The success and progress of free societies depends on the participation of all citizens, men and women. A century of progress has shown us that when you educate and empower women, you improve nearly every other aspect of society."
– Mrs. Laura Bush
Launched in 2012
82 participants from Egypt, Afghanistan, Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia
Aim: To equip women with the skills to advance economic opportunity in their communities and countries
Multiple modules in Dallas and Washington, D.C. plus engagement with leading private and public-sector organizations
Scholars represent the most influential industries: business, education, health care, law, media, and politics/civic engagement
WE Lead builds upon President and Mrs. Bush's commitment to empower and equip women in the Middle East, North Africa, and Afghanistan to be more effective leaders.
Scholars in the program are "rising stars" who possess the vision, desire, and capacity to transform their respective communities and countries. They come from various sectors of society including business, education, health care, law, media, and politics/civic engagement. The program is uniquely structured to provide training that aids each woman in developing the necessary tools to expand her knowledge, expertise, influence, and impact.
To date, 82 women from Egypt, Afghanistan, Jordan, Lebanon, and Tunisia have participated in the program. After participating, 33 percent received a promotion at work, 30 percent were offered a new leadership position, and 53 percent accepted a new job.
The program received a net promoter score(NPS) of 90.
said their sense of confidence or purpose as a leader changed.
said the value of their network increased during the program.
60% said that WE Lead was the primary driver of that change.
said they received new responsibilities or role changes in their work since WE Lead.
said they gained new skills and abilities in the program that improved their capability to make a difference.