FULLY FUNDED FELLOWSHIP FOR YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERS 2027

FULLY FUNDED FELLOWSHIP FOR YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERS 2027

AFS Youth Assembly is inviting applications for the third edition of the Sir Cyril Taylor Young African Leaders Program, supported by the Sir Cyril Taylor Charitable Foundation.

This 12-month fully funded program is designed to empower outstanding young changemakers from Sub-Saharan Africa with leadership development, capacity building, mentorship, resources and seed funding to implement social impact projects that promote sustainable development in their communities.

The program will select 10 young African leaders who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to community development and an interest in addressing global challenges through locally driven solutions.

Successful applicants will join a growing network of young leaders working to advance sustainable development and create meaningful change across Africa.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be between 18 and 35 years old.
2. Be from a Sub-Saharan African country.
3. Demonstrate leadership qualities or have a proven record of leadership experience.
4. Show potential for personal and professional growth.
5. Possess a valid, unexpired international passport.
6. Demonstrate an interest in global affairs, sustainable development and youth issues.
7. Have intermediate-level proficiency in English.
8. Be available to attend the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in August 2027.

Applicants who are already leading social impact projects related to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are particularly encouraged to apply.

PROGRAM BENEFITS

The selected fellows will receive support throughout the 12-month program, including the following opportunities.

1. Fully funded participation in the program’s activities.
2. Enrollment in the AFS Global Competence Certificate Program to develop intercultural skills and competencies.
3. Participation in preparatory workshops ahead of the Youth Assembly.
4. Attendance at the AFS Youth Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland, in August 2027.
5. Covered travel and accommodation expenses for participation in the Youth Assembly.
6. Participation in the Effect+ in the Community intensive workshop in Switzerland.
7. Access to leadership development, mentorship, learning resources and international networking opportunities.
8. Seed funding to develop and implement community-based social impact projects.
9. Six months of mentorship and support from the AFS Youth Assembly Impact Network to help implement their projects.

COMMUNITY IMPACT REQUIREMENT

After returning to their home countries, selected leaders will be expected to replicate the Effect+ in the Community workshop for at least 100 young people in their local communities.

They will also initiate and implement their own social impact projects using the seed funding provided. Projects should align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable, community-level development.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: November 19, 2026, at 23:59 UTC.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested and eligible young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa should visit the official program page to review the application details and submit their applications.

APPLY HERE

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Early applications are strongly encouraged because visa processing may take several months. Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applicants are also advised that the use of artificial intelligence to write application narratives is highly discouraged. Ensure that your application reflects your genuine experiences, leadership journey, personal motivation and community impact.