Emerging Leaders Forum

Empowering the next generation of Indo-Pacific leaders through strategic dialogue, policy innovation, and collaborative learning.

About the Program

The Emerging Leaders Forum is the Indo-Pacific Studies Center’s flagship 10-week online program for early- to mid-career professionals, researchers, and leaders from across the Indo-Pacific. Participants engage in expert-led sessions, policy simulations, and collaborative leadership development through the IPSC Indo-Pacific Leadership Academy.

Program Tracks & Benefits

Indo-Pacific Leadership Track

  • Weekly live and recorded sessions
  • IPSC Certificate of Completion
  • 12-month IPSC Academy Membership
  • Access to the IPSC Annual Summit
  • Free entry to 2025 State of the Indo-Pacific Conference
  • Discounts on future IPSC courses

Indo-Pacific Executive Track

  • All Leadership Track benefits
  • Small group briefings with policymakers
  • Exclusive sessions and case studies
  • Access to exclusive datasets and resources
  • Certificate of Excellence

Weekly Curriculum

Each week combines live learning, interactive discussion, and self-paced study. Participants complete weekly journal reflections, 3 case study assignments, and a final capstone policy project.

  • Live Sessions: 1.5 hours/week — talks, panels, case studies, collaboration
  • Recorded Access: All sessions recorded and timezone-accessible
  • Asynchronous Learning: 3–4 hours/week — readings, briefs, exercises
  • Total Live Instruction: 16 hours across 10 weeks
  • Capstone: Final policy presentation to expert panel
Week Theme Focus Areas
Week 1 Leadership in the Indo-Pacific Regional power dynamics, leadership models, strategic decision-making
Week 2 Geopolitical Strategy & Risk Crisis leadership, regional conflicts, security partnerships
Week 3 Governance & Policy Development Public policy frameworks, regional governance, diplomacy
Week 4 Economic Development & Trade Indo-Pacific trade agreements, sustainable development, global markets
Week 5 Climate Action & Environmental Leadership Climate diplomacy, resilience strategies, sustainability policies
Week 6 Technology, Innovation & Leadership AI governance, cybersecurity, digital transformation
Week 7 Negotiation & Collaborative Leadership Diplomacy, strategic alliances, high-stakes negotiations
Week 8 Personal Leadership & Ethical Decision-Making Ethical leadership, professional growth, leadership reflection
Week 9 Policy Presentation Workshop Drafting and refining policy proposals
Week 10 Final Capstone Presentations Showcase and expert panel review

Program Leadership

Dr. Hugh Tuckfield
Founder & Executive Director, Indo-Pacific Studies Center
Lead Program Director and Lecturer, Emerging Leaders Forum

Dr. Tuckfield is a political theorist and senior policy expert with decades of experience in government, academia, and international institutions. He holds a Bachelor of Economics, a Master’s in Human Rights and Democratisation, a Law degree, and a PhD in Government and International Relations. He has held prestigious research fellowships at the University of Oxford and the WZB Berlin Social Science Center. Dr. Tuckfield leads the design and delivery of the Emerging Leaders Forum, guiding participants through the complexities of Indo-Pacific strategy, governance, and cooperation.

Expert Facilitators & Guest Speakers

The Emerging Leaders Forum is guided by experienced facilitators and regional experts who bring diverse perspectives and real-world insight into Indo-Pacific dynamics. Guest contributors are drawn from academia, government, and international organizations.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand strategic dynamics shaping the Indo-Pacific
  • Develop practical policy proposals on real-world challenges
  • Strengthen leadership, negotiation, and collaboration skills
  • Join a dynamic alumni network of IPSC Emerging Leaders

Important Dates

Applications Open Now Open
Early Bird Deadline 31 March 2025
Application Submission Deadline 15 April 2025 (latest) 15 April 2025
Final Registration Deadline 30 April 2025
Program Starts 19 May 2025
Final Presentations 25 July 2025
Certificates Issued August 2025

Program Fees at a Glance

The Indo-Pacific Emerging Leaders Forum is designed to be accessible, high-impact, and affordable. We offer region-sensitive pricing and flexible payment options to support broad participation across the Indo-Pacific.

  • SAARC, Pacifica & Oceania: Fees start at USD 44 with early bird discounts.
  • All Other Regions: Leadership and Executive Tracks from USD 88.
  • Scholarships: Need-based assistance is available for eligible applicants.
  • Early Bird Deadline: 31 March 2025

Full fee breakdowns are provided below.

Program Fees & Early Bird Discounts

Early Bird Registration closes on Monday 31 March 2025
Flexible payment options available. GST may apply.

SAARC, Pacifica & Oceania

Participation Tier Standard Early Bird
Leadership Track USD 55 USD 44
Executive Track USD 110 USD 88

All Other Regions

Participation Tier Standard Early Bird
Leadership Track USD 110 USD 88
Executive Track USD 220 USD 176

Ready to Lead in the Indo-Pacific?

Submit your application to join the 2025 Emerging Leaders Forum cohort.
Early bird discounts and limited scholarships are available.

Apply Now