Henry Izuu 
TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program 2026: Apply Now
About the Program
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program is a flagship talent development initiative designed to accelerate leadership growth across Africa. This transformative program addresses a critical gap in traditional leadership models by focusing specifically on the unique challenges and opportunities faced by emerging African leaders.
Powered by TheBoardroom Africa and generously supported by the Mastercard Foundation, the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program aims to redefine leadership development for Africa’s next generation of changemakers. The program equips emerging leaders with the mindset, tools, and connections they need to thrive and drive transformative change across the continent.
Recognizing that 77% of Africa’s population is under 35, the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program harnesses the potential of young professionals poised to become the continent’s future leaders.
Eligibility Requirements
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program seeks candidates who demonstrate specific qualities and meet clear criteria:
Who Can Apply?
- Age Range: Individuals aged 25–35 years old
- Location: Must be based in Africa
- Career Stage: Early- to mid-career professionals working across the continent
- Leadership Potential: Demonstrated high potential, ambition, and strong leadership capabilities
- Commitment Level: Dedication to long-term impact through scaling projects, expanding influence, pursuing governance roles, or advancing social initiatives
- Mindset: Motivation to learn, grow, and contribute to Africa’s development
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program is ideal for emerging leaders committed to accelerating their leadership journey and driving meaningful change in their communities or industries.
Benefits
Participation in the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program is fully funded, removing financial barriers to accessing world-class leadership development. The program offers four integrated pillars of support:
1. Professional Support
Participants receive expert guidance to confidently navigate their career journeys, including:
- Personal branding strategies
- Career development planning
- Leadership presence building
- Access to tools and resources for accelerated growth
2. Leadership Development
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program delivers specialized training through a state-of-the-art digital learning platform. The fully asynchronous curriculum allows participants to learn at their own pace while covering:
- Personal mastery
- Governance principles
- Strategic thinking
- Sustainability and climate leadership
- Financial acumen
3. Talent Marketplace Access
Through a curated talent marketplace, the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program connects participants with high-impact opportunities that accelerate their journey to leadership positions and long-term influence.
4. Pan-African Network
Join a growing community of emerging leaders from different African countries, creating connections that span the continent and last a lifetime.
Application Guidelines
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program application process is designed to identify candidates with genuine leadership potential and commitment to growth.
Maximizing Your Application
- Clarify Your Aspirations: Articulate what leadership means to you and how the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program aligns with your specific goals
- Demonstrate Impact: Provide concrete examples from your work experience, community engagement, or projects that showcase your leadership potential or achievements
- Show Commitment: Understand that the program is a comprehensive journey requiring active engagement in networking, self-reflection, and continuous learning
- Embrace Authenticity: Your real story and genuine ambition matter more than a “perfect” CV—the program values curiosity and a growth mindset
- Think Long-Term: Consider how you’ll leverage the talent-matching feature to pursue meaningful roles that create lasting impact
Required Documents
When applying to the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program, be prepared to complete the online application form and submit any documentation requested during the application process. Specific requirements will be detailed on the official EMERGE website.
Program Structure and Duration
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program follows a structured four-step journey:
| Step | Component | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Online Application | Complete the application form and submit required documentation through the EMERGE website |
| 2 | Leadership Compass Assessment | Take this diagnostic tool designed specifically for emerging African leaders to map your strengths and growth areas |
| 3 | Leadership Navigator Report | Receive a personalized report with actionable insights to guide your development journey |
| 4 | Program Participation | Join training cohorts, mentorship programs, and talent-matching processes |
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program curriculum is delivered through an asynchronous digital platform, allowing flexibility while maintaining rigor and impact.
Why You Should Apply
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your leadership journey while contributing to Africa’s development. Here’s what sets this program apart:
- Fully Funded: Thanks to Mastercard Foundation support, there are no financial barriers to participation
- Africa-Focused Curriculum: Training specifically designed for the African context and challenges
- Flexible Learning: Asynchronous digital platform fits your schedule
- Career Acceleration: Direct access to curated leadership opportunities across the continent
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from experienced leaders who understand your journey
- Continental Network: Build relationships with fellow emerging leaders across Africa
- Holistic Development: Integrated approach covering professional skills, leadership capabilities, and career advancement
The TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program is more than training—it’s an investment in your future as an African leader.
How to Apply
Ready to join the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program? Follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Navigate to the EMERGE program application portal
- Complete Your Application: Fill out the online form with accurate, thoughtful responses
- Submit Documentation: Provide all required documents as specified
- Take the Leadership Compass: Complete the assessment tool for emerging African leaders
- Await Your Leadership Navigator Report: Review your personalized insights
- Prepare for the Journey: If accepted, get ready to engage fully with the program
Know Someone Perfect for This? You can also nominate a promising candidate through the program’s nomination link.
Deadline
Applications for the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program 2026 are currently ongoing. The program operates on a rolling admission basis, so don’t delay in submitting your application.
Ready to transform your leadership journey? Apply to the TheBoardroom Africa-Mastercard Foundation EMERGE Program today and become part of Africa’s next generation of changemakers.
About The Author
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