The Rise on Boards Program is now accepting applications from young women and gender-marginalized youth who are passionate about leadership and community engagement, with a deadline of April 30, 2026. This global program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to develop their skills and confidence in governance, leadership, and decision-making. By applying to the Rise on Boards Program, you can take the first step towards becoming a leader in your community and making a positive impact on the world.
About the Opportunity
The Rise on Boards Program is an initiative of the Fora Network for Change, a organization dedicated to empowering underrepresented voices and promoting diversity in leadership positions. The program is designed to provide a structured learning experience that focuses on governance, leadership, and decision-making, with the goal of equipping young women and gender-marginalized youth with the skills and confidence to serve on boards and lead effectively. This is particularly important for Africans, who have historically been underrepresented in leadership positions, and who can benefit from programs like Rise on Boards to develop their skills and gain experience in governance and decision-making.
The Rise on Boards Program is part of a broader effort to address the leadership gap that exists in many organizations and communities, where underrepresented groups are often excluded from decision-making positions. By providing training and mentorship to young women and gender-marginalized youth, the program aims to create a more diverse and inclusive leadership landscape, where everyone has an equal opportunity to participate and contribute. This is especially important in Africa, where women and marginalized groups often face significant barriers to leadership, and where programs like Rise on Boards can play a critical role in promoting social justice and equality.
The program’s focus on governance, leadership, and decision-making is also critical, as these are essential skills for anyone who wants to make a positive impact in their community. By learning about governance and board readiness, participants can develop a deeper understanding of how organizations work, and how they can contribute to their success. The program’s emphasis on applied, hands-on learning and mentorship from experienced leaders also provides participants with the opportunity to gain practical experience and build relationships with people who can support and guide them in their leadership journey.
Who Can Apply
The Rise on Boards Program is open to young women and gender-marginalized youth from around the world, who are passionate about leadership and community engagement, and who want to develop their skills and confidence in governance, leadership, and decision-making.
- Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 29, and must identify as a young woman or gender-marginalized youth.
- Applicants must be interested in community engagement and leadership, and must be willing to commit to the program’s training and mentorship activities.
- Applicants must be fluent in English or French, as the program’s training and materials will be delivered in one of these languages.
- Applicants must be available to participate in the program’s live training sessions, and must have access to a computer or mobile device with a stable internet connection.
What You Will Gain
By participating in the Rise on Boards Program, you can gain a range of skills and benefits that will support your leadership development and career advancement.
- Knowledge of governance and board readiness, including an understanding of how organizations work, and how to contribute to their success.
- Confidence navigating power and accountability, including the ability to communicate effectively, and to build relationships with people at all levels of an organization.
- Strategic decision-making skills, including the ability to analyze complex problems, and to develop effective solutions.
- Access to a global network of peers and mentors, including the opportunity to connect with other young leaders, and to learn from experienced professionals in your field.
- Practical experience in governance, leadership, and decision-making, including the opportunity to apply your skills and knowledge in a real-world setting.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to develop your skills and confidence in governance, leadership, and decision-making. Deadline: April 30, 2026. Start your application early, and take the first step towards becoming a leader in your community.
How to Apply for Rise on Boards Program – Applications Open
To apply for the Rise on Boards Program, you will need to submit an application through the program’s website, including your contact information, a personal statement, and any supporting documents that may be required. You can start by reviewing the program’s eligibility criteria, and by gathering any materials that you may need to support your application. Once you have submitted your application, you will be contacted by the program’s staff, who will provide you with further instructions and guidance on the next steps in the process.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The Rise on Boards Program is a unique opportunity for young women and gender-marginalized youth to develop their skills and confidence in governance, leadership, and decision-making. By applying to the program, you can take the first step towards becoming a leader in your community, and making a positive impact on the world. So don’t wait – apply now, and start your journey towards a brighter future: apply today and rise to the challenge of leadership.

