About the

Summit

introduction

What is the Summit? 

One Event. Multiple Expressions. Global Impact.

The Global Leadership Summit is more than an event—it’s a catalytic experience. Broadcast in multiple languages, in hundreds of locations worldwide, the Summit brings together a faculty of world-class thought leaders to inspire personal, organizational, and societal transformation.

We want to see leaders inspired and equipped so they can lead transformation in their communities and around the world.

What is the
Global Leadership Summit?

The Global Leadership Summit is the world’s premier leadership conference. Broadcast at hundreds of partner host sites in the U.S. and around the world, this two-day event is experienced by more than 250,000 people a year!

We bring together leaders from both ministry and marketplace with world-class speakers like Craig Groeschel, Juliet Funt and John C. Maxwell. The Summit is for both seasoned and aspiring leaders – including those who don’t yet realize the influence they have.

Speakers & Faculty

This year’s GLS faculty: 

Each year, the Global Leadership Summit features a fresh lineup of world-class speakers from business, ministry, media, education, and beyond—offering timely insights and practical wisdom to equip leaders in every sphere of influence.

David Ashcraft

President & CEO

Global Leadership Network
Author

Erica Dhawan

Leading Authority on 21st Century Teamwork, Collaboration & Innovation, Bestselling Author

Bradley Rapier

Founder, Groove Theory

Award-winning
Choreographer

Christine Caine

Cofounder, A21 Campaign

& Propel Women
Bestselling Author

Craig Groeschel

Founder & Senior Pastor

Life.Church
Bestselling Author

James Hewitt, Ph.D

Human Performance Scientist
Author
..

Jon Acuff

INC Top 100 Leadership
Speaker
Bestselling Author

John C, Maxwell

Leadership Expert
Founder, Maxwell Leadership
Bestselling Author

Juliet Funt

Founder & CEO
Juliet Funt Group
High Performance Expert

Stephanie Chung

Former Chief Growth Officer, 
Wheels Up Sales & Leadership Expert

Gabriel Salguero

Pastor, The Gathering Place
President, National Latino
Evangelical Coalition

Former GLS faculty: 

Each year, the Global Leadership Summit features a fresh lineup of world-class speakers from business, ministry, media, education, and beyond—offering timely insights and practical wisdom to equip leaders in every sphere of influence.

General Stanley McChrystal

Andy
Stanley

Angela
Ahrendts

Arthur C.
Brooks

Bob Iger

Carly
Fiorina

Sec. Condoleezza
Rice

Dr. Henry
Cloud

Erwin R.
McManus

Joseph
Grenny

Danielle
Strickland

Kaká

Malcolm
Gladwell

Marcus
Buckingham

Mike Krzyzewski
Coach ‘K’

Patrick
Lencioni

Pat
Gelsinger

T.D.
Jakes

Vanessa
Van Edwards

Ryan
Leak

Sadie Robertson
Huff

Will
Guidara

General Stanley
McChrystal

Andy
Stanley

Attendance

Why should you attend?

At the Summit, you’ll have your courage and passion ignited while also learning practical, boots-on-the-ground tools to improve your leadership.

You’ll build your vision for a better future, professionally and personally.

You’ll gain fresh perspectives from people outside of your field.

You’ll be stretched in areas you want to improve.

You’ll discover leadership language with your team.

You’ll learn to grow the health of your culture

Need more reasons to consider?

The Global Leadership Summit is more than a conference—it is a platform to launch your vision toward a better future.

You will experience rich learning, new ideas and gain a fresh perspective:

    • You will be stretched in areas you want to improve.

    • You will rediscover your purpose to take courageous steps forward.

    • You will continue learning and developing your skills to achieve maximum impact.

    • You will discover new ideas to apply to your context from people outside of your field.

    • You will build into your team and the health of your culture.

    • You will become the best leader you can be.

    The Summit is the kick-off to year-round leadership development to strengthen your leadership skills for positive change.

Join a community of growth-minded leaders who are stepping out with vision to bring positive change to.

Testimonials

What do people say about the Summit?

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Before attending GLS, I was an arrogant leader who struggled with team conflicts. The messages from GLS taught me humility and the importance of valuing my teammates. A simple thank-you note changed everything—my team became more united, and our work improved tremendously. GLS transformed my  eadership and my life.

Tieu Thanh Liem – Vietnam

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GLS helped me overcome my fear of leadership. I used to think leading meant being bossy, but I learned that true leadership is about serving others. Now, I embrace leadership opportunities with courage and faith, using my position to positively influence my workplace and share God’s love.

Tran Thi Binh An – Vietnam

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Experiencing GLS in Chicago and Beijing gave me two unique perspectives—the grandeur of the live event and the deep reflection of the facilitated sessions. Both experiences enriched my understanding of leadership and left me inspired to grow and make an impact.

