Rise Up Together Announces Major South Africa Gender Equity Program for 2026

A new leadership initiative is launching in South Africa. Global nonprofit Rise Up Together will train local advocates for gender equity. The program starts with an in-person accelerator in April 2026.

Applications are now open for civil society leaders in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. The goal is to create lasting change for women, girls, and gender-nonconforming people. The deadline to apply is January 15, 2026.

Program Offers Intensive Training and Significant Grant Funding

Selected leaders will attend a Leadership and Advocacy Accelerator. The training runs from April 13 to 18, 2026. It includes virtual sessions before and after the core workshop.

Rise Up Together covers all participation costs. This includes transport, lodging, food, and materials. The investment removes financial barriers for dedicated community leaders.

The support extends far beyond the training week. Graduates can apply for seed funding to launch advocacy projects. Grants of up to $17,000 are available for systems-change initiatives.

This funding can catalyze significant local projects. Leaders may also apply for a second round of financing later. The model ensures ideas have the resources to grow and create impact.

Building a Network of Advocates for Lasting Systemic Change

The program targets leaders already working in gender justice. Priority areas are health, education, and economic opportunity. It seeks individuals committed to broad equity.

Eligibility requires working in Gauteng or KwaZulu-Natal provinces. Applicants should be aged 18 to 60. They must work at a nonprofit, civil society, media, or government organization.

A key focus is representation from marginalized communities. The program prioritizes leaders from socially or economically disadvantaged groups. This includes people with disabilities and ethnic or religious minorities.

Organizational support is mandatory for participation. For grant eligibility, an organization must be legally registered to receive international funds. Government entities can participate in training but cannot receive grants.

The Rise Up Together Leadership & Advocacy Program represents a strategic investment in local changemakers. Its blend of training and funding aims to dismantle systemic barriers. This initiative could significantly advance gender equity across South Africa.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the main benefits of the Rise Up Together program?

Participants receive fully-funded training and can apply for significant seed grants. The program covers all costs for the accelerator and offers up to $17,000 for advocacy projects. This provides both skills and resources for creating change.

Who is eligible to apply for this leadership program?

The program is for civil society leaders aged 18-60 working in Gauteng or KwaZulu-Natal. Applicants must work on gender equity in health, education, or economic opportunity. They also need support from their organization’s leadership.

What kind of funding is available after the training?

Graduates can apply for seed grants of up to $17,000. This funding is for launching a new gender equity advocacy project. A second round of funding may also be available for expanding successful projects.

Why is the program focused on specific South African provinces?

Targeting Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal allows for concentrated, in-depth support. These regions have significant need and active civil society networks. A focused approach often leads to deeper, more measurable impact.

Is English proficiency required for applicants?

Yes, applicants must be proficient in both oral and written English. The training and materials will be conducted in English. This ensures clear communication and full participation for all selected leaders.