ITU Gender Champions Programme 2027 – Applications Now Open

About the Programme

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is inviting applications for its inaugural Gender Champions Programme 2027.

The programme recognises and supports young women who are using digital technologies to promote inclusive development, advance digital transformation and create positive change in their communities, countries and regions.

It aims to empower emerging women leaders by strengthening their leadership capacity, increasing their visibility and connecting them with a global network of experts, policymakers and innovators.

Selected Gender Champions will have the opportunity to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit 2027 in Geneva, Switzerland.

Benefits of the Fellowship

Selected participants will receive:

• An opportunity to participate in the AI for Good Global Summit 2027 in Geneva.
• Exposure to international experts, policymakers and technology innovators.
• Opportunities to strengthen leadership and professional development skills.
• Access to a global network of young women changemakers.
• A platform to showcase their work and contribute to discussions on digital inclusion and the future of technology.
• Potential support to implement or strengthen community-level projects promoting women’s and girls’ digital inclusion, subject to available funding.

Travel Support: ITU provides round-trip economy airfare to Geneva, accommodation and a per diem for the Summit. Other uncovered expenses, including visas and travel documentation, remain the participant’s responsibility.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

• Be young women aged 18–25 at the time of application.
• Be nationals of countries within the eligible ITU regions.
• Be actively using digital technology to advance inclusive development.
• Demonstrate leadership and commitment to creating positive change in their communities.
• Have an interest in digital inclusion, gender equality, technology and innovation.

Applicants may be involved in areas such as:

• Digital skills development and training.
• Expanding access to digital technology and connectivity.
• Technology-driven community solutions.
• Online safety and digital rights.
• Artificial intelligence for social good.
• Advocacy for inclusive digital policies.
• Empowerment of women and girls through technology.

There is no specific university degree requirement stated in the programme announcement.

Eligible Regions

Applications are open to eligible nationals from:

1. Africa
2. The Americas
3. Arab States
4. Asia and the Pacific
5. Commonwealth of Independent States

Ghanaian applicants are eligible under the Africa region.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Relevance to gender equality in digital transformation.
• Leadership in addressing the gender digital divide.
• Demonstrated impact and potential for scaling initiatives.
• Originality and innovation.
• Ability to collaborate and sustain engagement.

The programme will select up to four outstanding young women for its inaugural cohort.

Programme Timeline

• 21 September 2026: Applications opened.
• 15 November 2026: Application deadline.
• 16 November 2026 – 7 March 2027: Review and selection.
• 8 March 2027: Announcement of selected Gender Champions.
• 21–25 June 2027: AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva, Switzerland.

How to Apply

Interested and eligible applicants should:

1. Visit the official ITU Gender Champions Programme webpage.
2. Read the programme Terms and Conditions carefully.
3. Complete the online application form in English.
4. Submit the application before the deadline.

Apply Here: https://www.itu.int/initiatives/gender-equality/gender-champions/

Enquiries: genderchampions@itu.int

Application Deadline: 15 November 2026

This is an excellent opportunity for young women using technology to make a difference to gain international exposure, strengthen their leadership and contribute to a more inclusive digital future.