The Mandela Washington Fellowship is offering up to 700 young African leaders the chance to participate in a fully funded executive-style program in the United States during the summer of 2025. This fellowship, part of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), provides an unparalleled opportunity to build leadership skills and empower participants to make impactful changes in their sectors and communities.
About the Fellowship
The Mandela Washington Fellowship covers all expenses, including travel, accommodation, and meals, ensuring that Fellows can fully immerse themselves in this life-changing experience. The program includes academic coursework, leadership training, and opportunities to collaborate with U.S. citizens and other Fellows. The Fellowship also focuses on fostering economic growth, enhancing democratic governance, and promoting peace and security across Africa and the United States.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Mandela Washington Fellowship 2024, applicants must:
- Be between the ages of 25 and 35 as of the application deadline (September 10, 2024). However, exceptional applicants aged 21-24 may also be considered.
- Not be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Be eligible for a United States J-1 visa.
- Not be employees or immediate family members of U.S. Government employees.
- Be proficient in English, with additional guidance available for deaf applicants.
- Be citizens and residents of one of the eligible African countries, including Angola, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Ghana, and others listed in the original article.
- Remain in their home country at the beginning of the Fellowship in June 2025.
- Not have participated in the Mandela Washington Fellowship before.
Program Benefits
Fellows will:
- Attend a six-week Leadership Institute at a U.S. college or university, where they will share experiences and learn from others.
- Explore industries beyond their daily work and expand their expertise.
- Participate in a Summit with other young African leaders.
- Engage with U.S. Government, civic, and business leaders.
- Gain new connections, skills, and ideas to strengthen their work.
- Join a continental and global Alumni Network to collaborate on innovative solutions to common challenges.
Selection Criteria
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Proven leadership and accomplishments in business, civic engagement, or public service.
- Commitment to public or community service, volunteerism, or mentorship.
- Ability to work cooperatively in diverse groups and respect for others’ opinions.
- Strong social and communication skills.
- Energetic, positive attitude.
- Knowledge and experience in the preferred sector or track.
- Commitment to return to Africa and apply leadership skills for the benefit of their country or community.
How to Apply
To apply for the Mandela Washington Fellowship 2024, follow these steps:
- Visit the fellowship application page and click on “Apply Now.”
- Complete the application form and upload all necessary documents.
- After submission, independent readers will review all eligible applications.
- Semi-finalists will be interviewed by U.S. embassies or consulates in their home countries.
- Selected finalists must attend a mandatory Pre-Fellowship Orientation in their home country in Africa.
Application Deadline: September 10, 2024
For more information and to apply, visit the Mandela Washington Fellowship application page.
Take the next step in your leadership journey with the Mandela Washington Fellowship. Apply today and join a network of young African leaders committed to making a difference in their communities.
