The National Geographic Society recognizes the critical importance of investing in and empowering individuals at the early stages of their careers to achieve its global mission. This commitment is exemplified through the National Geographic Early Career Leadership Program, an initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of National Geographic Explorers, equipping them with the tools to lead impactful projects and become influential figures in their respective fields.
The foundation of this leadership program lies in the Society’s Early Career Grants. These grants are specifically structured to fuel innovative and exploratory projects undertaken by emerging leaders across diverse disciplines, including conservation, education, research, storytelling, and technological advancements. Recognizing that financial support is only one component of success, National Geographic Society developed the Early Career Leadership Program to provide a select group of grant recipients with a comprehensive suite of resources to accelerate their professional trajectories.
This intensive, year-long program serves as a powerful catalyst for career growth. Participants benefit from focused leadership development training, honing essential skills to navigate complex challenges and inspire others. Media training is a core element, empowering Explorers to effectively communicate their work and amplify their impact through various media platforms. Each participant is paired with a dedicated mentor, providing personalized guidance and support from experienced professionals within the National Geographic network and beyond. The program further enriches the experience through monthly webinars, fostering a collaborative learning environment and delivering insights from leading experts. Opportunities for educational outreach are integrated, enabling Explorers to connect with students and inspire the next generation of explorers and changemakers. Finally, the program actively creates platforms for Explorers to share their work and elevate their profiles through speaking engagements and other visibility opportunities.
The 2020-2021 cohort of the National Geographic Early Career Leadership Program commenced with a virtual orientation, marking the beginning of an enriching journey for 15 exceptional individuals. This initial week featured an immersive leadership workshop, fostering immediate skill development and cohort bonding. A mentorship kick-off session formally launched the crucial mentor-mentee relationships. Community workshops provided a space for peer learning and collaborative problem-solving, and focused discussions on engaging effectively with the National Geographic Society provided valuable context and guidance. Following this intensive orientation, the cohort engaged in monthly training sessions centered on core leadership competencies, complemented by exclusive insights shared by National Geographic subject matter experts. A unique and impactful component involved each Explorer partnering with a National Geographic certified educator to co-design and implement innovative learning experiences for students, extending the program’s reach and impact into classrooms worldwide.
The National Geographic Society proudly announced that the 2020-2021 National Geographic Early Career Leadership Program cohort comprised 15 Explorers representing 13 countries across the globe. This diverse group hailed from regions including Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America, underscoring the program’s global reach and commitment to fostering leadership from diverse perspectives and experiences.
For individuals inspired to participate in this transformative program, the initial step is to apply for an Early Career Grant. Detailed information about these grants and the application process can be found here. The National Geographic Early Career Leadership Program represents a significant investment in the future, empowering talented individuals to become impactful leaders and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable and thriving planet.
