The Women’s Foundation of Alabama has opened the application process for its 2024 Women’s Policy Institute, the organization announced.

“The Women’s Policy Institute Fellowship is an equity-centered, women-led strategy that empowers community leaders to become catalysts for systemic change in Alabama,” said Kate Messervy, Women’s Foundation of Alabama director of Advocacy and Engagement. “Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to elevate the voices of all women and foster leadership that benefits our communities and economies.”

The Women’s Policy Institute, according to the WFA, is an “experiential learning fellowship designed to equip community leaders with the essential skills for public policy advocacy.” It was originally launched in 2021 to create a bridge between the legislative process and some of the state’s more diverse communities after a lack of female leadership from those areas was noticed in what the company called the “public arena.”

The 40-hour WPI curriculum provides comprehensive training in the legislative process and strategy, issue research and education, advocacy campaign planning, and community organizing.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.