Leading for Humanity 2027: Fully Funded Leadership Programme for Global Changemakers in South Africa

The Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation Leading for Humanity Programme 2027 is inviting nominations for individuals who demonstrate courageous, values-based leadership and a strong commitment to truth, justice, human rights, reconciliation, and societal healing.

This immersive leadership programme brings together a diverse group of emerging and established changemakers for an intensive residential experience focused on personal reflection, courageous conversations, peer learning, Ubuntu, forgiveness, and compassionate leadership.

The programme will take place in South Africa in April 2027 and is open to both South African and international nominees who can travel to Cape Town and Hermanus and participate fully in the residential experience.

The Foundation will cover the programme costs, accommodation, and meals. However, participants or their sponsors will be responsible for travel expenses to and from South Africa.

Application deadline: 14 October 2026

About the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation

The Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation was established to preserve and advance the values, principles, and legacy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Leah Tutu.

The Foundation works to nurture courageous leadership, promote social healing, encourage dialogue, and support a more just, inclusive, and humane society. Its work is rooted in the belief that meaningful social change requires not only technical solutions and institutional action but also moral courage, compassion, accountability, and a commitment to shared humanity.

The Foundation’s programmes seek to inspire people to challenge injustice, overcome social divisions, and contribute to positive change in their communities and wider society.

The Leading for Humanity Programme is one of its flagship initiatives. It reflects Archbishop Tutu’s belief that the world can be transformed through a “million ripples” of courageous action.

What Is the Leading for Humanity Programme?

Leading for Humanity is an immersive leadership-development programme designed to nurture individuals who want to lead with courage, compassion, integrity, and a commitment to justice.

The programme is built around the idea that effective leadership begins with personal transformation. Participants are encouraged to examine their own experiences, assumptions, relationships, and responsibilities before considering how they can contribute to healing and change in society.

The programme combines:

• Residential learning;
• Courageous conversations;
• Peer-to-peer exchange;
• Personal reflection;
• Storytelling;
• Leadership development;
• Exploration of Ubuntu;
• Discussions on justice and reconciliation; and
• Engagement with a diverse community of changemakers.

Rather than focusing only on conventional leadership skills, the programme explores the moral and human dimensions of leadership. It encourages participants to consider how they can act meaningfully in their workplaces, communities, organizations, and wider societies.

The programme’s central premise is that leaders who want to contribute to societal repair must also be willing to engage in the work of self-repair.

Key Themes of the Programme

The Leading for Humanity experience focuses on several interconnected themes that are central to the leadership philosophy of Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

1. Self-Repair for Societal Repair

The programme explores the relationship between personal healing and social transformation.

Participants are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences, wounds, privileges, assumptions, fears, and responsibilities. This process is intended to help them understand how personal experiences influence the way they relate to others and respond to injustice.

The concept of self-repair does not suggest that individuals must be perfect before contributing to social change. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, accountability, emotional honesty, and the willingness to continue growing.

Participants examine how personal transformation can strengthen their ability to contribute to healthier relationships, communities, and institutions.

2. Ubuntu and Compassionate Leadership

Ubuntu is an African philosophy that emphasizes interconnectedness, shared humanity, mutual responsibility, and the idea that people’s lives are deeply connected.

Within the Leading for Humanity Programme, Ubuntu encourages participants to understand leadership as a responsibility to others rather than merely a position of authority.

The programme explores questions such as:

• How can leaders recognize the humanity of others?
• How can leadership become more inclusive and compassionate?
• How can people work across social, professional, cultural, and ideological differences?
• How can communities build relationships based on dignity, respect, and mutual responsibility?

Through peer exchange and group reflection, participants explore how Ubuntu can inform leadership decisions and social action.

3. Forgiveness, Indignation, and Righteous Anger

The programme also examines the complex relationship between forgiveness, anger, injustice, and social change.

Participants are encouraged to explore how anger can emerge from experiences of oppression, discrimination, inequality, and injustice. The programme considers how righteous anger can be transformed into constructive action rather than hatred, violence, or division.

Forgiveness is approached as a complex process rather than a simple requirement to forget harm or excuse wrongdoing. Participants are invited to reflect on how forgiveness, accountability, justice, and reconciliation may interact in personal and social contexts.

4. Finding Purpose and Building a Circle of Courage

Another central theme is the exploration of purpose.

Participants consider what motivates their leadership, what values guide their decisions, and how they can translate their convictions into meaningful action.

The programme also encourages the development of a “Circle of Courage”—a supportive network of people who share a commitment to courageous, compassionate, and justice-oriented leadership.

