Applications for WE Lead 2025 Cohort

WE Africa’s mission is to empower women leaders across Africa to drive transformative change within the environmental movement through inclusive, collective leadership. Founded out of a necessity to address the crises of biodiversity loss and climate emergency, WE Africa recognizes the urgent need for diverse leadership in tackling these global challenges.

WE Lead Program Overview

WE Lead is an annual 12-month leadership experience designed specifically for women environmental leaders in Africa. Since its inception in 2021, the program has been crafted in collaboration with leadership experts and WE Africa fellows. It is structured around key pillars including personal leadership, wellbeing, collaboration and peacebuilding, visibility for impact, and radical imagination. Graduates of the WE Lead program become part of the WE Move community, amplifying their impact through collective action and mentorship.

What the WE Lead Program Offers:

• Membership in a community of experienced African women leaders in the environmental sector.
• Twelve months of personalized 1:1 leadership coaching.
• Opportunity to redefine your leadership vision and engage in tailored development activities.
• Weekly online sessions to complement your ongoing work.
• Two in-person retreats fostering intensive community-building and personal growth.

To explore more about WE Africa’s transformative journey, review our Program Road Map, meet our current Fellows, and hear directly from them in this video.

Is WE Africa’s Leadership Program for You?

The WE Africa Leadership Program caters to individuals who resonate with the following sentiments:

• Seeking a supportive community within the environmental sector.
• Aspiring to enhance inclusive, collaborative leadership skills.
• Striving to reconnect with personal values and energy.
• Managing team wellbeing in a high-stress environment.
• Considering succession planning and organizational legacy.
• Eager to collaborate and share resources with like-minded leaders.
• Committed to fostering diverse, African leadership within their organization.

Eligibility Criteria

WE Lead is open to women who meet the following criteria:

• African nationals, citizens, or permanent residents of an African country for at least 15 years.
• Minimum 8 years of environmental work experience in Africa, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Commitment to fully participate in the 12-month program.
• Track record of mentorship and support for future environmental leaders.
• Access to reliable internet and ability to attend scheduled sessions.
• Support from your organization or direct report to participate fully.
• Willingness to contribute towards program costs and travel expenses.

Note: Scholarships are available through the WE Africa Xolelwa Hlalu Scholarship Fund based on financial need.

Key Dates

• 01 July: Applications Open
• 16 August: Application Deadline
• 19 September: Candidates Notified for Interviews
• 10-12 October: Final Round Interviews
• 15 November: Public Announcement of 2025 Fellows

Deadline for applications is Friday, 16 August by midnight East Africa Time.

For inquiries regarding the application process, contact us at applications@womenforenvironment.org. To access the application form, please click HERE.