Katherine Fleming Women’s Leadership Course for African Women Leaders 2027
The Katherine Fleming Women’s Leadership Course for African Women Leaders is an immersive six-day leadership development opportunity designed for African women leaders, both emerging and experienced. The course will take place from 17 to 22 May 2027 in Abuja, Nigeria, and applications close on 15 January 2027.
The programme is co-hosted by the Coady Institute and the International Media and Information Literacy Institute (IMILI) at the National Open University of Nigeria. It provides a collaborative learning environment where African women leaders can strengthen their leadership skills, connect with peers and develop practical approaches to creating positive social change.
About the Katherine Fleming Women’s Leadership Course
The course is designed as a co-learning space for women leaders from across Africa. Over six days, participants will explore practical leadership tools and frameworks that can support economic agency, justice, inclusion and community-led development.
Rather than focusing only on traditional leadership models, the programme encourages participants to recognise and build on their individual strengths, experiences and gifts as community leaders.
Participants will learn alongside other African women leaders while sharing experiences, approaches and ideas for addressing challenges in their communities.
The programme is also designed to build a supportive network of women leaders who can continue learning from one another beyond the course.
Key Areas of Learning
The Katherine Fleming Women’s Leadership Course brings together several approaches to leadership and social change.
Asset-Based and Community-Led Development
Participants will explore approaches that identify and build on the strengths, resources and capabilities already present within communities.
Indigenous Community Abundance
The programme examines perspectives that recognise community knowledge, relationships and locally available resources as important foundations for sustainable development.
Transformative Leadership
Participants will explore leadership approaches that can support meaningful social change and strengthen their ability to lead in complex environments.
Gender Equity and Inclusion
The course also focuses on gender equity and inclusion, helping participants consider how leadership can contribute to more equitable and inclusive communities.
Who Can Apply?
The course is specifically designed for African women leaders.
It is intended to bring together both experienced and emerging leaders who are engaged in community leadership and social change.
The programme offers participants an opportunity to reflect on their own leadership practice while learning from women working in different contexts across Africa.
The course will be co-facilitated by experienced facilitators who bring different approaches to women’s leadership and movement building.
Course Details
Course: Katherine Fleming Women’s Leadership Course for African Women Leaders
Dates: 17–22 May 2027
Duration: Six days
Format: In-person
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Application deadline: 15 January 2027
Target group: African women leaders
Co-hosts: Coady Institute and International Media and Information Literacy Institute, National Open University of Nigeria
The facilitators listed for the programme are Saliwe Mutetwa-Zakariya and Kate Ibeanusi. The co-hosting team includes Dr. Sharon Adetutu Omotosa, Director of the International Media and Information Literacy Institute, and Dr. Martha Fanjoy, Director of Programs at the Coady Institute.
Full Bursary Available
One of the major benefits of the programme is the financial support available to accepted participants.
The Coady Institute states that successful participants will receive a full bursary covering course tuition, accommodation, breakfast and lunch, and the graduation celebration supper during their participation in Abuja.
However, participants remain responsible for other costs. These include travel to and from Abuja, visa fees, evening meals, cancellation insurance and incidental expenses.
The course does not provide travel bursaries. Participants are also strongly encouraged to obtain emergency medical insurance.
APPLY ON THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Why Apply?
The Katherine Fleming Women’s Leadership Course provides an opportunity for African women leaders to develop practical leadership skills while connecting with peers from across the continent.
The programme’s emphasis on community-led approaches, inclusion, economic agency and social change makes it particularly relevant to women working in development, community organisations, civil society and other areas of social transformation.
For African women leaders seeking to strengthen their leadership practice, expand their networks and gain practical tools for community-driven change, this six-day programme offers a valuable opportunity to learn, reflect and build lasting connections.
Applications must be submitted by 15 January 2027.