This community can help participants continue learning, reflecting, collaborating, and acting beyond the residential programme.

Programme Format and Duration

The Leading for Humanity Programme is an 8-day residential leadership journey.

The residential experience is designed to provide an intensive environment in which participants can step away from their normal routines and engage deeply with the programme’s themes.

The programme will take place in April 2027 in South Africa, with activities associated with Cape Town and Hermanus.

Full attendance is mandatory. Nominees should therefore ensure that they can commit to the entire residential programme before being nominated.

The programme may include a combination of:

• Facilitated discussions;
• Group activities;
• Personal reflection;
• Peer exchange;
• Storytelling;
• Leadership exercises;
• Courageous conversations; and
• Engagement with other leaders and thought partners.

The immersive format is intended to create space for meaningful learning and relationship-building among participants from different backgrounds and sectors.

What Participants Will Gain

Successful participants will become part of a carefully selected community of individuals committed to courageous leadership and social change.

The programme is designed to provide several important benefits.

1. Values-Based Leadership Development

Participants will have the opportunity to strengthen their understanding of leadership rooted in:

• Integrity;
• Justice;
• Compassion;
• Accountability;
• Courage;
• Inclusion;
• Human dignity; and
• Shared responsibility.

The programme encourages participants to consider how these values can shape their decisions and actions in real-world situations.

2. Personal Reflection and Self-Awareness

Through guided reflection and challenging conversations, participants will have opportunities to examine their personal leadership journeys and better understand their motivations, strengths, challenges, and areas for growth.

This self-awareness can help participants become more intentional and thoughtful in their leadership roles.

3. Peer Learning and Exchange

The programme brings together individuals from different sectors, professions, communities, cultures, and life experiences.

This diversity creates opportunities for participants to learn from perspectives different from their own, challenge assumptions, and develop a deeper understanding of complex social issues.

4. Exposure to Diverse Changemakers

Participants will connect with people working in different areas of social change, including sectors and communities that may not normally interact with one another.

These relationships can encourage collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of new approaches to social challenges.

5. A Lifelong Community of Purpose

Successful participants will become part of an enduring alumni network connected by shared values and a commitment to leading with humanity.

This network may provide opportunities for continued engagement, collaboration, peer support, and collective action after the residential programme.

6. Fully Funded Programme Participation

The Foundation will cover:

• Programme costs;
• Accommodation; and
• Meals.

This support allows selected participants to focus on the learning experience without bearing the direct costs of the programme itself.

However, travel expenses to and from South Africa are not covered by the Foundation and must be paid by participants or their sponsors.

Who Should Be Nominated?

The Foundation welcomes nominations of individuals who demonstrate the potential and willingness to lead with courage, compassion, and a commitment to justice.

Nominees should ideally demonstrate several of the following qualities.

Leadership Potential and Courage

Nominees should be individuals who are willing to stand up for:

• Truth;
• Human rights;
• Justice;
• Equality;
• Freedom;
• Human dignity; and
• Social responsibility.

They may already be leading initiatives or communities, or they may be emerging leaders who have demonstrated the courage to act on their values.

Leadership does not necessarily mean holding a senior institutional position. The programme recognizes that meaningful leadership can take place in communities, workplaces, civil society, educational institutions, businesses, grassroots movements, and personal networks.

Diversity of Backgrounds and Experiences

The Foundation welcomes individuals from different sectors, professions, age groups, communities, and life experiences.

The programme seeks to build a diverse cohort capable of learning from different perspectives and experiences.

Potential nominees may come from fields such as:

• Civil society;
• Education;
• Business;
• Entrepreneurship;
• Human rights;
• Law;
• Public policy;
• Government;
• Community development;
• Arts and culture;
• Media;
• Research;
• Youth development;
• Environmental action;
• Health;
• Social justice;
• Faith-based organizations; and
• Other areas of public and community life.

The supplied call does not specify a particular academic qualification or professional credential as a mandatory requirement.

Commitment to Societal Repair

Nominees should be willing to engage seriously with the programme’s themes, including personal reflection, difficult conversations, forgiveness, justice, compassion, and social healing.

The programme is intended for individuals who are open to examining their own perspectives and experiences while listening respectfully to others.

Nominees should be prepared to participate in an intensive residential experience and contribute constructively to a diverse learning environment.

South African and International Applicants

The Foundation welcomes nominations from both South Africa and other countries.

International applicants are encouraged to apply, provided they can:

• Travel to South Africa;
• Reach the programme locations in Cape Town and Hermanus;
• Participate fully in the residential programme; and
• Meet any applicable travel and entry requirements.

