In 2026, Leader2Leader Abroad launched the Next Level Leader Cohort, an international leadership exchange program for social impact leaders ages 21-35. Selected young leaders were invited to participate in a life-changing travel experience to South Africa. Special consideration given to current HBCU students, HBCU alumni, social entrepreneurs, and international emerging leaders.

The Next Level Leader Cohort began as an opportunity to invite HBCU students & alumni to serve abroad and has evolved to include young adult leaders from Africa and the UK. Our inaugural cohort is receiving support to compete for scholarship funding to attend an elite global summit taking place in Cape Town, South Africa (November 3-6, 2026). This is a competitive application process with final determination made by individual corporate sponsors.

Leader2Leader Abroad has a mission to help young leaders achieve their international career and leadership development goals. Our cross-cultural leadership cohort provides young leaders assistance completing travel scholarship applications, peer-to-peer networking, and monthly leadership opportunities in preparation for the young leaders global summit.

Due to the high volume of interest, cohort members are not guaranteed a travel scholarship award.

1.Leader Information Session: Saturday, January 17, 2026 Promo 2.Next Level Leader Kick-Off Zoom & Orientation: Saturday, February 28, 2026 Promo 11:00 AM EST 3.Monthly Cohort Meetings: Virtual Leadership Sessions take place 1:00 pm EST-2:30 pm EST March-September (2nd Saturdays)

2026 Cohort Applications Are CLOSED