Justin (14) – China

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I was on the verge of giving up my pastoral ministry due to illness, but GLS renewed my strength. The talks touched my heart and encouraged me to continue serving despite my struggles. GLS has become my annual source of inspiration and strength.

Rev. Ngai Khan Man – Myanmar

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GLS has challenged me to lead with compassion and intentional encouragement. As a woman leader in my organization, I’ve learned the power of affirming my coworkers at the right moments. I am committed to reflecting Jesus in my leadership.

Daw Nyunt Kyi – Myanmar

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Hosting GLS in my city has transformed ministries, corporate organizations, and government institutions. GLS positioned me as a beacon of leadership excellence, inspiring many to pursue growth and integrity. The impact is undeniable.

Madojemu – Nigeria

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GLS revolutionized my leadership as a Divisional Police Officer. My officers now serve with excellence and diligence. Implementing the insights from GLS has elevated our division’s performance, ensuring sustainable progress even beyond my tenure.

Francis – Nigeria

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For years, I let fear hold me back from fulfilling my calling. But after hearing some of the messages at GLS, I knew I could no longer make excuses. I’m now walking boldly into my purpose, no longer bound by fear. GLS was the catalyst for my transformation.

Tatiana – Togo

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GLS reminded me of my personal mission. Every session provided practical insights, helping me refine my vision and take steps toward providing ethical and compassionate healthcare.

Kavitha David – India

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I used to let fear dictate my dreams, but GLS inspired me to dream bigger and take action. Now, I’m ready to step out in faith and pursue the vision God has placed in my heart.

James, Youth Leader – India

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GLS challenged me to implement leadership lessons in my school, and the results have been incredible. Students improved their performance, teachers gained a renewed vision, and parents noticed positive changes in their children. Everybody wins when a leader gets better!

Iury Motta – Brazil

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GLS has challenged me to lead with courage, vision, and integrity. I left the event energized and committed to making a meaningful impact in my business and church. The insights from world-class speakers continue to shape my leadership journey.

Carlos Sandoval – Mexico

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GLS showed me that leadership isn’t about age—it’s about influence. I realized I can make a difference now, not someday. Inspired by GLS, I’m starting a mentorship group at my school to help my peers grow as leaders.

Alex (16) – South Africa

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GLS helped me shift my mindset from big, overwhelming goals to focusing on small, daily wins. This approach has transformed the way my team and I work toward success.

Cornelius Smit – Australia

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I’ve attended many leadership events, but GLS stands out as the best. The speakers were outstanding, and I left not just inspired, but equipped with practical tools to strengthen my leadership.

Sally Hewitt – Australia

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As a first-time GLS attendee, I walked away feeling motivated and empowered. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned in my leadership and coaching practice

Kerryn Bricknell – Australia

The Summit around the World

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Global Leadership Summit?

The Global Leadership Summit is the premier leadership event of the year. Presented in various formats (in-person, online, hybrid, cohort-based) at hundreds of partner host sites around the world, this leadership development experience is one of the most valuable and accessible leadership development opportunities available today.

Who is the Global Leadership Summit for?

The Global Leadership Summit brings together curious, growth-minded leaders and aspiring leaders—including those who don’t yet realize the value of their influence.

What kind of speakers does the Global Leadership Summit have?

The Global Leadership Summit features diverse, world-class speakers. They are leading experts spanning a wide range of fields, including ministry, business, nonprofit, entertainment and education. They will deliver fresh, actionable, and inspiring leadership insights and encouragement.

Why is it important to focus on leadership?
  • Leadership can be difficult and demanding—but it is also extremely important. Great leaders bring out the best in us. But sadly, the opposite is also true. Poor leaders can destroy potential and livelihoods.

  • Strong organizations and churches are almost always led by values-based, servant-hearted, others-oriented leaders who are focused on their personal leadership growth and the growth of their teams.

  • When people are equipped and encouraged in their leadership skills, they experience a thriving personal and professional life that not only provides more meaning and purpose in their own lives, but also empowers the best in everyone around them as well.

  • Building healthy cultures, engaging in meaningful conflict resolution, strengthening personal and professional relationships and empowering others across generational divides, among many other important goals, requires leadership skills and continued leadership growth and encouragement.

How can I attend the Summit in Chicago?

Visit the glni.org/sw2025 page to find out more, or contact your country representative to assist.

Where can I find out where my nearest Summit will be hosted?

Visit the network.glni.org page to connect with your country representative. Otherwise, contact glni@globalleadership.org and we will gladly assist.

Contact us

Want to host the Summit or bring the GLS to your community?

We would love to hear from you.
Please email glni@globalleadership.org