The Foundation does not state a restriction based on nationality, race, or continent in the supplied call for nominations.

Eligibility and Geographic Scope

The Leading for Humanity Programme is open to individuals from around the world.

The eligibility information indicates that nominees may be:

• South African citizens or residents;
• Applicants from other African countries;
• Applicants from Europe;
• Applicants from Asia;
• Applicants from North America;
• Applicants from Latin America and the Caribbean;
• Applicants from Oceania; or
• Applicants from other regions globally.

However, all nominees must be able to travel to South Africa and participate fully in the required residential programme.

The call does not state a specific age limit, academic degree requirement, professional sector restriction, or nationality quota. Instead, selection emphasizes leadership potential, alignment with the values of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, commitment to social justice, diversity, and readiness for deep engagement.

Learn More Here

Self-Nominations and Nominations by Others

The programme accepts both self-nominations and nominations submitted by other people.

Individuals may nominate themselves, or they may be nominated by:

• Colleagues;
• Mentors;
• Employers;
• Community members;
• Professional networks;
• Organizational leaders; or
• Other people familiar with their leadership work and potential.

This flexible nomination process allows individuals who recognize their own readiness for the programme to apply directly, while also enabling others to recommend promising leaders.

How to Nominate Someone

Applicants and nominators should prepare a nomination package containing the information required by the Foundation.

Step 1: Prepare a Motivation

The nomination should include a motivation explaining:

• Why the nominee demonstrates courageous leadership;
• How the nominee reflects the values associated with Archbishop Desmond Tutu;
• The nominee’s commitment to truth, justice, human rights, or societal healing;
• Why the nominee would benefit from the programme; and
• How the nominee could contribute to the cohort and the wider community.

The motivation should be specific and supported by examples. Rather than relying only on general statements such as “the nominee is a great leader,” the submission should describe concrete actions, initiatives, achievements, or experiences that demonstrate leadership and social commitment.

Step 2: Include the Nominee’s Contact Details

The nomination should provide the nominee’s relevant contact information so the programme team can communicate with them if they are shortlisted.

Step 3: Provide a Brief Biography

The biography should summarize the nominee’s background, leadership experience, community involvement, professional work, and relevant achievements.

It should help the selection team understand who the nominee is and why they may be a strong fit for the programme.

Step 4: Add Supporting Materials

Where available, nominators may include supporting documents such as:

• Curriculum vitae;
• Reference letters;
• Links to relevant projects;
• Evidence of community engagement;
• Leadership portfolios;
• Publications;
• Media coverage; or
• Other materials demonstrating the nominee’s impact and commitment.

Supporting materials should be relevant and should strengthen the nomination rather than overwhelm the selection team with unnecessary information.

Step 5: Submit the Nomination by Email

Nominations should be sent by email to:

shanti@tutu.org.za

The subject line should read:

Leading for Humanity nomination – 2027 cohort

Applicants should ensure that all required information and supporting materials are attached before sending the nomination.

Selection Process

Nominations will be reviewed by the programme team.

The selection process will consider factors such as:

• Demonstrated leadership;
• Alignment with Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s values;
• Commitment to social justice;
• Potential to contribute to societal healing;
• Openness to personal reflection and courageous conversations;
• Diversity of the overall cohort; and
• Ability to participate fully in the residential programme.

The Foundation aims to create a cohort that brings together individuals with different backgrounds and experiences while maintaining a shared commitment to humane, inclusive, and values-based leadership.

Shortlisting and Interviews

Shortlisted nominees will be contacted for interviews and may be asked to provide additional information.

Being nominated does not automatically guarantee selection. Nominees should therefore be prepared to explain their leadership journey, motivation, values, community or professional contribution, and interest in the programme.

Final Cohort Announcement

The final cohort is expected to be announced in early 2027.

Successful nominees will then receive further information about programme arrangements, participation requirements, travel planning, and other relevant details.

Important Funding and Travel Information

The Leading for Humanity Programme is described as fully funded in relation to the residential programme itself.

The Foundation covers:

• Programme costs;
• Accommodation; and
• Meals.

However, participants or their sponsors must cover:

• Flights or other international travel to South Africa;
• Return travel from South Africa;
• Any visa-related costs, where applicable;
• Personal expenses; and
• Other costs not explicitly covered by the Foundation.

International nominees should begin considering travel requirements early, including passport validity, visa eligibility, travel insurance, and the ability to reach Cape Town and Hermanus.

Programme Location

The residential programme will take place in South Africa, with the call specifically referring to Cape Town and Hermanus.

Cape Town is a major cultural, political, and historical center in South Africa. Hermanus, located in the Western Cape, is known for its coastal setting and natural environment.

