Applications are now open for the 2026 ITU Gender Champions Programme. The ITU Gender Champions Programme recognizes and supports emerging women leaders who are advancing digital transformation, promoting digital inclusion, and helping shape a more equitable digital future.
Implemented by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) with support from Australia and Women’s WorldWide Web (W4), the programme provides opportunities for young women changemakers to amplify their impact, strengthen their leadership, and connect with a global network of experts, policymakers, and innovators.
For its first cohort, the programme will support up to four outstanding young women leaders (18-25 years old), who are driving meaningful change through technology and digital innovation. Selected Gender Champions will have the opportunity to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit 2027 in Geneva, Switzerland, taking place from 21 to 25 June 2027.
Requirements
The programme seeks to elevate young women who are already responding to these challenges.
Applicants may be working in fields such as:
Digital skills and digital literacy
Connectivity and internet access
Artificial intelligence
Digital innovation
Online safety and cybersecurity awareness
Women and girls in STEM
Digital entrepreneurship
Digital health
Inclusive technology
Technology for education
Digital public policy
ICT access
Community technology initiatives
Technology for social good
Digital rights
Women’s digital empowerment
Selection process
Applications will be reviewed by ITU and programme partners against the programme eligibility and selection criteria outlined in the Terms and Conditions.
Due to the anticipated volume of applications, only pre-selected candidates will be contacted. The final cohort will be chosen with a view to ensuring diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and geographical representation.
Indicative timeline
Applications open: 21 September 2026
Applications close: 15 November 2026
Review and selection process: 16 November 2026 – 7 March 2027
Cohort announcement: 8 March 2027
Participation in the AI for Good Global Summit, Geneva: 21–25 June 2027
Method of Application
For More Information,
Visit the Official Webpage