40 under 40
Accelerator
Launching in 2026, The Black Sherpa’s 40 Under 40 Accelerator will be a flagship initiative designed to spotlight and accelerate exceptional underrepresented talent across the healthcare and life sciences industries.
Each year, we’ll select 40 high-potential professionals to take part in an immersive leadership experience... blending coaching, mentorship, and strategic exposure. But this is more than a development program. It’s a bold step toward reshaping visibility, unlocking opportunity, and reimagining what leadership looks like.
Powered by The Black Sherpa Media Engine, we’ll capture and share participants' stories across video, profiles, and digital campaigns.... offering the industry a powerful counter-narrative that attracts more diverse talent and proves what’s possible when the right people are seen and supported.
Because the industry needs these stories..
now more than ever
Earning a spot in The Black Sherpa’s 40 Under 40 Accelerator is just the beginning. Successful candidates will gain exclusive access to our 12-week leadership development programme, designed to equip rising stars with the skills, mindset, and tools to lead their careers with confidence.
This high-impact, transformative experience is guided by world-class business coaches and mentors who specialize in empowering underrepresented talent to break through barriers and unlock their full potential. The programme is intense, practical, and outcome-driven—combining leadership theory with actionable strategies to accelerate career growth.
Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will:
Strengthen leadership capabilities and strategic thinking
Enhance self-awareness and emotional intelligence
Master essential career tools, from goal-setting and networking to personal branding and resilience
Cultivate a growth mindset that drives continuous personal and professional improvement
Proposed event
calendar - 2026
Q1
January: Open Nominations
The Forty Under 40 nomination period opens, inviting individuals, organizations, and peers to nominate exceptional underrepresented talent within the healthcare and life sciences industries.
March: End of Nominations
The Forty Under 40 nomination period closes, finalising the pool of nominees for the year.
Q2
April: Publication of Nominees
Official announcement and publication of the nominated individuals, celebrating their achievements and introducing the candidates to the public.
May: Voting Begins
Voting opens to the public and industry leaders, allowing the community to cast their votes for the final Forty Under 40 honorees.
June: Voting Closes
The voting period closes, and final votes are tallied to determine the 40 Under 40 winners.
Q3
July: Winners Announcement
The winners are officially announced, marking the culmination of the nomination and voting process. This event will also feature keynotes, influencer speeches, and industry highlights.
August: Development Programme Begins
The winners of the Forty Under 40 Accelerator begin their 12-week leadership development program focused on career growth, mentorship, and leadership skill-building.
Q4
November: Event Date: Awards Event Dinner
A high-profile awards gala dinner held to honor the Forty Under 40 winners. This event will feature guest speakers, networking opportunities, and recognition for the top talent across the industry.
December: Mentorship Program Launch
The launch of a structured mentorship program connecting winners with industry leaders and experts, aimed at providing guidance and growth opportunities for their leadership journey.
The Next Steps
Partnership
Help us shape the future.
Co-design the programme, mentor rising stars, and influence the next generation of diverse industry leaders.
Sponsorship
Align your brand with impact.
Celebrate excellence, boost visibility, and show your commitment to inclusive leadership at our flagship awards event.
Register to Nominate
Back the talent you believe in.
Nominate yourself or a standout colleague to join the 2026 cohort and spotlight future leaders making a difference.