Are you a young woman passionate about peace, security, and leadership? Dreaming of building a career in international peacebuilding while networking in the heart of global diplomacy? The UNITAR She Leads for Peace Summer School Geneva 2026 is a transformative 2-week in-person program designed to empower the next generation of women leaders in the sustaining peace ecosystem.
Organized by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), this immersive summer school brings together a diverse global cohort of young self-identifying women for experiential learning, mentorship from trailblazers, and practical insights into careers in peace and security. Held in Geneva, Switzerland – the hub of international organizations – this program offers a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, self-awareness, and professional networks.
Key Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Switzerland |
| Location | Geneva |
| Organizer | United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) |
| Program Dates | 3 August – 14 August 2026 |
| Duration | 2 Weeks |
| Application Deadline | 22 February 2026 |
| Eligibility | Open to young self-identifying women worldwide |
| Language | English |
| Mode of Delivery | Face-to-Face (In-Person) |
| Program Fee | $2,750 USD (includes lunches and coffee breaks; excludes travel, accommodation, and visa) |
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
The She Leads for Peace Summer School is exclusively for young self-identifying women who meet the following requirements:
- Currently in the second-to-last or final year of an undergraduate or postgraduate degree program
- 0–3 years of professional experience
- Strong interest in peace, security, and leadership
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken)
- Eager to transition from education to a career in the sustaining peace ecosystem
- Open to applicants from all nationalities – no prior professional experience required
This program is ideal for emerging leaders ready to build confidence, define their leadership style, and connect with like-minded peers and experts.
Program Structure and Tracks
The 2-week curriculum is divided into three interconnected tracks for a balanced mix of personal development, inspiration, and practical guidance:
- Track 1: Effective Leadership – Becoming the Next Generation of Leaders for Peace (≈50% of the program) Focuses on inner development: exploring leadership meanings, challenging gendered norms, assessing personal strengths, and creating actionable leadership plans to boost self-awareness and confidence.
- Track 2: Experience Sharing – Learning from Trailblazers (≈30% of the program) Intergenerational dialogues with accomplished women leaders in peace and security, sharing insights on career paths, challenges, and opportunities.
- Track 3: Tips, Tricks, and Navigating Early Career Hurdles (≈20% of the program) Sessions with Geneva-based organizations (UN, humanitarian, and peace entities) to map career goals, overcome obstacles, and build entry strategies into the field.
The methodology emphasizes experiential learning, peer-to-peer exchanges, practical exercises, and a safe space for reflection and growth.
Benefits of the Program
Participants gain far more than knowledge – this is a life-changing experience:
- World-class training led by experts in peace, multilateralism, and security
- Mentorship and insights from women trailblazers
- Personalized leadership resources and journaling tools
- Strong professional network with global peers and professionals
- Career guidance tailored to peace and security fields
- Exposure to International Geneva’s ecosystem (UN agencies, NGOs, etc.)
- Visa support letter from UNITAR (assistance on a case-by-case basis)
- United Nations certificate upon 80% attendance
- Lunches and coffee breaks included during course days
Note: Travel, accommodation, and visa costs are the participant’s responsibility (UNITAR can suggest hotels/hostels).
Financial Information
- Program Fee: $2,750 USD
- No scholarships are currently available (updates will be posted on the official page if introduced)
How to Apply for UNITAR She Leads for Peace Summer School 2026
Applications are submitted online through the official UNITAR portal:
- Visit the official event page: She Leads for Peace Summer School Geneva 2026
- Complete the application form
- Submit required details (CV/resume and any supporting information as prompted)
- Apply before the deadline: 22 February 2026
Selection is competitive and application-based. For questions, contact: sheleads4peace@unitar.org
Final Thoughts
The UNITAR She Leads for Peace Summer School 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for young women to step confidently into leadership roles in peace and security. With its focus on personal growth, expert mentorship, and real-world insights in Geneva, this program can be a pivotal launchpad for your career in international peacebuilding.
If you’re ready to define your leadership journey and join a global community of changemakers, don’t miss this chance – apply today!
Best of luck!
