Young women's leadership is at the centre of everything we do, and today we are delighted to open applications for the World YWCA Leadership Cohort 2026–2027!
This is a six-month, paid, fully remote internship (1 September 2026 – 28 February 2027) for young women across our movement to work directly with the World YWCA Secretariat on the priorities that keep us connected, resourced and growing while building their own leadership along the way.
The Leadership Cohort 2026–2027 is made possible through the generous support of the World Service Council, whose commitment continues to strengthen young women's leadership across the YWCA movement.
This year's cohort contributes to two areas at the heart of our strategy:
- YWCA Community Activation: growing and energising our global community through events, communications and storytelling.
- Financial Vitality & Impact Mapping: understanding and strengthening the financial health and collective impact of YWCAs around the world.
Cohort participants will also receive leadership development support, mentorship from the World YWCA team, and training in our signature tools. Depending on opportunity, the programme may include an optional in-person component.
Who can apply
Young women aged 18–30, with at least two years of active engagement in a local or national YWCA, who can be endorsed by an affiliated member association, have a working knowledge of English, and can commit full-time for the programme period.
Deadline for applications: Sunday, 5 July 2026 (11:59 PM, Geneva time).
Should you have any queries, please reach out to leadershipcohort@worldywca.org.
Full details, including eligibility criteria, application process, form and Terms of Reference, are available in the links below.
Please share this widely and encourage the young women in your association to apply!
Click here for the Application form.