Leading for Humanity 2027 in South Africa (Fully Funded Residential Programme)
The Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation invites nominations for Leading for Humanity 2027, an eight-day residential leadership programme in South Africa. The programme welcomes South African and international nominees of any age who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to human rights and justice. Selected participants receive programme costs, accommodation, and meals, while covering their own travel to and from South Africa. Nominations close on 14 October 2026.
Quick Overview
Programme: Leading for Humanity 2027
Opportunity Type: Residential Leadership Programme
Host Organization: Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation
Country: South Africa
Locations: Cape Town and Hermanus
Duration: 8 days
Programme Dates: April 2027
Funding: Programme costs, accommodation, and meals covered; international travel excluded
Eligibility: South African and international nominees of any age who meet the programme’s leadership and participation requirements
Nomination Deadline: 14 October 2026
About Leading for Humanity 2027
Leading for Humanity is a residential leadership programme organized by the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation.
The programme focuses on developing leadership through reflection, dialogue, and shared learning. It draws on the values associated with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, particularly human rights, justice, compassion, and moral courage.
Participants explore how personal development and meaningful engagement with others can contribute to positive change in society.
The programme also connects participants with a community of individuals committed to leadership and social impact.
Programme Structure and Learning Areas
Leading for Humanity 2027 consists of an eight-day residential experience.
Participants engage in discussions, exchange perspectives with peers, and reflect on their experiences and leadership approaches.
The programme focuses on four main themes:
1. Self-Repair for Societal Repair
Participants examine the relationship between personal development and their ability to contribute to positive change in society.
2. Ubuntu and Compassionate Leadership
The programme explores Ubuntu and the role of compassion in leadership, relationships, and community engagement.
3. Forgiveness, Indignation, and Righteous Anger
Participants engage in conversations about forgiveness, justice, and responses to societal challenges.
4. Finding Purpose and Building a Circle of Courage
The programme encourages participants to reflect on their sense of purpose and develop the courage to lead within their communities and professional environments.
Through these activities, participants engage with individuals from different backgrounds and develop connections within the programme’s wider leadership community.
Benefits and Financial Coverage
Leading for Humanity 2027 is described by the Foundation as a fully funded residential programme.
The Foundation provides the following support to selected participants:
✓ Programme participation costs.
✓ Accommodation during the residential programme.
✓ Meals during the programme.
✓ Participation in the eight-day leadership experience.
✓ Access to the programme’s alumni network.
Travel Expenses
Participants or their sponsors are responsible for travel costs to and from South Africa.
Nominees must be able to travel to Cape Town and Hermanus and participate fully in the residential programme.
Applicants should consider these travel arrangements before submitting a nomination.
Also read: Leading Scholarship 2026 for One Young World Summit in South Africa
Eligibility Criteria
Leading for Humanity 2027 welcomes nominations from South Africa and other countries.
The Foundation encourages nominations of individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive contribution to society.
Leadership Potential and Courage
Nominees should demonstrate the ability and willingness to stand up for truth, human rights, and justice.
The programme seeks individuals whose leadership approach reflects the values associated with Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Commitment to Societal Repair
Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to addressing societal challenges.
They should also be willing to participate in meaningful discussions and engage openly with different perspectives and experiences.
Age and Professional Background
The programme welcomes leaders of any age, sector, or life experience.
Nominees may come from different academic, professional, and community backgrounds.
Nationality and Participation Requirements
Both South African and international candidates may be nominated.
Nominees must be able to:
• Travel to Cape Town and Hermanus, South Africa.
• Participate fully in the eight-day residential programme.
• Engage in challenging conversations and personal reflection.
• Commit to the programme’s intensive residential experience.
Full attendance during the programme is mandatory.
Who Can Submit a Nomination?
The Foundation accepts both self-nominations and nominations submitted by other individuals.
Nominations may be submitted by:
• The nominee.
• Colleagues.
• Mentors.
• Employers.
• Community members.
Individuals who meet the programme’s requirements may therefore nominate themselves directly.
Required Nomination Materials
The nomination must contain information about the candidate and their suitability for Leading for Humanity 2027.
The Foundation requests the following materials:
1. Motivation Statement
Prepare a motivation explaining why the nominee demonstrates courageous leadership.
The statement should also describe how the nominee would contribute to the programme and benefit from participating.
2. Contact Details
Include the nominee’s contact information.
3. Brief Biography
Provide a short biography outlining the nominee’s background and relevant experience.
4. Supporting Materials
Additional supporting materials may be included where relevant.
Examples provided by the Foundation include:
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Reference letters.
These materials can provide further information about the nominee’s background and leadership experience.
Nomination Process
Interested individuals must submit their nominations through the official email address provided by the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation.
The nomination process involves the following steps:
• Review the programme’s leadership and participation requirements.
• Identify an eligible nominee or prepare a self-nomination.
• Write the required motivation statement.
• Include the nominee’s contact details and a brief biography.
• Attach relevant supporting materials, where applicable.
• Submit the nomination by email before the official deadline.
Nomination Email
Email Address: shanti@tutu.org.za
Required Subject Line: Leading for Humanity nomination – 2027 cohort
Nominations opened on 11 September 2026.
The Foundation encourages early submissions because places are limited.
Check: Knight-Hennessy Scholars 2027 Cohort at Stanford University
Selection Process
The Leading for Humanity programme team reviews nominations according to the Foundation’s selection criteria.
The evaluation considers:
• Demonstrated leadership.
• Alignment with Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s values.
• Commitment to social justice.
• Diversity of the overall cohort.
Shortlisted nominees will be contacted for interviews and may be asked to provide additional information.
The Foundation expects to confirm the final cohort by early 2027.
Successful nominees will participate in the residential programme and become part of its alumni network.
Important Dates
The Leading for Humanity 2027 programme follows the schedule below:
Nominations Opened: 11 September 2026
Nomination Deadline: 14 October 2026
Final Cohort Announcement: Early 2027
Programme Period: April 2027
Programme Duration: 8 days
Nomination Deadline
The nomination deadline for Leading for Humanity 2027 is:
14 October 2026
Candidates and nominators must submit their nomination materials by email before the stated deadline.
Official Link
Read the official announcement carefully and follow the stated nomination instructions.
