AWLN 8th Intergenerational Retreat (IGR 2026) – Gabon: Full Guide, Eligibility & How to Apply

Quick Overview

The African Women Leaders Network (AWLN) is calling for applications from young African women leaders for its 8th Intergenerational Retreat (IGR 2026), taking place in Gabon in December 2026. 

The retreat brings together emerging, established, and senior women leaders across AWLN's six pillars, peace and security, governance, economic development, agriculture and land, social mobilization, and youth leadership, for cross-generational exchange and learning.

Key Details

Deadline: August 3, 2026 

Location: Gabon (retreat takes place December 2026) 

Open to: Women only 

Eligibility Requirements

• Applicant must be female
• Age groups accepted: 18-25, 26-35, or 36-45
• Open to applicants across all African regions (North, West, Central, East, Southern Africa) and the Diaspora
• Applicant should be able to demonstrate current leadership positions (up to 3, current or past)
• Applicant should have an initiative or project with measurable community impact
• Stakeholder categories accepted: Emerging Leader, Established Leader, Senior Leader, or Partner Organisation Representative
• Prior AWLN IGR participation is not required, first-time applicants are explicitly accommodated

What It Covers

Not specified in the application form. AWLN does not state on the form itself whether travel, accommodation, or other costs are covered, this would need to be confirmed directly with AWLN before or after applying.

Required Documents

Curriculum Vitae (CV), max 100MB

Motivational video (1-2 minutes), max 1GB, introducing yourself, the leadership challenge/opportunity you're addressing, why you want to join, and how you'll apply and share knowledge gained

Proof of current leadership position, max 100MB

Supporting document(s) for community impact (optional)

Application Process

1. Complete personal information (name, year of birth, nationality, country of residence, WhatsApp number, gender, age group)

2. Complete professional profile (current title/organization, sector, years of experience, professional bio)

3. Identify which AWLN pillar(s) your work aligns with and describe your initiative/project, including measurable impact

4. Answer motivation questions: why you want to participate, specific goals, and how you'll share knowledge gained afterward

5. Describe up to 3 leadership positions held and any awards/recognition received

6. Provide geographic and stakeholder information, including AWLN National Chapter or Youth Caucus membership, if applicable

7. Upload CV, motivational video, proof of leadership position, and supporting documents

8. Sign the declaration confirming accuracy of information and commitment to attend if selected

9. Submit before August 3, 2026

Apply Here

Major Considerations

This is a women-only opportunity with a fairly involved application, it requires a video submission, proof of leadership, and detailed written responses on impact and motivation, so it takes real preparation time and shouldn't be left until the last few days before the deadline.

The form also asks applicants to certify they will attend in Gabon in December 2026 if selected, so this is a genuine commitment, not just an expression of interest. Since funding details aren't stated on the form, applicants should be prepared to ask AWLN directly about travel/accommodation support before assuming the retreat is fully funded.

The emphasis throughout is on documented, measurable community impact, not just holding a title, so applicants should be ready to speak concretely to outcomes their initiative has achieved, not just describe the initiative itself.

Should You Apply?

A strong fit for African women already leading a community initiative or project with real impact to show, particularly those aligned with one of AWLN's six pillars. Less suited for those without a current leadership role or documented project impact, since the application specifically asks for proof and measurable outcomes, not just interest in leadership development.

Disclaimer: Youth Gateway Africa shares these scholarships, fellowships, and grants for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with, nor do we represent or owe any obligations on behalf of these external organizations. While we strive for accuracy, opportunities can change. Please exercise caution, verify details independently, and take full responsibility for your applications.