Asia Foundation Lead Next Program in San Francisco 2025 (Fully Funded)
Program Overview:
Program Name | Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025 |
Host Country | USA |
City | San Francisco |
Program Dates | July 2025 |
Benefits | Fully Funded |
Number of Fellowships | 20 |
Application Deadline | October 27, 2024 |
Eligibility Age Range | 18-25 years old |
Application Link | https://asiafoundation.org/programs/education-and-leadership/leadex/leadnext-ambassadors-for-a-global-future/#leadnext |
University Website | Official Site |
Introduction to the Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025
Are you passionate about tackling some of the world’s greatest challenges, including climate change, inequality, and global governance? The Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025 is an exceptional opportunity for emerging leaders from Asia and the United States to gain vital skills, participate in leadership training, and engage with global issues in the heart of San Francisco.
This fully funded program, hosted by the Asia Foundation, selects 20 young leaders—10 from Asia and 10 from the U.S.—to connect, collaborate, and lead. Fellows will travel to San Francisco in July 2025 for an immersive experience that includes intensive leadership training, mentorship, and participation in a Global Leaders Summit. The program is designed to foster understanding across cultures, build leadership capacity, and prepare the next generation of global citizens to address complex geopolitical and societal issues.
This is a unique opportunity to travel to San Francisco, explore landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge, and meet other like-minded individuals passionate about creating a positive, global impact.

Program Details
- Program Name: Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025
- Location: San Francisco, California, USA
- Fellowship Period: February 2025 to July 2025
- Key Fellowship Activities:
- Leadership Training Intensive (February and March 2025)
- Monthly Virtual Masterclasses (March to June 2025)
- Global Leaders Summit in San Francisco (Week of July 14, 2025)
- Mentorship: Personalized mentorship for leadership development
Fellows will participate in virtual masterclasses and in-person summits while being guided by experienced mentors. The program fosters a deep understanding of leadership principles, global citizenship, and diverse perspectives, ultimately helping fellows make a lasting, positive impact on their communities and the world.
Financial Benefits of the LeadNext Program
The Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025 is fully funded, offering participants the following benefits:
- Airfare and Travel Expenses: Roundtrip tickets to and from San Francisco
- Housing: Accommodations during the fellowship’s in-person components
- Meals: Food and catering for the entire duration of the program
- Mentorship: Personalized guidance and leadership coaching from experienced mentors
This fellowship requires no financial contribution from selected participants.
Key Features of the LeadNext Program
The LeadNext Program brings together young emerging leaders from different sectors to foster global collaboration. Participants will gain:
- Leadership Development: A focus on enhancing leadership skills and fostering innovative approaches to problem-solving.
- Global Networking: A platform for fellows to connect and collaborate with global peers, exchanging ideas and cultural insights.
- Mentorship: Each fellow is paired with an experienced mentor who provides guidance throughout the program.
- Global Citizens Summit: Fellows will meet in San Francisco for the summit, participating in leadership workshops and discussions on today’s pressing global issues.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025, candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Age Requirement: Must be between 18 and 25 years old during the program year.
- Leadership Potential: Strong commitment to addressing critical global challenges such as climate change, inequality, social justice, and governance.
- Fluency in English: Applicants must be able to communicate effectively in English.
- Participation: The program requires full participation, including attendance at all sessions (both virtual and in-person).
- Geographic Representation: The program will select 10 participants from Asia and 10 from the United States.
How to Apply for the Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025
Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? The application process is simple:
- Online Application: Fill out the online application form on the Asia Foundation LeadNext Application Page
- Application Deadline: Submit your application by October 27, 2024.
- Required Documents: Be prepared to share information about your leadership experience, motivation, and aspirations in the application form.
If you’re passionate about global issues and ready to become a leader for the 21st century, this program could be the perfect fit for you!
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: October 27, 2024
- Leadership Training (Virtual): February – March 2025
- Global Leaders Summit (In-person): Week of July 14, 2025
- Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A1: The LeadNext Program is a fully funded leadership program that brings together young leaders from Asia and the U.S. to tackle global challenges through leadership training, networking, and mentorship.
A2: The program is open to emerging leaders between the ages of 18 and 25, from any sector, who are committed to addressing global issues such as climate change, inequality, and injustice.
A3: The program covers airfare, accommodation, meals, and all in-country costs during the fellowship, including mentorship and leadership training.
A4: No, the program is open to both U.S. citizens and participants from Asia. Ten fellows from each region will be selected.
A5: A total of 20 fellows will be chosen—10 from Asia and 10 from the United States.
A6: Yes, applicants must have fluency in English as all sessions will be conducted in English.
A7: The program focuses on leadership development, global collaboration, and tackling global challenges such as climate change, inequality, and governance.
A8: The Global Leaders Summit will be held in San Francisco during the week of July 14, 2025.
A9: Fellows will participate in monthly virtual masterclasses and an intensive leadership training program from February to March 2025.
A10: Interested candidates can apply online by filling out the form on the Asia Foundation LeadNext Application Page before October 27, 2024.
Conclusion
The Asia Foundation LeadNext Program 2025 offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to develop your leadership skills while engaging with global challenges. Whether you’re passionate about climate change, inequality, or global governance, this fully funded fellowship will equip you with the tools and network to make a difference.
If you’re ready to become a leader for the 21st century and travel to San Francisco to connect with global peers, don’t wait—apply today!