The locations provide an appropriate setting for a programme focused on reflection, dialogue, leadership, reconciliation, and social healing.

Participants should be prepared to travel between or participate in activities associated with these locations as directed by the Foundation.

Application Deadline

The deadline for nominations is:

14 October 2026

Nominations open on 11 September 2026.

Because places are limited and shortlisted nominees may be invited for interviews or asked to provide additional information, interested applicants and nominators are encouraged to submit their nominations as early as possible.

Key Details at a Glance

Detail	Information
Programme	Leading for Humanity
Cohort	2027
Organizer	Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation
Programme type	Residential leadership-development programme
Duration	8 days
Programme date	April 2027
Location	Cape Town and Hermanus, South Africa
Funding	Programme costs, accommodation, and meals covered
Travel costs	Participant or sponsor responsibility
Eligible applicants	South African and international nominees
Nomination method	Self-nomination or nomination by others
Nomination email	shanti@tutu.org.za
Email subject	Leading for Humanity nomination – 2027 cohort
Nominations open	11 September 2026
Deadline	14 October 2026
Selection announcement	Early 2027

Tips for Preparing a Strong Nomination

A strong nomination should show more than the nominee’s job title or academic achievements. The selection team is looking for evidence of courage, values-based leadership, and a commitment to justice and societal healing.

Consider the following recommendations:

1. Use specific examples.
   Explain what the nominee has done, whom they have served, and what changed as a result of their actions.
2. Demonstrate moral courage.
   Highlight situations in which the nominee stood up for truth, human rights, justice, equality, or dignity.
3. Explain alignment with the programme.
   Connect the nominee’s experience and values to themes such as Ubuntu, forgiveness, self-repair, compassion, and social healing.
4. Show openness to learning.
   Identify why the nominee is ready to engage in personal reflection, courageous conversations, and peer exchange.
5. Explain the nominee’s potential contribution.
   Describe the perspectives, experiences, and knowledge the nominee could bring to a diverse cohort.
6. Confirm availability.
   Ensure the nominee can attend the full residential programme in April 2027.
7. Address travel requirements.
   International nominees should confirm that they can travel to South Africa and make the necessary arrangements.
8. Keep supporting materials relevant.
   Include a concise CV, references, or evidence of impact that strengthens the nomination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Leading for Humanity Programme a scholarship?

No. It is a leadership-development programme rather than an academic scholarship. Participants receive a fully funded residential learning experience, but the programme does not provide a university degree or academic qualification.

Is the programme open to international applicants?

Yes. The Foundation welcomes South African and international nominations. International nominees must be able to travel to South Africa and participate fully in the programme.

Can I nominate myself?

Yes. Self-nominations are welcome.

Can someone else nominate me?

Yes. Nominations may be submitted by colleagues, mentors, employers, community members, or other individuals familiar with the nominee’s leadership potential and work.

Is there a specific academic qualification required?

The supplied call does not specify a mandatory academic degree or professional qualification. Selection is based primarily on leadership potential, values, commitment to social justice, diversity, and readiness to participate fully.

What costs are covered?

The Foundation covers programme costs, accommodation, and meals.

Does the Foundation cover international travel?

No. Participants or their sponsors are responsible for travel to and from South Africa.

Is full attendance required?

Yes. Full attendance at the residential programme is mandatory.

When will the final cohort be announced?

The final cohort is expected to be confirmed in early 2027.

Visit HERE to learn more about the Leading for Humanity 2027 Leadership Programme.

Conclusion

The Leading for Humanity 2027 Programme offers a meaningful opportunity for courageous leaders and changemakers to deepen their leadership practice through reflection, dialogue, peer exchange, and engagement with the values of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Leah Tutu.

The eight-day residential experience is designed to help participants explore the relationship between personal transformation and societal change while developing a stronger moral compass, a deeper understanding of Ubuntu, and a lasting connection to a diverse community of purpose-driven leaders.

The programme welcomes nominations from South Africa and around the world. Individuals may nominate themselves or be nominated by colleagues, mentors, employers, community members, or other people who recognize their leadership potential.

The Foundation covers programme costs, accommodation, and meals, although participants or their sponsors must cover travel expenses to and from South Africa.

Nominations open on 11 September 2026, and the deadline is 14 October 2026. Interested individuals and nominators should prepare a thoughtful motivation, include relevant biographical and supporting information, and submit their nomination to shanti@tutu.org.za with the subject line “Leading for Humanity nomination – 2027 cohort.”

For more information, visit the official Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation website: https://tutu.org.za/

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