Written by Africa’s next generation of young professionals and early-career changemakers can now apply for the EMERGE Program, a leadership development initiative powered by TheBoardroom Africa and supported by the Mastercard Foundation. This programme is built to help emerging African leaders grow in influence, capability, and impact.
Traditional leadership pipelines often exclude young, purpose-driven Africans focused on impact. EMERGE was launched to fill that gap — equip emerging leaders with the mindset, tools, and connections they need to lead.
Participants benefit from expert-led training, mentorship, and ongoing career support, while building a network across the continent.
Benefits of the Program
- Professional Support: Guidance on personal branding, career strategy, and leadership presence.
- Leadership Development: Training in governance, strategy, sustainability, and personal mastery.
- Talent Marketplace Access: A curated talent pool to connect with leadership roles and high-impact opportunities.
- Pan-African Network: Be part of a growing community of emerging leaders across different African countries.
Who Should Apply / Eligibility
- Early- to mid-career professionals based in Africa who show strong leadership potential.
- Individuals committed to long-term impact: scaling projects, influence, governance or social initiatives.
- Motivation to learn, grow, and give back to the continent.
How It Works / Application Process
- Apply Online: Visit the EMERGE website to fill out the application.
- Take the Leadership Compass: After applying, you will complete a leadership diagnostic that maps your strengths and growth areas.
- Receive a Leadership Navigator Report: This personalised report helps guide your leadership development journey.
- Begin the Programme: Once accepted, you join training cohorts, mentorship, and talent-matching processes.
Key Considerations / Tips for Applicants
- Be clear about your leadership aspirations: Explain in your application what leadership means to you and how EMERGE can help.
- Show your impact: Use concrete examples (projects, work experience, community engagement) to highlight where you have already demonstrated leadership or potential.
- Commitment is key: EMERGE is not just a workshop — it’s a journey. Be ready to engage actively in training, self-reflection, and networking.
- Leverage the Talent Marketplace: Think ahead about how you might use EMERGE’s talent-matching feature to find meaningful roles, not just short-term gain.
- Be authentic: The programme values real ambition, curiosity, and a growth mindset — your real story goes further than a “perfect” CV.
How to Apply
Apply here: EMERGE – Emerging Leaders in Africa
Complete the online form, take the Leadership Compass, and submit required documentation to start your EMERGE journey.