Harpswell ASEAN Women's Fully Funded Leadership Program in Cambodia 2026

Applications are now open for the Harpswell ASEAN Women's Leadership Summit 2026, a transformative fully funded leadership development program for young women from ASEAN nations, Nepal, and Papua New Guinea. This prestigious 5-month hybrid program combines virtual learning with an in-person gathering in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, creating a powerful network of emerging women leaders across the region.

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Summit Overview

Founded in 2017, this annual summit brings together a cohort of 36+ young women aged between 25-35 representing each of the countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as well as Nepal, for a 5-month leadership development and professional networking program culminating in a week-long gathering in person to deepen learning and connections.

In 2026, the Summit proudly expands to welcome participants from Timor-Leste, ASEAN's newest member, and Papua New Guinea, further strengthening a diverse and inclusive regional community of women leaders.

Program Feature Details Program Name Harpswell ASEAN Women's Leadership Summit 2026 Host Organization Harpswell Eligible Countries ASEAN nations, Nepal, Papua New Guinea Participant Age 25–35 years Cohort Size 36+ young women Program Format Hybrid (Virtual + In-Person) Virtual Phase July–October 2026 In-Person Phase October 30 – November 8, 2026 Location Phnom Penh, Cambodia Financial Coverage Fully Funded Application Deadline April 19, 2026

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Summit Structure: Hybrid Format for Maximum Impact

Since 2025, the Summit has adopted a hybrid structure that expands the program's depth and impact over five months.

Phase Duration Activities Virtual Learning July–October 2026 Twice-monthly 2-hour sessions outside regular business hours In-Person Gathering Oct 30 – Nov 8, 2026 Week-long program in Phnom Penh

Virtual Phase Components

• Inner Work Sessions – Four sessions focused on self-discovery and personal development

• Small Group Meetings – Three sessions building connections among cohort members

• ASEAN-Themed Expert Sessions – Four sessions with leading experts on regional issues

Note: All virtual activities will take place outside of regular business hours.

In-Person Phase

The cohort gathers in beautiful Phnom Penh for one week of:

• Collaboration and team-building activities

• Exploration of Cambodian culture and history

• Networking with trainers and facilitators

• Deepening learning and connections

After five days as a Summit cohort exploring Inner Development Goals, participants have the unique opportunity to join IKAT 2026, Harpswell's inaugural gathering for women leaders working in and for Southeast Asia.

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Leadership Curriculum

Program Philosophy

The Summit is designed to advance positive change in Southeast Asia by creating a network of women leaders with:

• Deep understanding of the ASEAN region

• Meaningful, lifelong relationships with peers across borders

Curriculum Structure

An extension of Harpswell's Cambodian leadership curriculum, the Summit includes:

• Lectures and interactive workshops

• Site visits to relevant organizations

• Group activities and discussions

• Expert-led sessions on regional themes

Distinguished Trainers

Past trainers include leading experts from academia, industry, and community development throughout Southeast Asia and beyond.

• Dr. Alan Lightman – Professor of the Practice of Humanities, MIT; Founder and Board Chair at Harpswell

• Penny Burtt – Head of Public Policy and Government Relations at Stripe; formerly with Visa Inc. and McKinsey

• Professor Dr. Noraida Endut – Unit for Research on Women and Gender (KANITA), Universiti Sains Malaysia

• Professor Dr. Rashidah Shuib – Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, USM; former KANITA director

• Dr. Vannarith Chheang – President at Asian Vision Institute; formerly at Nippon Foundation

• Alison Pavia – Executive Director of Harpswell; formerly with Peter C Alderman Foundation

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Participant Testimonial

"In product and tech, data is our default language. We use numbers to prove points, to guide decisions, to demonstrate impact. I've long relied on data as my way of persuading.

But the Harpswell Summit reminded me that stories are also data. They may not come in spreadsheets, but they move hearts, shift perspectives, and invite trust."

— Rachel Kuo (Singapore) , Senior Product Manager, Harpswell ASEAN Women's Leadership Summit 2025

Program Coverage

Harpswell covers all expenses for selected participants:

• Travel: Round-trip transportation to Phnom Penh

• Accommodation: Full housing during in-person phase

• Meals: All meals provided during the program

• Program Activities: All workshops, sessions, and site visits

• Learning Materials: Provided by Harpswell

Following the Summit, participants are also eligible to apply for Social Impact Grants to support their leadership initiatives.

