Obama Foundation Leaders Program

The Obama Foundation Leaders program identifies and invests in civic leaders from around the world who are working to solve problems in their communities. Launched by President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama, the program reflects the Foundation's core belief that the next generation of leaders can be found in every community — they just need the tools, networks, and platform to amplify their impact.

The program operates through multiple tracks, including the flagship Leaders USA and Leaders Africa & Europe cohorts. Participants engage in intensive programming that blends leadership development, community organizing principles, values-based leadership training, and peer learning. All costs — including travel, accommodations, and programming — are covered by the Foundation.

What makes the Obama Foundation Leaders program distinctive is its emphasis on civic leadership rather than social enterprise. Fellows are not required to run an organization; they may be community organizers, public servants, artists, educators, or activists. The program explicitly seeks leaders from underrepresented communities whose voices are often excluded from traditional fellowship pipelines.