Free Online leadership Program for young People with Certificates

Applications are now open for the Kectil Program 2027, a free, year long online leadership program for young people aged 17 to 26 who live in developing countries. The program focuses on ethical leadership, social entrepreneurship, and grassroots social innovation, with modules on leadership, peace building, financial skills, mental health, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.

It is not a degree scholarship and does not include a cash award, but it is free for all accepted applicants and fully supported by the Malmar Knowles Family Foundation. The application deadline is November 15, 2026. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details:

• Organizer: The Knowles Educational and Charitable Trust for International Leadership (Kectil)
• Funded by: The Malmar Knowles Family Foundation
• Program Type: Online leadership program
• Application deadline: November 15, 2026
• Open to: Youth living in developing countries
• Cost to participants: Free for accepted applicants

What This Program Offers:

Here is what you receive and gain if you are accepted:

• You get a full year of structured learning through a confidential online portal at no cost, so you build skills that would normally require paid courses.
• You gain knowledge in leadership, conflict resolution, financial management, entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability, which strengthens your CV and your confidence.
• You join a community of more than 14,000 youth leaders from over 100 countries, giving you contacts, collaborators, and peer support.
• You can take part in the Kectil Global Youth Index, where your views on major global issues are collected while your identity is protected.
• You can develop a local solution through the Kectil Community Project Initiative, and top projects can win international recognition and prizes.
• You may get the chance to share your story on the Kectil World Youth Network Podcast and learn from conferences, webinars, and videos on the Kectil YouTube channel.
• After finishing the program, you join the Kectil Alumni Network, which offers ongoing professional development, international collaboration, and career openings.

Certificates You Can Earn

Your certificate depends on your performance during the year:

• Certificate of Superior Performance: For top global performers who excel in assignments, discussions, and module challenges and show outstanding leadership, innovation, and community impact.
• Certificate of Excellence: For high achieving participants who consistently do well in assignments, discussions, and module challenges.
• Certificate of Participation: For participants who complete some of the core program requirements.

Top performers may also be offered a role as a regional coordinator for a Kectil Regional Group, or a direct mentorship pairing with an experienced industry leader.

Eligibility Criteria:

To be considered, you should:

• Be between 17 and 26 years old
• Live in a developing country
• Show leadership potential, creativity, or a passion for positive change
• Be ready to commit to a full year of learning and participation
• Be willing to complete assignments, join discussions, and network with other participants
• Agree to follow The Kectil Code

What Is Expected from You:

Although the program is free, accepted applicants are expected to:

• Work hard and stay dedicated throughout the year
• Take part actively in modules, discussions, and activities
• Network with other Kectil Colleagues
• Follow The Kectil Code

Important Notes:

• This is a training and mentoring program, not a traditional scholarship with tuition or living allowance.
• Certificates depend on your performance during the year.
• Apply only through the official Kectil website to avoid scams.

How to Apply: