The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship is now accepting applications for its 2026–2027 cohort, offering undergraduate students across the United States a unique opportunity to develop skills in community organizing, civic engagement, and human rights advocacy.

Hosted by the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Center, this year-long fellowship supports students who are deeply committed to social justice and eager to create meaningful change on their campuses and in their local communities.

About the Fellowship

The John Lewis Young Leaders Fellowship is designed to prepare students for long-term engagement in human rights and organizing work. Fellows participate in structured training, mentorship, and peer collaboration while leading a capstone project that addresses a social justice issue they care deeply about.

Throughout the fellowship, participants gain hands-on experience, practical tools, and professional guidance to strengthen their leadership capacity and prepare for future careers in advocacy, public service, or community organizing.

Fellowship Responsibilities

Selected fellows will be expected to:

• Attend a four-day in-person fellowship retreat

• Participate in monthly cohort meetings

• Meet regularly with RFK Human Rights staff for one-on-one mentorship

• Design and implement a capstone project focused on human rights or social justice

• Deliver a final capstone presentation at the end of the fellowship year

Key Dates

• Application deadline: February 27, 2026 (11:59 PM)

• Fellowship retreat: June 11–14, 2026

• Fellowship start: August 10, 2026

• Capstone proposal due: September 13, 2026

• Fellowship end date: May 30, 2027

Scroll down for more details and click on the official link attached to apply for this opportunity.