Women in Foreign Affairs Mentorship Group 2026 with Alyse Nelson: Applications Open for Women in Foreign Affairs
The Women in Foreign Affairs Network Mentorship Group invites women pursuing careers in diplomacy, international relations, and global development to join its 16th cohort led by Alyse Nelson. Participants will engage in three monthly group coaching sessions focused on leadership and professional advancement.
Overview
The Women in Foreign Affairs Network Mentorship Group is designed to create a supportive, inclusive environment where women can learn directly from experienced leaders in international affairs. The 16th cohort will be led by Alyse Nelson, President, CEO, and Co-Founder of Vital Voices Global Partnership. Selected participants will take part in three monthly, off-the-record group coaching sessions centered on leadership, decision-making, navigating professional challenges, and gaining behind-the-scenes insights into the foreign policy field.
Attendance is an important component of the program; participants must commit to attending at least two out of the three scheduled group coaching sessions:
- Session 1: October 15, 2026 (7:00–8:00 PM CEST / 1:00–2:00 PM EST)
- Session 2: November 6, 2026 (7:00–8:00 PM CEST / 1:00–2:00 PM EST)
- Session 3: December 9, 2026 (8:00–9:00 PM CEST / 2:00–3:00 PM EST)
Eligibility
The program is intended for women with a passion for foreign affairs across a range of professional and academic backgrounds, including diplomacy, security and defense policy, human rights, international law, global environmental policy, economic policy, health policy, gender policy, and technology.
- Applicants must hold at least a Bachelor's degree.
- Candidates can be at various stages of their professional development, from earlier career phases to more established roles.
- Applicants must confirm their availability for the mandatory session attendance requirements before applying.
How to Apply
Candidates must submit their applications online before the final deadline. The application form requires personal details, LinkedIn profile information, city of residence for the next six months, selected area of expertise, and a brief statement (maximum 250 words) explaining their background and why the program matters to their career.
Deadline
Applications are due by October 2, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST. Selected candidates will be notified no later than October 5, 2026.