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Eligibility Criteria

Who Should Apply?

Harpswell welcomes applications from women who meet the following criteria:

Requirement Details Age 25 to 35 years Nationality Citizens of ASEAN countries, Nepal, or Papua New Guinea Interest Keen interest in social change and women's leadership Leadership Potential Demonstrated through academic achievement or professional accomplishment Openness Willingness to share, explore, and grow in self-identity, cultural diversity, and worldview Curiosity Interest in the experiences of others in the region Language Strong English language skills

2026 Expansion

In 2026, the Summit proudly expands to welcome participants from:

• Timor-Leste – ASEAN's newest member

• Papua New Guinea – Further strengthening regional diversity

Commitment to Diversity

Harpswell is committed to gathering a diverse and inclusive cohort. Applications are welcome from women of any:

• Race and ethnicity

• Social background

• Religion

• Disability

• Sexual orientation

The organization believes that learning from those with different experiences creates more compassionate and effective leaders.

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Important Dates

• Virtual Information Session: March 24, 2026 at 7:30 PM (ICT)

• Application Deadline: April 19, 2026

• Virtual Phase Begins: July 2026

• Virtual Phase Ends: October 2026

• In-Person Gathering: October 30 – November 8, 2026

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How to Apply

Step 1: Review Eligibility

• Ensure you meet all criteria regarding age, nationality, interests, and language proficiency

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Gather information about your:

• Academic achievements

• Professional accomplishments

• Leadership experiences

Step 3: Complete Online Application

• Visit the official Harpswell website

• Complete the online application form before April 19, 2026

Step 4: Attend Virtual Information Session (Optional)

• Join the virtual information session on March 24, 2026 at 7:30 PM (ICT) to learn more about the program

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Why Apply for This Summit?

Key Benefits

Factor Advantage Fully Funded All travel, meals, and accommodation covered Regional Network Connect with 36+ women leaders from across ASEAN and beyond Expert Training Learn from distinguished academics and industry leaders Hybrid Format Flexible virtual learning plus immersive in-person experience Leadership Focus Develop skills for social change and community impact Post-Summit Support Eligible for Social Impact Grants after program completion

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this program only for women from ASEAN countries?

A: The Summit welcomes women from all ASEAN nations, plus Nepal and Papua New Guinea.

Q: What is the age range for participants?

A: Applicants must be between 25 and 35 years old.

Q: Do I need to speak English?

A: Yes, strong English language skills are required for full participation.

Q: Is the program really fully funded?

A: Yes, Harpswell covers all travel, meals, and accommodation for participants.

Q: Can I attend only the in-person portion?

A: No, the program is integrated. Participants must complete both virtual and in-person phases.

Q: What happens after the Summit?

A: Participants become part of the Harpswell sisterhood and may apply for Social Impact Grants.

Q: How do I apply?

A: Complete the online application on the Harpswell website before April 19, 2026.

Contact Information

For questions about the Summit or application process:

Summit Senior Administrator
Dr. Leila Mohajer
Email: leila@harpswell.org

Final Thoughts

The Harpswell ASEAN Women's Leadership Summit 2026 offers an extraordinary opportunity for young women from the region to develop as leaders, engage with experts, and join a powerful professional network. With comprehensive funding covering all expenses, the program removes financial barriers and allows participants to focus entirely on their growth and learning.

The hybrid format—combining virtual sessions over four months with an immersive week in Phnom Penh—creates deep, lasting connections and meaningful skill development. Participants emerge with enhanced leadership capabilities, regional understanding, and lifelong relationships with peers across borders.

For women committed to social change and women's leadership, this Summit represents a transformative experience. The April 19, 2026 deadline is approaching—begin your application today and take the next step in your leadership journey.

Good luck with your application

Apply Now

For complete and official information and to submit your online application, visit the official Harpswell website:

Apply for Harpswell ASEAN Women's Leadership Summit 2026 Cambodia