2026 LEAP into Advocacy Hybrid Summit

A vibrant graphic announces "The LEAP into Advocacy Summit is a Wrap!" with colorful abstract brushstrokes and foliage in the background.

The 2026 LEAP into Advocacy Summit marked a significant milestone for The E.WE Foundation as our first hybrid professional learning experience. Hosted at the University of Alabama Huntsville’s College of Nursing, the Summit brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, students, advocates, caregivers, nonprofit leaders, industry representatives, and community partners to explore practical strategies for improving outcomes for individuals and families affected by rare diseases.

LEAP 2026 By the Numbers

Global Reach

  • 66 Total Registrations
  • 3 Countries Represented
    • United States
    • Kenya
    • Rwanda
  • 17 States + Washington, D.C.
  • 14 Alabama Communities Represented

Hybrid Participation

  • 35 In-Person Registrations
  • 32 In-Person Attendees
  • 31 Virtual Registrations
  • 28 Unique Virtual Participants

Professional Learning

  • 7 Educational Sessions
  • 15 Expert Speakers & Panelists
  • 6 Continuing Education Contact Hours Offered for Nurses and Social Workers
  • 16 Participants Requested Continuing Education Credit

Networking & Collaboration

Our inaugural Meet & Greet & Networking Reception welcomed:

  • 26 attendees
  • 74% of registered in-person participants

Thank You for Making History. The 2026 LEAP into Advocacy Summit marked The E.WE Foundation’s first hybrid Summit, bringing together healthcare professionals, researchers, students, advocates, caregivers, nonprofit leaders, and community partners from across the United States and around the world.

Our Global Impact (2024–2026)

What began as a virtual professional learning experience has grown into a global interdisciplinary Summit. Together, we’re building stronger systems of care, advancing health equity, and transforming knowledge into action for rare disease communities worldwide.

Since the launch of the LEAP into Advocacy Summit (2021), participants have joined us from 8 countries across 4 continents. Continents represented include Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America. Countries represented include Canada, India, Kenya, Pakistan, Rwanda, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Planning for LEAP into Advocacy Summit 2027 will begin soon. We look forward to welcoming new and returning attendees as we continue building a global interdisciplinary learning community dedicated to education, advocacy, collaboration, and innovation.