Young Women’s Empowerment: Agrifood Leadership Education Programme (ALEP) 2026

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Application Deadline: January 7, 2026

Empowering the next generation of women leaders in agrifood systems, the Agrifood Leadership Education Programme (ALEP) 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for young women to develop leadership, advocacy, and project management skills that drive transformation in the global food ecosystem.

In celebration of the United Nations’ declaration of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in collaboration with the World Food Forum (WFF) and Climate Bridges, is spearheading a movement that recognizes the vital role women play in sustainable agriculture and food systems.

Empowering Women Across Agrifood Systems

ALEP 2026 is designed to support over 100 young women, aged 18 to 35, from WFF National Youth Chapters worldwide. Through a one-year leadership and capacity development program, participants will gain the tools, confidence, and networks they need to design and lead advocacy projects that create meaningful change in their communities.

The programme aligns with FAO’s mission to promote “Four Betters” — better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life — ensuring that women’s leadership becomes central to global food security and sustainability.

Programme Structure

The Agrifood Leadership Education Programme (ALEP) is structured around three interconnected pillars — Explore, Encourage, and Experience — each designed to build technical expertise, leadership confidence, and practical impact.

1. Explore

This phase introduces participants to essential technical and soft skills through expert-led masterclasses on the WFF Youth Skills Hub.
Topics include:

  • Advocacy tools for local and global food challenges
  • Leadership confidence and orientation
  • Employability and communication skills

Participants will design impactful advocacy project concepts connected to their National Youth Chapters, laying the groundwork for sustainable initiatives that empower local communities.

2. Encourage

The mentorship phase connects each participant with inspiring women leaders across the agrifood and development sectors. Through monthly mentorship sessions, participants engage in group discussions, share experiences, and receive expert guidance to refine their projects.

This phase focuses on strengthening participants’ ability to design scalable and sustainable projects, while nurturing networks that support long-term collaboration and growth.

3. Experience

Five exceptional participants will advance to the final stage, where they receive grants to implement their advocacy projects at the community level. These initiatives will target local agrifood challenges, particularly those affecting young women.

Graduates of ALEP 2026 will emerge as Agrifood Systems Education Leaders, equipped to inspire others, drive innovation, and champion inclusivity in agriculture.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

  • Analyze and apply systems thinking to address agrifood challenges
  • Design and implement evidence-based advocacy projects
  • Lead collaborative initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture
  • Communicate effectively through inclusive storytelling and ethical leadership
  • Demonstrate confidence, integrity, and equity in decision-making roles

These outcomes ensure participants leave ALEP not only as change-makers but as role models shaping a fairer and more resilient food future.

Programme Timeline (2025–2026)

  • Dec 2025 – Jan 2026: Call for applications and participant selection
  • Feb – Jun 2026: Technical and leadership masterclasses; mentorship sessions
  • Jun – Jul 2026: Engagement with global women leaders
  • Jun – Oct 2026: Project implementation
  • Oct 2026: Presentation at the World Food Forum flagship event

Eligibility Criteria

Required:

  • Women aged 18–35 (as of 31 December 2026)
  • Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Demonstrated commitment to community action in agrifood systems, advocacy, or sustainable development
  • Residency or citizenship in a country with a WFF National Youth Chapter
  • Proficiency in English

Desirable:

  • Project management experience
  • Interest in gender equality and agrifood education
  • Involvement in leadership or capacity development initiatives

The selection process ensures representation from diverse geographical backgrounds, creating an inclusive and global learning experience.

Application Process

Interested candidates should:

  1. Review the official programme brochure.
  2. Confirm eligibility and prepare required documents.
  3. Complete and submit the online application form.
  4. Await interview invitations from the selection team.

Application Deadline: January 7, 2026

Successful applicants will join a dynamic cohort of young women ready to lead agricultural transformation and contribute to a more sustainable food future.

The Agrifood Leadership Education Programme (ALEP) 2026 is more than a fellowship — it’s a platform for women to shape the future of global food systems with innovation, equity, and impact.

For more information and to apply,CLICK HERE 

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