Middle East Leadership Initiative
The Middle East Leadership Initiative by the Aspen Institute is a two-year fellowship developing values-based leaders to drive societal change across the Middle East through seminars and impactful ventures.
Funder: Aspen Institute
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2026 (application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Two-year fellowship; program covers seminar costs and some expenses, but no direct financial award.
Summary: Two-year fellowship uniting accomplished Middle Eastern leaders to foster values-driven leadership and catalyze positive societal change.
Key Information: For business and civil society leaders aged 30–50 from the Middle East; significant time and travel commitment required.
Description
The Middle East Leadership Initiative (MELI), developed by the Aspen Institute, is a two-year fellowship program designed to empower emerging and established leaders from across the Middle East. MELI focuses on nurturing values-based leadership, fostering cross-sectoral dialogue, and equipping Fellows to address critical societal challenges in their communities and the broader region. Through a series of four intensive, text-based seminars and a required leadership venture, Fellows develop self-awareness, expand their impact, and join a global network of leaders committed to positive change.
