Leadership Formation Academy
A 4-week course to cultivate the inner capacities needed to lead with moral clarity
Across societies, we see rising distrust, polarisation, exhaustion, and a loss of confidence in public leadership. Democracy is not only under political pressure. It is also under human strain. Leaders are asked to hold impossible tensions and remain principled in environments that reward outrage, speed and oversimplification. Many who entered public service with a sense of calling now find themselves exhausted and worn down by constant conflict.
This four-week programme is designed for emerging and established democratic leaders, activists, journalists, and civil society leaders who want a space for moral regrounding so they can continue their work without losing their humanity. The course offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the deeper sources of purpose and conscience. Drawing on Benedictine principles and GCRD's expertise in democratic renewal, participants will be guided through an experience of personal and civic renewal.
-
This course is designed for:
Democratic leaders (elected officials, government staff, civil servants)
Civil society leaders and activists
Journalists and media professionals
Policy professionals and researchers
Community organizers
Anyone called to serve the renewal of democratic life.
You don't need any prior experience with religious or contemplative practices. What matters is your commitment to the inner work of moral formation.
-
Participants are required to:
✓ Attend all four live sessions (90 minutes each)
✓ Commit to at least 15 minutes of daily contemplative practice
✓ Complete weekly readings (1-2 hours)
✓ Engage thoughtfully in dialogue and reflection
✓ Bring openness and vulnerability to the process
-
During the four weeks, we will learn:
Listening as spiritual and democratic practice
Silence as a path to moral clarity
Discerning truth from manipulation and fear
The discipline of attention in an age of distraction
Discerning your vocation in democratic life
Sustaining moral leadership without burnout
Speaking with hope and prophetic authority
Building moral movements for the long term
Course Fee: Free
We believe this formation should be accessible to all who are called to democratic work. The course is offered free of charge, thanks to the generous support of our donors. Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive a priority invitation to one of our Contemplative Policy Retreats.
Course Dates: January 14 – February 4, 2026
Course Preview
