2027 Washington
U.S. Government / Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
Deadline
Sunday, October 10, 2027 at 12:00 AM (383 days left)Posted
Monday, September 21, 2026Job Title
2027 Washington
Organization
U.S. Government / Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
Location
United States (Remote application; six-week in-person institute at U.S. college/university)
Contract Type
Fellowship, 6 weeks
Salary / Stipend
Fully funded
Role Overview
The Mandela Washington Fellowship is a prestigious leadership development and professional exchange program for accomplished young African leaders aged 25–35. Participants engage in a six-week intensive Leadership Institute at a U.S. college or university, combining academic learning, professional development, networking with peers and U.S. institutions, and cultural exchange. Fellows select one of three tracks: Business and Trade, Emerging Technologies, or Governance and Security.
Requirements
- •Aged 25–35 at time of application (exceptional applicants aged 21–24 may be considered)
- •Citizen and resident of an eligible Sub-Saharan African country
- •Proficient in English
- •Not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- •Eligible to receive a U.S. J-1 visa
- •Not an employee or immediate family member of U.S. Government employee
- •Have not previously participated in the Mandela Washington Fellowship
- •Demonstrated leadership and accomplishment in professional, entrepreneurial, civic, or community work
- •Commitment to community or public service
- •Relevant experience in chosen track (Business and Trade, Emerging Technologies, or Governance and Security)
- •Clear goals for how Fellowship contributes to current work and future plans
- •Commitment to using skills and experience to contribute to African communities and countries
Application Deadline
10/10/2027
Important Application Note
Applications open September 22, 2026. Submit online through the official Mandela Washington Fellowship application portal at mandelawashingtonfellowship.org. Application is free of charge; do not pay anyone to submit on your behalf.
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