WE Africa's mission is to empower women leaders across Africa to drive transformative change in the environmental movement through inclusive and collective leadership. Founded out of the need to address the crises of biodiversity loss and climate emergency, WE Africa recognises the urgent need for diverse leadership in addressing these global challenges.
Overview of the WE Lead programme
WE Lead is an annual 12-month leadership experience designed specifically for women environmental leaders in Africa. Since its creation in 2021, the programme has been designed in collaboration with leadership experts and WE Africa fellows. It is structured around key pillars, including personal leadership, well-being, collaboration and peace-building, visibility for impact and radical imagination. Graduates of the WE Lead programme become part of the WE Move community, amplifying their impact through collective action and mentoring.
What the WE Lead programme offers:
- Participation in a community of experienced African women leaders in the environmental sector.
- Twelve months of personalised 1:1 leadership coaching.
- Opportunity to redefine your leadership vision and take part in personalised development activities.
- Weekly online sessions to complement your ongoing work.
- Two face-to-face retreats that promote intensive community building and personal growth.
To explore more about WE Africa's transformative journey, take a look at our Programme itinerary , get to know our current scholarship holders and listen to them directly on this video .
Is the WE Africa Leadership Programme for you?
The WE Africa Leadership Programme caters for individuals who resonate with the following sentiments:
- Looking for a supportive community within the environmental sector.
- Aspiring to hone inclusive leadership skills and collaborative .
- Striving to reconnect with personal values and energy.
- Managing team well-being in a high-stress environment.
- Considering succession planning and organisational legacy.
- Looking forward to collaborate and share resources with like-minded leaders.
- Committed to promoting diverse African leadership within their organisation.
Election criteria
WE Lead is open to women who meet the following criteria:
- African citizens, citizens or permanent residents of an African country for at least 15 years.
- Minimum of 8 years of professional environmental experience in Africa, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
- Commitment to participate fully in the 12-month programme.
- History of guidance and support for future environmental leaders.
- Reliable internet access and the ability to attend scheduled sessions.
- Support from your organisation or direct subordinate to participate fully.
- Willingness to contribute to programme costs and travel expenses.
Note: Scholarships are available through the WE Africa Xolelwa Hlalu Scholarship Fund on the basis of financial need.
Important dates
- 01 July: registration open
- 16 August: application deadline
- 19th September: Candidates notified for interviews
- 10 to 12 October: Final round of interviews
- 15 November: Public Announcement of 2025 Scholars
The deadline for entries is Friday 16 August at midnight, East African time.
