MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP FOR YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERS 2027
OPPORTUNITY ALERT
MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP FOR YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERS 2027
PROGRAMME: MANDELA WASHINGTON FELLOWSHIP
INITIATIVE: YOUNG AFRICAN LEADERS INITIATIVE YALI
APPLICATION OPENS: 22 SEPTEMBER 2026
ELIGIBLE REGION: SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA
AGE RANGE: 25–35 YEARS
ABOUT THE FELLOWSHIP
The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship programme of the U.S. Government’s Young African Leaders Initiative YALI.
Established in 2014, the Fellowship has brought nearly 7,800 young leaders from every country in Sub-Saharan Africa to the United States for academic and leadership training.
The Fellowship is designed for accomplished young leaders who have demonstrated leadership, innovation and a record of making a positive impact in their communities and countries.
2027 FELLOWSHIP TRACKS
Eligible applicants may apply to ONE of the following tracks:
- BUSINESS AND TRADE
For young African leaders working to strengthen entrepreneurship, business development, trade and economic opportunities.
- EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
For leaders working with innovative and emerging technologies to address challenges and create opportunities across Africa.
- GOVERNANCE AND SECURITY
For leaders engaged in governance, civic leadership, public service and security-related issues.
FELLOWSHIP COMPONENTS
LEADERSHIP INSTITUTES
Fellows participate in six-week Leadership Institutes hosted by U.S. colleges and universities.
During the Institutes, Fellows receive academic and leadership training while engaging with their host communities and exchanging knowledge and best practices.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT EXPERIENCES
Fellows may apply for Professional Development Experiences PDEs with private, public and nonprofit organisations for up to six weeks.
These experiences provide opportunities for Fellows and U.S. host organisations to exchange knowledge, discuss shared challenges and broaden their professional perspectives.
RECIPROCAL EXCHANGES
U.S. citizens can apply to implement projects in Sub-Saharan African countries and continue collaborative work with Mandela Washington Fellowship Alumni.
These partnerships are intended to build lasting professional relationships, expand networks and markets, and promote mutual understanding.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ALUMNI
Fellowship Alumni continue to benefit from professional development, networking and collaboration opportunities after completing the Fellowship.
These opportunities may be delivered both in person and virtually, with support from the U.S. Department of State and affiliated partners.
WHO ARE THE FELLOWS?
The Fellowship is intended for accomplished young African leaders between 25 and 35 years old who have established records of leadership, innovation and positive impact in their communities and countries.
APPLICATION
Applications for the 2027 Mandela Washington Fellowship will open on:
22 SEPTEMBER 2026
Eligible applicants should review the official programme information and track requirements before submitting an application.
LEARN MORE AND APPLY
Mandela Washington Fellowship Official Website
IMPORTANT NOTICE
The application opening date provided is 22 September 2026. The specific application deadline and detailed eligibility requirements should be confirmed on the official Fellowship website once the 2027 application cycle opens.
