The Council’s Emerging Leaders Program offers an opportunity for exceptional professionals in Chicago to strengthen their leadership skills, deepen their understanding of U.S. foreign policy and global affairs, and become part of a long-term network of influential leaders.
The Class of 2027 will bring together 20 of Chicago’s promising and accomplished leaders for a rigorous, yearlong experience designed to connect global perspectives with local action.
About the Emerging Leaders Program
The Emerging Leaders Program is designed for professionals who are already making an impact in their respective fields and want to expand their knowledge, leadership capabilities, and professional networks.
For one year, a select group of 20 participants will take part in an intensive program focused on:
- U.S. foreign policy
- Global affairs
- Leadership development
- Cross-sector networking
- Global perspectives and local action
Participants come from a wide range of professional backgrounds and organizations across Chicago.
The program brings together leaders from sectors including:
- Finance
- Law
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Government
- Education
- Arts
- Nonprofit organizations
This diversity creates an environment where participants can exchange ideas across industries while developing a broader understanding of global issues.
Class of 2027
Applications are currently open for the 2027 Emerging Leaders class.
The program typically selects 20 of Chicago’s best and brightest professionals, generally between the ages of 30 and 45, who demonstrate strong professional achievement and an interest in global affairs and leadership.
The selected participants will spend a year developing their understanding of international issues while strengthening relationships with other accomplished professionals across Chicago.
What Participants Will Gain
The Emerging Leaders Program is designed to provide participants with both knowledge and long-term professional connections.
1. Greater Understanding of Global Affairs
Participants will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of U.S. foreign policy and global affairs, helping them better understand international developments and their implications for Chicago and the wider world.
2. Leadership Development
The program focuses on strengthening leadership skills among professionals who are already making significant contributions within their organizations and communities.
Participants can use the experience to develop their ability to think strategically, engage with complex global issues, and contribute to meaningful conversations.
3. Cross-Sector Networking
One of the major features of the program is the opportunity to connect with exceptional professionals from different industries.
Participants become part of a community that brings together leaders from business, government, education, healthcare, law, nonprofits, the arts, and other sectors.
4. Lifelong Professional Connections
Completing the yearlong program gives participants access to a broader community of Council Emerging Leaders.
Rather than ending when the program concludes, these relationships can continue through the Council’s alumni network and wider community.
5. Continued Engagement and Impact
After completing the program, Emerging Leaders become part of a premier alumni network and can continue engaging with the Council.
The program is therefore designed not simply as a one-year leadership experience, but as a pathway toward continued professional connection and participation in conversations shaping the global future.
Who Should Consider Applying?
The program is particularly relevant to professionals who:
- Are based in Chicago.
- Are established and exceptional in their professional fields.
- Typically fall within the 30–45 age range.
- Have an interest in U.S. foreign policy and global affairs.
- Want to strengthen their leadership capabilities.
- Value cross-sector collaboration and networking.
- Are interested in connecting global issues with local action.
- Want to become part of a long-term community of influential Chicago leaders.
The information provided specifically describes the program as being for Chicago-based leaders and does not state a particular nationality, race, or citizenship requirement.
Application Deadline
Applications for the Class of 2027 will be accepted until:
September 1, 2026, at 12:00 noon CST
Applicants should ensure that their applications are submitted before the stated deadline.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official application portal.
Why This Program Matters
Chicago is home to professionals working across some of the most influential sectors of society. However, addressing major global challenges requires leaders who can look beyond their individual industries and understand how international developments affect communities, businesses, institutions, and governments.
The Emerging Leaders Program provides a platform for professionals from different backgrounds to develop that broader perspective.
By combining global affairs education, leadership development, professional networking, and long-term alumni engagement, the program aims to create a community of leaders capable of contributing to Chicago while maintaining a strong understanding of the wider world.
Visit HERE to learn more about the Emerging Leaders Program 2027
Conclusion
The Emerging Leaders Program Class of 2027 is an opportunity for accomplished Chicago professionals to expand their knowledge of global affairs, strengthen their leadership skills, and build lasting relationships with other influential leaders across the city.
With only 20 participants selected for the program, prospective applicants should carefully prepare their applications and demonstrate how their professional experience, leadership potential, and global outlook align with the program.
Applications close on September 1, 2026, at noon CST. Interested Chicago professionals should submit their applications before the deadline to be considered for the Class of 2027.
For more global grants, scholarships, fellowships, internships, jobs, conferences, competitions, and other career opportunities for young people, visit the Opportunities for Youth (OFY) website at www.opportunitiesforyouth.org.
