inspiring a new generation of leaders
The oikos Community is home to outstanding potential, driven by students passionate about making a difference in the world. In 2015, we embarked on a journey to nurture this potential by launching our flagship Leadership Program, oikos LEAP. The program was designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to evolve into a new generation of leaders. Over the years, oikos LEAP has supported the personal development of hundreds of participants, redefining traditional leadership to emphasize purpose and a deep sense of responsibility—both to their communities and to our planet. By encouraging participants to explore different facets of themselves and build meaningful connections with those around them, oikos LEAP inspires future leaders to lead with authenticity, compassion, and purpose.
The oikos Leadership Program – LEAP inspires young people to become more responsible and sustainable in their decision making and equips them with insights, knowledge, and tools to do so. The program challenges participants to reflect on their values, purpose, and actions. It helps them to have an empowered voice and encourages them to be proactive about change.
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LEAP 2025
After a decade of growth and constant evolution—fueled by a vibrant community of changemakers—we are proud to announce that applications for the 2025 LEAP cohort are now open!
Building on the successful collaboration between oikos International and the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), an initiative of the United Nations Global Compact, we are thrilled that this collaboration will continue in 2025.
The program runs from mid-April to September. Through LEAP, you’ll cultivate the mindset and skills needed to drive systemic change, with a particular emphasis on creating positive impact at institutional and community levels.
Following the successful collaboration of oikos and Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) on last year’s LEAP Researchers cohort, we are once again teaming up! The PRMEi5 – the Impactful Five framework will serve as the pedagogical framework for this year’s program. The framework defines the five characteristics of playful learning and the development of five skills: cognitive, emotional, creative, social, and physical. It aims to make learning meaningful, facilitate active engagement design for iteration develop supportive social interaction foster joy and well-being.
program
At the heart of the program lies the opportunity for participants to engage in unique monthly workshops designed to learn and practice responsible leadership. Out of our 23 LEAP skills set, we selected 3 to dive deep in: The Art of Listening, Setting Healthy Boundaries Aligned with Our Values, From Conflict to Connection: The Magic of Effective Communication. 90% of the workshops are practice-based, because this is what makes the difference in the end – our level of practice and commitment to the practice. As Toke Møller from Art of Hosting says, “what we practice, we will become”.
There are 3 groups for participants to chose from to participate in program activities in, based on what time best suits them in regards to timezone differences and their professional and academic commitments:
Cohort 1: second Wednesday of each month, 3pm CEST | 6.30pm IST | 9pm CST | 9am EDT
Cohort 2: second Thursday of each month, 10am CEST | 1.30pm IST | 4pm CST | 4am EDT
Cohort 3: second Thursday of each month, 5pm CEST | 8.30 IST | 11am CST | 11am EDT
*The schedule is tentative and subject to change.
For a detailed schedule, please refer to the application form.
playful learning and education
The core of i5 framework - meaningful learning experiences through active engagement, iterative design, supportive social interactions, and the cultivation of joy and well-being.
communities of practice
Peer group for collective learning, skill-building, and knowledge exchange designed to strengthen your impact locally and to provide you with a solid support system.
accountability buddy system
Pair up with an accountability buddy! Many participants have shared how this personalized touch became one of the most meaningful aspects of their experience.
who can join?
Undergraduates, Master’s Students, Ph.D. Students or Postdoctoral Researchers
Ideal candidates are those eager to develop their interpersonal skills, and inspire others to step into their role as conscious leaders within their communities and organizations. By doing so, they will help build effective, conscious communities that drive systemic transformation toward sustainability and the well-being of both people and the planet.
In sum you:
- address management or sustainability challenges in your research and / or teaching
- have a high motivation to develop personally and professionally
- have a vision of an economic system that respects planetary boundaries and serves a just society for all
what you get?
completely free of charge participation
4hours per month commitment
certificate after successful completion
learning and community building
platform to implement your learnings
connect with likeminded people
access to our resources and global network
our collaborators.
frequently asked questions
Yes! We believe in making this opportunity accessible to everyone. All we ask in return is your commitment—show up, participate actively, and make the most of this experience. This isn’t just a program you drop in and out of; it’s a journey we take seriously, and we hope you will too!
Check out the application form for the specific requirements. We’ll be keeping track of participation, so as long as you stay engaged and meet the criteria, you’ll receive your well-earned certificate of achievement!
Ideally, yes! Seeing each other helps create a more connected and interactive experience. Of course, if you need to turn it off briefly, that’s completely fine—just try to turn it back on when you can. If you face connectivity challenges, let our Program Managers know, and we’ll work together to find a solution.
Not this time! In 2025, we’re focusing on the power of peer learning. Our coaches will be there to guide and support the Communities of Practice, ensuring you still have plenty of valuable insights and mentorship along the way.
This year’s program is fully online. As we’re anticipating the biggest and most diverse cohort yet, with participants from all continents it is difficult to host an in-person event that will be equally accommodating and inclusive to everyone equally. However, there will be opportunities for self-organized gatherings, and in some cases, your university might even help fund them. If you’re interested, keep an eye out for these exciting opportunities!
Please take your time to answer the questions thoroughly. Participants will be chosen solely based on their answers in this questionnaire. If you’re having difficulties, questions or need some support regarding the application, contact us below and we will be happy to help.
get in touch
Have any questions about LEAP? We’re happy to answer them!
Write an email to: leap@oikos-international.org