30 Years of IAF
Exhibition: Celebrating 30 Years of the International Academy for Leadership
To mark the 30th anniversary of the International Academy for Leadership (IAF), we are pleased to present a special exhibition at the Theodor Heuss Academy in Gummersbach. This exhibition features 12 carefully curated images, each telling the story of IAF’s history, work, impact, and achievements over the past three decades. From its founding to its global influence, these pictures offer a visual journey through the Academy’s pivotal role in empowering leaders, promoting liberal values, and fostering democratic change.
Each image is accompanied by a QR code, allowing visitors to access additional content and information about the IAF’s work, projects, and milestones directly from our website. This makes the exhibition not only an experience for those visiting the Academy in Gummersbach but also accessible to alumni, supporters, and friends of the IAF around the world.
We invite you to explore the exhibition both in person and virtually, celebrating 30 years of dedication to advancing liberal democracy and empowering leaders globally.
1) About
Dive into the rich history of the International Academy for Leadership and trace its journey from its founding to becoming a global force for promoting democracy and liberal values.
2) Foundation
Building the Foundation for a Global Network of Leaders
3) Facilitators

Passionate, expert facilitators turn learning into transformation—crafting seamless journeys that spark growth, connection, and the spirit of liberalism on the Magic Mountain of Gummersbach.
4) Berlin Meetings and Conferences

The Berlin Meetings have served as a dynamic platform for discussion and exchange. Explore how these conferences have brought together global thought leaders and policy makers.
5) Project Offices

6) Alumni

Discover the powerful network of IAF alumni who continue to drive change in their countries. Their stories of success highlight the lasting impact of IAF’s programs.
7) Impact

Witness the tangible impact IAF has made over the past 30 years. From fostering democratic processes to empowering leaders, see how the Academy’s work is shaping the world.
8) The IAF Song

The IAF-Song, written by one of our facilitators, was inspired by a quote from a seminar participant. This unique song reflects the spirit of the Academy and its mission, capturing the essence of leadership, freedom, and the impact of our work.
9) E-learning

IAF uses digital channels to connect participants and alumni from around the world. These online opportunities foster both learning and networking, strengthening a global community of leaders.
10) Methods

Learn about the diverse methods IAF uses to train and empower leaders. From interactive workshops to immersive experiences, these approaches make a lasting impact.
11) Topics

Dive into the core themes of IAF’s work, covering a wide range of topics critical to leadership, democracy, human rights, and liberal values. Explore how these issues are addressed.
12) Visiting Programs

IAF offers tailor-made visiting programs for high-ranking international delegations traveling through Germany. These programs provide opportunities to meet counterparts and engage in meaningful exchanges on leadership, democracy, and liberal values.