Participate · Emerging Leader

Emerging Leader

The core cohort. 100–120 places, selected on demonstrated contribution rather than need. Every participant is assigned to a Collaboration Lab.

What we are looking for

Demonstrated standing in leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, professional excellence, academic distinction, community impact, creative excellence, technology, research, social enterprise, public service or ecosystem building.
Evidence of something built, shipped, led or contributed to — not a statement of intent.
A specific interest in the UAE–Africa relationship, articulated rather than assumed.
The capacity and intention to act on the network in the twelve months after the Forum.
Age 22–35 for the Emerging Leaders track. All participants 18 or over.

You must have something to contribute, not only something to receive.

Applications close 5 October 2026. The participant list is locked on 10 October, as the visa runway requires six weeks.