Applications are now open for the Emerging Leaders Foundation (ELF) Africa iLEAD Fellowship Program 2026, a five-month leadership development programme designed for young people who are committed to personal growth, career development, leadership and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The iLEAD Fellowship is a values-based leadership programme that aims to equip young people with practical skills, knowledge and experiences that can support their personal, professional and civic development. Through structured leadership training, mentorship, coaching and practical experiences, Fellows will have the opportunity to strengthen their leadership potential and become more conscious of their role in addressing challenges within their communities and workplaces.

The 2026 programme will run from August to December 2026 and will feature seven modules delivered through a combination of residential and virtual sessions. Participants will engage in leadership development activities, mentorship, coaching and practical assignments designed to help them apply what they learn to real-world situations. The programme also places emphasis on life skills, civic consciousness and workplace readiness, providing participants with competencies that extend beyond traditional academic education.

The fellowship is open to young people aged 18 to 25 from Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda. Applicants can come from a range of educational and community backgrounds, including university students, college students, TVET students and community leaders. Eligible applicants should demonstrate a commitment to personal development, career growth and leadership, as well as an interest in contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Virtual fellowship sessions will take place every Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. EAT. Applicants must have access to a suitable digital device and reliable internet connection to participate in the online components of the programme. Selected Fellows are expected to attend all required training and mentorship sessions and participate fully in the capstone project.

The iLEAD Fellowship provides young East Africans with an opportunity to develop practical leadership capabilities, receive mentorship and coaching, strengthen their workplace readiness and gain experience that can support their future careers and community engagement. Participants will also have the opportunity to connect with other emerging young leaders from across the region and apply their learning to practical challenges.

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