Application Deadline: 14 October 2026
Applications are now open for the 2027 Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation Leading for Humanity Leadership Programme. The Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation invites nominations for the 2026 Leading for Humanity cohort. This flagship programme nurtures a global generation of courageous leaders who embody the values and moral courage of Archbishop Tutu, catalysing the “million ripples” of change needed in the world.
eading for Humanity is an immersive 8-day residential journey that nurtures courageous leaders for truth and justice. Through courageous conversations, peer exchange, and personal reflection, participants explore themes like self-repair, forgiveness, and Ubuntu. The experience builds the moral courage to lead from wherever you are and connects you to a lifelong community of purpose.
Themes
The programme focuses on themes such as:
• Self-repair for societal repair
• Ubuntu and compassionate leadership
• Forgiveness, indignation, and righteous anger
• Finding purpose and building a “Circle of Courage”
Requirements
The programme welcome nominations of individuals who demonstrate:
• Leadership potential and courage – people who stand up for truth, human rights and justice in the spirit of Archbishop Tutu.
• Diversity of backgrounds – leaders of any age, sector or life experience who are ready to engage deeply with themselves and others.
• Commitment to societal repair – individuals willing to engage in vulnerable, challenging conversations and to commit to an intensive residential experience.
• South African or international applicants. Nominees must be able to travel to Cape Town and Hermanus and participate fully in the programme.
Self nominations and nominations by colleagues, mentors, employers or community members are welcome.
How to nominate
- Prepare a motivation outlining why your nominee embodies courageous leadership and how they would contribute to and benefit from the programme.
- Include the nominee’s contact details, a brief biography and any supporting materials (e.g., CV, reference letters).
- Submit the nomination via email at [email protected] with the subject line “Leading for Humanity nomination – 2027 cohort”.
Important Information
• The residential programme will take place in April 2027. Full attendance is mandatory.
• The Foundation covers all programme costs, accommodation, and meals. Participants (or their sponsors) are responsible for travel to and from South Africa.
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. The final cohort will be confirmed by early 2027.
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