterans.

Upon completion of the program, Obama Leaders will have gained new skills and ideas as well as a deeper understanding of how to enact change. Leaders will join a growing global alumni network of more than 850 active cross-sector changemakers who are advancing tangible solutions to the greatest challenges of our time.

The program will run from June through November 2023. Leaders will participate in the following core elements of the program:

Weekly Virtual Workshops
Over six months, Leaders will come together for virtual meetings over Zoom to discuss how to move from hope to action through practical tools and training in the values-driven leadership curriculum. They will also engage with trainers, subject matter experts, and each other to deepen their leadership practice.

A Community of Support
The program includes opportunities for Leaders to meet virtually in breakout groups with Leaders from different parts of the country and with Obama Foundation leadership and experts across sectors.

Individual Leadership Coaching
Leaders will be paired with a coach to help them clarify and build out their individual goals.

Community Convening
The Obama Foundation Leaders USA experience will include an in-person convening for deeper community-building, learning, and celebration.