The Harpswell ASEAN Leadership Summit 2025 is a fully funded program to empower young women leaders from ASEAN countries and Nepal. Harpswell ASEAN Women’s Leadership Summit 2025 brings together women aged 25–35 from ASEAN countries and Nepal for a 5-month leadership program. It culminates in a week-long gathering in Penang, Malaysia, fostering collaboration, friendships, and a network of women leaders dedicated to driving positive change in Southeast Asia.
The Harpswell ASEAN Leadership Summit, which will run from May to September 2025, combines virtual sessions with an in-person gathering in Penang, Malaysia. Harpswell is committed to gathering a diverse and inclusive cohort. Participants will engage in workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects to foster leadership skills and regional understanding. Application Deadline: 14th February, 2025.
Institution:
- Name: Harpswell + Center for Research on Women and Gender
- Location: Penang, Malaysia
- Programs: The summit will be held at Universiti Sains Malaysia, providing participants with access to its facilities and academic environment.
- Duration: 5 Months
- Dates: May- September, 2025
The Summit 2025 Structure:
May 2025 ❋ Virtual:
The summit begins with two 1.5-hour introductory sessions for participants to share their passions and meet the Harpswell team.
June–August 2025 ❋ Virtual:
Twice-monthly 3-hour learning sessions with experts on ASEAN topics, plus monthly group meetings to tackle regional challenges.
Sept. 13–21, 2025 ❋ In Person:
Participants meet at Universiti Sains Malaysia in Penang for a week of collaboration, networking, and hands-on sessions with trainers from the virtual program.
Study Area:
The Harpswell ASEAN Leadership Summit 2025 focuses on:
- Critical Thinking and Debate
- Topics in Leadership
- Gender Theories and Studies
- ASEAN and Women’s Empowerment
- Civic Engagement
- Leadership Development: Strategies for effective leadership in various sectors.
- Social Change and Advocacy: Tools and techniques for driving societal impact.
- Regional Collaboration: Strengthening ties and understanding among ASEAN countries and Nepal.
- Empowerment of Women: Empowering women to take on leadership roles and contribute to community development.
- Cultural Exchange: Promoting intercultural understanding and respect among participants.
Harpswell ASEAN Leadership Summit Benefits:
- Full coverage of travel expenses to and from Malaysia.
- Accommodation during the in-person segment.
- Meals
- After the program, women will be eligible to apply for Social Impact Grants.
- Access to all virtual and in-person sessions, workshops, and materials.
- Networking opportunities with professionals and peers from the region.
Benefits Not Included:
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals outside the program, and personal travel insurance.
Eligibilities of Harpswell ASEAN Leadership Summit:
- Women aged 25-35 from ASEAN countries and Nepal.
- Demonstrated interest in social change and women’s leadership.
- Proven leadership potential through academic achievements or professional experience.
- Willingness to engage in cultural exchange and personal growth.
- Are open to personal growth, cultural exchange, and diverse perspectives.
- Must have strong English skills.
Required Documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Valid passport.
- A one-minute introductory video.
- Recent photograph.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Contact details of 2 references.
- Certificates or awards demonstrating leadership and community involvement
Harpswell ASEAN Leadership Summit Application Process:
- Complete the online application form available on the official Harpswell website.
- Provide personal details and articulate your motivation for applying.
- Answer all application questions thoughtfully.
- Upload the required documents and introductory video.
- Review your application for accuracy and completeness.
- Submit the application by the deadline: February 14, 2025
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Clearly express your passion for women’s leadership and social change.
- Highlight specific examples of your leadership experience.
- Demonstrate cultural awareness and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives.
- Ensure all documents are up-to-date and accurately reflect your qualifications.
- Practice and record a concise, engaging introductory video that reflects your personality and aspirations.
Living Expenses in Malaysia (for International Participants):
Although the summit covers most expenses, knowing the average living costs is useful:
- Accommodation: $100–$200 per month (shared housing).
- Food: $150–$250 per month (local eateries or groceries).
- Transportation: $20–$50 per month (public transport is affordable).
- Entertainment & Miscellaneous: $50–$100 per month.
Total Estimate: $400–$600 per month.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Participating in the Harpswell ASEAN Women’s Leadership Summit offers a unique platform to develop leadership skills, engage with like-minded women across the region, and contribute to meaningful social change. The program’s comprehensive approach, combining virtual learning with an immersive in-person experience, provides a holistic environment for personal and professional growth.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is there an application fee for the summit?
- No, there is no application fee; the program is fully funded.
- Do I need to arrange my own travel to Malaysia?
- No, the program covers travel expenses to and from Malaysia.
- What if I don’t have a passport yet?
- Applicants are encouraged to obtain a valid passport as soon as possible to facilitate travel arrangements.
- Is proficiency in English mandatory?
- Yes, all sessions are conducted in English, so proficiency is required.
- Can women from non-ASEAN countries apply?
- The program is open to women from ASEAN countries and Nepal only.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official Harpswell website