IWF's Leadership Fellows Program accelerates the career path of high-performing women and elevates their impact within organizations and communities worldwide. The Program, which marked its 30th year in 2024, is highly successful:
  • Corporate sponsors consistently report that the Program accelerates the career trajectories of high-potential women leaders
  • 93% of Alumnae report a lasting impact on their professional lives

We seek high-potential women executives who are looking to break through to top leadership roles. Each year, we select a geographically, culturally, ethnically, and professionally diverse group of leaders in corporate, government, nonprofit, academic, and entrepreneurial and social impact organizations. Learn more in our brochure.

Catalyzing Leadership

IWF's world-class Leadership Fellows Program accelerates the path to the C-suite for women across all sectors. It is custom built for leaders 3-5 years away from the most senior roles in their professions.

The Program was developed in direct response to the 1991 US Glass Ceiling Report, which identified three key barriers that restrict the potential of women leaders:

  • Limited access to professional networks
  • Inadequate leadership training
  • Lack of mentors

For more than 30 years, the Leadership Fellows Program has transformed careers. Its scope, rigor, and impact make it an unparalleled experience for personal career development and a powerful tool for organizational succession planning. Learn more in our brochure.

Powerful and Proven Results

A World-Class Leadership Experience

Our Leadership Fellowship delivers a truly global, immersive, and transformational learning journey designed for accomplished women leaders.

Fellows participate in:

  • 3-Day Leadership Immersion to set the foundation for the year

  • 4-Day Executive Program at INSEAD

  • 5-Day Leadership Experience at the University of Cambridge

  • Virtual Masterclasses with IWF thought leaders

  • A Capstone Legacy Project that benefits Fellows' organizations and communities.

A Network of the World's Most Accomplished Women

Fellows gain access to the global International Women's Forum network, connecting with influential women leaders across industries and continents.

Through:

  • Global conferences

  • Expert-led sessions

  • Small-group dinners and curated gatherings

Participants build relationships that are authentic, strategic, and lifelong.

 

Bespoke Mentoring

Each Fellow is thoughtfully matched with an IWF member mentor who shares their professional background, leadership path, and strategic goals.

These one-on-one relationships provide:

  • Executive-level insight

  • Personal leadership guidance

  • Support in navigating complex career challenges

This personalized mentorship ensures every Fellow maximizes her growth throughout the year.