A powerful global mentorship opportunity is now open for young women who want to lead change. UNESCO and Christian Dior Couture have officially opened applications for the Women@Dior & UNESCO Mentorship Program 2026–2027, a year-long international initiative designed to support, educate, and empower the next generation of women leaders across disciplines and countries.
Since its launch in 2017, the program has supported over 2,800 women from more than 60 countries, creating a strong global network of future leaders working in engineering, business, international relations, STEM, public policy, arts, communication, and beyond. The 2026–2027 cohort continues this mission, combining mentorship, education, and real-world social impact.
What Is the Women@Dior & UNESCO Program?
The Women@Dior & UNESCO Program is a one-year mentorship and leadership development initiative built around shared values of autonomy, creativity, inclusion, and sustainable development. It brings together UNESCO’s global mandate for gender equality in education with Dior’s tradition of excellence, transmission, and empowerment.
Participants engage in structured learning, professional mentorship, and collaborative projects aimed at advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality at both global and community levels. The program is part of UNESCO’s Global Education Coalition, reinforcing its role in shaping inclusive and equitable educational ecosystems worldwide.
Why UNESCO and Dior Partner for Gender Equality?
Gender equality is a global priority for UNESCO, particularly in education, leadership, and access to opportunities. Through this partnership, UNESCO and Dior address systemic gender barriers by providing role models, skills development, mentorship, and evidence-based leadership training.
A central pillar of the program, the Dream for Change initiative, directly supports UNESCO’s work in community empowerment, girls’ education, STEM participation, and gender-transformative leadership. Together, Dior and UNESCO aim to ensure that young women are not only educated, but also equipped to lead responsibly and drive social transformation.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to women who meet the following conditions:
- Under 30 years old at the time of application
- Enrolled full-time in a higher education institution
- In the final year of an undergraduate degree or currently pursuing postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD)
- Proficient in written and spoken English at B2 level or higher, as the program is conducted entirely in English
- From any academic discipline, with a demonstrated interest in women’s empowerment, gender equality, or social responsibility
- Must not have previously participated in the Women@Dior & UNESCO program.
Application Timeline and Deadline
The application window for the Women@Dior & UNESCO Mentorship Program 2026–2027 is open from 26 November to 31 December 2025. The last date to submit applications is 31 December 2025 at 23:59 (Paris time, GMT+1).