Leaders of the Free World Leadership
and Study Abroad Program in Ghana
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Are you a Leader of the Free World?
Leaders of the Free World focuses on the personal and professional development of young Black men with the goal of cultivating a new generation of global leaders. In partnership with UD, LFW offers two unique learning experiences to Blue Hens who identify as Black men:
(1) Leadership Program and Study Abroad Experience in Ghana and
(2) Annual Global Leadership Summit
Our Leaders are committed to the betterment of humanity; irrespective of geography, race, religion, ability, gender, sex, identity, or orientation. Leaders strive to improve themselves, their communities, and the world. Our mission is to develop a community of dynamic leaders who are globally minded, self-aware, and service-driven. We believe in cultivating a new generation of leaders.
2024 Global Leadership Conference
We’re already in the planning stages for the 2024 Global Leadership Conference.
Application for the 2024 LFW Leadership and Study Abroad Experience will open October 16, 2023.
Follow us to learn more!
Global Leadership Summit (annual event)
A Virtual Career Conference for Black Men in College
February 24th, 2023
10:00 am – 4:45 pm EST
The Global Leadership Summit is a virtual intercollegiate career conference focused on helping the next generation of global leaders thrive globally.
GLS topics include:
- Diversity and Inclusion in Global Leadership
- Career-Development & Readiness on a Global Scale
- International Leadership Development
- Networking & Global Exchange
The purpose of the event is to help Black men in college navigate the Global Leadership pipeline and provide information about the full range of opportunities available to them pre- and post-graduation, particularly those with a global focus. We will discuss opportunities in study abroad, Peace Corps, global business, fellowships (Fulbright), and other resources.
Email Ruby Maddox or Lavar Thomas with any questions.
Global Leadership Summit (video series)
Leadership Program & Study Abroad Experience in Ghana
The Leaders of the Free World Model works in three phases:
Program Benefits
The Leaders of the Free World Program is focused on the personal and professional development of young Black men. LFW Fellows will take part in a 9 month leadership development program that includes a trip to Ghana, mentorship, leadership training, and networking. Our program maximizes the potential of our students while building their confidence, effectiveness, and self-efficacy. We teach our fellows to be resilient, courageous, self-reflective, and action oriented.
The LFW experience is more than just a trip.
In addition to their international experience, LFW Fellows participate in the program with students from several different institutions and are matched with an accountability partner and a LFW Mentor. Fellows also participate in seminars with industry-leading practitioners in the fields of business, tech, education, social impact, and more. Through the process of the program, fellows expand both their national and international networks and reflect on what it means to be a global leader.
Annual LFW Leadership and Study Abroad Experience (Ghana)
The LFW Leadership and Study Abroad Experience combines mentorship and self-reflection to provide culturally relevant international experiences for Blue Hens who identify as Black men. Participants (aka Fellows) take part in a 9-month leadership development program that includes a trip to Ghana, accountability coaching, leadership training, and networking. Fellows are taught to be resilient, courageous, and action oriented.
Fellows Will…
- Increase their leadership capacity
- Increase their confidence and self-awareness
- Travel to Ghana, West Africa
- Gain skills in intercultural communication
- Receive career counseling
- Join the Leaders of the Free World Alumni Group
Selection Criteria:
(Demonstrated examples of the following in application)
- Leadership
- Persistence
- Commitment to Service
- Achievement
Eligibility
All applicants to the Leaders of the Free World Fellowship Program must meet the following qualifications for consideration:
- Be an African-American male and current student (18-27yrs) enrolled in an accredited degree program in in the United States.
- Have a minimum GPA 2.5 (4.0 Scale). Consideration may be given to applicants with lower GPAs: applicants should provide a an explanation in their application.
- Have completed at least 2 semesters of college credits by the end of Spring semester.
- Be a U.S Citizen or permanent resident. (For travel and visa purposes)
- Be committed to either 1) transferring to a bachelor’s degree program/4yr institution (if in community college); 2) pursuing an academic or professional development opportunity; or 3) pursing some form of career advancement upon completion of the LFW program.
- Students must be willing to receive necessary vaccinations. (Yellow Fever and COVID-19)
Program Expectations
Fellows must agree to the following:
- Commit to all three phases of the LFW Program
- Regularly meet/check-in with LFW mentor
- Attend all LFW virtual meetings.
- Participate in program fundraising initiatives.
- Obtain all necessary documents for travel
(Passport, Visa, Travel Insurance).
Students will receive guidance on procedures for travel documents.
Students need to make sure they are available to attend
Monday night program sessions and international trip dates:
Program dates and expected time Commitment:
10 Sessions pre-sessions
- Bi-monthly (March – May)
- Weekly Sessions (June)
2 weeks in Ghana
(Beginning of June)
6 Post Sessions
(June – September)
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To learn more about the Leaders of the Free World program at UD,
(including financial aid that may be available to you).
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