The Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship programme of the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). It brings accomplished young leaders from across Sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for academic and leadership development, while providing opportunities to build professional networks and strengthen their capacity to contribute to their communities.
Who Can Apply?
The Fellowship is designed for young African leaders who demonstrate leadership, professional achievement, and a commitment to making a positive contribution to their communities and countries. Fellows are generally between 25 and 35 years old.
What the Fellowship Offers
Selected Fellows participate in academic and leadership training in the United States and become part of a growing network of Mandela Washington Fellows across Africa. The programme supports leadership development, professional connections and collaboration across sectors.
Eligibility
Applicants should:
- Be a citizen and resident of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Be between 25 and 35 years old.
- Demonstrate leadership and accomplishment in their professional, community or civic work.
- Have experience and interest in their selected professional sector.
- Demonstrate a commitment to contributing to their community and country.
Programme Areas
The Fellowship supports leadership development across areas including Business, Civic Engagement and Public Management.
Application
Applications are submitted online through the official Mandela Washington Fellowship application process.
Application status: Check the official Fellowship website for the current application window and deadline.
Organiser: U.S. Department of State
Administrator: IREX
Programme: Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)