VV Visionaries Program for Women Verified listing

The Vital Voices Visionaries program, in partnership with the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund (ELELF), the charitable fund of Estée Lauder, was created to support the next generation of emerging leaders who are redefining leadership in their everyday lives.

The VV Visionaries program invests in trailblazing women by increasing their access to leadership training and the networks that sustain them. Together with the Estée Lauder Emerging Leaders Fund, this signature program will champion women leaders across diverse sectors, industries, and experiences who want to create positive social impact in their communities and beyond. 

Three cohorts of 50 women visionaries over the age of 18 will participate in a 7-week immersive virtual experience built on the proven leadership model of Vital Voices, incorporating lessons in leadership from Estée Lauder executives and Vital Voices Global Network leaders.  

Participants from all three cohorts will have the chance to be selected for one annual in-person experience that provides deeper training and investment in their personal leadership journeys. 

Following completion of the cohort, participants will join the Vital Voices community of over 47,000+ changemakers across 185 countries, each of whom are daring to reimagine a more equitable world for all.

Throughout the program, participants engage in interactive small-group discussions and peer learning, gaining insights from guest speakers and developing lasting connections with a diverse cohort. They deepen their understanding of personal leadership drivers, learn to lead inclusive communities, and embrace bold actions that create lasting impact. Graduates of the program also join the Vital Voices global network of over 47,000 women leaders, gaining access to ongoing continuing education and engagement opportunities, and receive a certificate of completion upon finishing the program.

The selection process emphasizes identifying women who demonstrate strong community-based leadership, innovative problem-solving capabilities, a tangible track record of action, and a commitment to contributing to the Vital Voices alumni network beyond the program. Applicants are evaluated on their potential to drive their vision forward and create a multiplier effect within their communities or sectors, leveraging the support and resources of the Vital Voices network.

To be eligible, applicants must identify as women, be at least 18 years old by May 2026, be proficient in English, and be the founder or co-founder of a social sector organization or social enterprise. Candidates who are already participating in or have graduated from another Vital Voices leadership program in 2025 or 2026 are not eligible.

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