Following Jesus in all things is not only the best thing in the world — it is the best thing for the world. But are we ready to stand for Him in a culture that increasingly rejects His ways?
Wilberforce Academy South Africa will present its fourth annual Academy Week from January 18 to 23, 2026 at a venue near Hermanus in the Overberg region of the Western Cape. The Academy consists of a unique one-week residential programme designed to equip Christians to faithfully bear fruit for the Lord Jesus Christ in every area of life.
Applications for the 2026 Academy will be open until the November 2. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible at: https://wilberforceacademy.org.za/2026-academy-week/
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The Wilberforce Academy draws inspiration from the life of William Wilberforce who made the most of his position in the British parliament in the 1800s to advocate for social reforms that gave expression to true biblical justice — leading the movement to abolish the transatlantic slave trade, among other notable exploits. His life exemplifies the transformative power of putting a biblical Christian worldview into practice — in the power of the Holy Spirit, and as part of a Kingdom community committed to following the Lord for the glory of His name and for the good of all.
Equipping Christians for today’s world
The Wilberforce Academy continues the mission today, by playing its role in equipping the next generation of Christian leaders in public life. It aims to help Christians go beyond a mere intellectual understanding of Scripture by applying it to today’s cultural challenges.
Delegates are equipped with a biblical framework to engage with pressing socio-cultural issues such as identity politics, land reform, and the realities of a failing state.
Among a range of relevant content, the programme explores the African roots of Christianity and rediscovers how the blessings of Christendom continue to sustain our continent today.
Vocational peer groups
One of the Academy’s key features is the chance to learn and grow in vocational peer groups. Whether your vocational call is in law, politics, business, education, healthcare, science, agriculture, media, public service or ministry, you will join others in your field to reflect, pray, and sharpen one another for faithful action.
A cross-cultural, cross-vocational, international, and intergenerational community
The Wilberforce Academy is a diverse gathering of delegates from South Africa and other African nations, united by a shared commitment to bring the love, truth, justice, and hope of Jesus to every part of society.
The residential format creates a vibrant environment for teaching and fellowship, worship and devotions, application group discussions, and informal conversations that spark collaboration and lifelong friendships.
What to expect at the academy
- Clear biblical teaching on contemporary issues.
- Insightful analysis of ideologies shaping today’s society.
- Inspiring testimonies from Christians who have boldly stood for Christ despite the cost.
- Practical tools to help you speak truth and live faithfully in your sphere of influence.
- Opportunities to learn from Christians working in various vocational fields.
- Access to a growing network of believers collaborating to bring the hope of Jesus to society.
- Membership of a community that encourages and equips you for years to come.
Programme themes
- Biblical foundations for authority and culture
- Truth and the philosophical capture of socio-cultural institutions
- Culture, race, and identity
- Life and family: Value of life and God’s pattern for family
- Theology of vocation and work
The Wilberforce Collective
The academy is only the beginning. Delegates become part of the Wilberforce Collective — a growing movement of Christians equipped for faithful cultural engagement. Through refocus days, vocational communities, and regional events, the journey of equipping and collaboration continues long after the Academy Week.
In a time when the world is visibly reeling from the effects of rejecting truth (God’s Word), the need for biblically-grounded, courageous Christian leaders has never been greater.
- Date: January 18 – 23 2026
- Location: Conference venue near Hermanus, Western Cape
- Cost: R8 500 per delegate (all inclusive)
Application details:
- Apply here: https://wilberforceacademy.org.za/2026-academy-week/
- Closing date: November 2 2025 (spaces are limited — apply early!)
- Scholarships available.
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