Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Deadline: December 12, 2025
The Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential Center for Women and Development (EJS Center) invites applications for the Amujae Initiative 2026, a premier leadership program designed to empower emerging African women public leaders. The term “Amujae” means “we are going up” in Kru, a Liberian language, reflecting the program’s mission to elevate African women to the highest levels of public leadership.
The initiative provides tailored mentorship, leadership training, and peer-to-peer learning to help women leaders build the skills, confidence, and networks required to influence governance and development across Africa. It is designed for women currently serving or aspiring to serve in public office, civil service, or policy advocacy roles.
Benefits
- Leadership Development: Intensive training in political strategy, communication, and governance.
- Mentorship: Guidance from former African heads of state, ministers, and senior public officials, including former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf herself.
- Networking Opportunities: Connection with an influential community of women leaders across the continent.
- Visibility and Advocacy: Media exposure and access to platforms that amplify the voices of African women leaders.
- Capacity Building: Enhanced ability to design and implement impactful policies that address Africa’s most pressing challenges.
- Fully Funded Participation: All program-related expenses, including accommodation, travel, and materials, are covered.
SEE ALSO: The African Development Bank Group Internship Program 2026 for young Africans (Intern at AfDB’s HQ in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire plus Monthly Stipend)
Eligibility Criteria
- A citizen of an African country
- Driven by a bold ambition to lead at the highest levels of public service
- A proven leader with a track record of success and impact
- Passionate about empowering other women and uplifting her community
- A patriot, deeply committed to her country’s future
- Guided by integrity, ethics, and a sense of purpose
To be considered, candidates must demonstrate:
- Vision: A clear and compelling vision for change.
- Leadership: Proven experience in senior leadership within political, civil, or international institutions.
- Political Savvy: Deep understanding of political systems, election processes, and power dynamics.
- Credibility: Recognized expertise and a reputation for excellence.
- Personal Mastery: The drive to take control of their career and future.
- Resilience: The strength to overcome obstacles on the path to leadership.
- Ambition: The readiness to take a bold step forward within the next five years.
Application Process and Documents Required
Interested candidates must complete the online application form on the EJS Center website. The application typically requires:
- Personal and professional information
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of motivation outlining leadership vision and public service goals
- Recommendation letters (preferably from senior professionals or mentors)
- Short video or essay submission demonstrating leadership experience and impact
